HC Deb 17 May 1909 vol 5 cc6-7
Mr. FELL

asked the Secretary of State if he can state the number of dirigible balloons constructed or in course of construction by Germany at the present time; and how much has been voted to be expended on them by the German Government?

Mr. HALDANE

It is believed that seven dirigible balloons have been constructed and that five are under construction. £25,000 appears to have been allotted for airships in 1907, and £107,500 in 1908, but on this point it is not easy to obtain precise or complete information from the published estimates.

Mr. FELL

When does the right hon. Gentleman propose to ask Parliament for some somewhat similar power to that demanded by the German Government to construct, at any rate, one of these large dirigibles similar to those in use in France and Germany?

Mr. HALDANE

That question does not arise out of the question on the Paper. I shall be prepared to give full information when the time comes.

Mr. MYER

Will the right hon. Gentleman, in any Report he may circulate, tell us about a certain dirigible supposed to be hovering about our coast?