§ 60. Captain Pluggeasked the Secretary of State for Air what steps are being taken to design and produce large multiengined flying boats for post-war civil aviation.
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Air (Captain Harold Balfour)Design and production of military aircraft must have first call on the resources of the aircraft industry at the present time but a large multi-engined flying boat, the Shetland, is being developed and is due to make its first flight in a few weeks. It is hoped that trials will show whether or not it can be adapted to meet the requirements of post-war civil air transport.
§ Mr. Edgar GranvilleWill my right hon. and gallant Friend bear in mind that heavy flying boats with a low pay load are obsolescent for trans-Atlantic work, and much less efficient than land-.based aircraft for the purpose?
§ Captain BalfourBut this is not necessarily for trans-Atlantic work, or necessarily a question of a large flying boat with a small pay load. It may be a big flying boat with a big pay load.
§ Captain PluggeIs it not a fact that, since the British Empire provides so many beautiful harbours and waterways, ft should study closely the use of the large flying boat?
§ Captain BalfourI suggest that my hon. and gallant Friend should discuss that technical matter with my hon. Friend the Member for Eye (Mr. Granville) and endeavour to reconcile their views.