§ 8. Mr. Wedgwoodasked the Secretary of State for Air whether it is the rule or custom to hold an)' inquiry into cases where pilot or crew abandon an aeroplane in the air, either by reason that it is no longer navigable or that landing would be too dangerous?
§ Sir A. SinclairA Court of Inquiry is held in the cases referred to by my right hon. Friend, except that: —
- (a) If the Air Officer Commanding considers that the circumstances of the accident are sufficiently straightforward for one responsible officer to reach a finding, he may appoint an Investigating Officer in lieu of a Court of Inquiry.
- (b) If the Air Officer Commanding is satisfied that there is no doubt what-
162 ever as to the cause and circumstances of the accident, he may call for a full report from the Commanding Officer concerned in lieu of a more detailed report by an Investigating Officer or by a Court of Inquiry. - (c) A Court of Inquiry or an investigation is not held if a summary of evidence is taken as a preliminary to a Court-Martial when matters of discipline are involved.
§ Mr. ThorneIs any investigation going on in connection with the unfortunate accident at Blackpool?
§ Sir A. SinclairYes, Sir.