HC Deb 02 August 1911 vol 29 cc362-3
Sir JOHN LONSDALE

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty if he is aware of the results of experiments conducted in France with regard to the detection of submarines by observers in aeroplanes, and communication between aeroplanes and battleships by wireless telegraphy; and if he will state what progress is being made by the Admiralty in training officers as aviators for scouting and offensive purposes?

Mr. McKENNA

We have at present no information beyond what has appeared in the Press on this subject. As regards the second part of the question, four officers are just completing a six months' course of instruction in aviation at East-church. The question of commencing another course is now under the consideration of the Board. The training so far given has been of a general nature only.

Mr. LEE

Will the right hon. Gentleman take into consideration the making of a large increase in the number of those officers trained as aviators, following the example of the War Office?

Mr. McKENNA

We have not the same requirements as the War Office and I should not be able to interpret those requirements at a moment's notice. But we are considering the question of the requirements of the Service.