§ 24. Mr. Simmondsasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he can make a statement with regard to the loss of the flying-boat "Clare"?
§ Sir A. SinclairThe flying-boat "Clare," belonging to and operated by the British Overseas Airways Corporation, was, unfortunately, lost from causes other than enemy action while on passage from West Africa to the United Kingdom with all on board numbering thirteen passengers and six crew. An investigation is being held into the causes of the accident, and as soon as a report is available I will consider whether a further statement can be made. I am sure the House would wish to express its sympathy with the relatives of those who have lost their lives.
§ Mr. SimmondsWould my right hon. Friend bear in mind that a number of the aircraft of British Overseas Airways are much over age, and would he, therefore, see whether some action can be taken to increase the number of modern aircraft available to the Corporation?
§ Sir A. SinclairI can assure my hon. Friend that this point has been for some time very much in my mind, and that such action as he has in mnid has already been taken.