HC Deb 02 May 1911 vol 25 cc214-5
Mr. SANDYS

asked how many officers of the air battalion were now in possession of pilot's certificates; and what proportion of the battalion was stationed at Farnborough and Salisbury Plain, respectively?

Colonel SEELY

Two officers on the strength of the air battalion hold pilot's certificates and four officers attached on probation also held certificates. No portion of the air battalion is at present stationed on Salisbury Plain, but during this month some portion may be in camp there.

Mr. ARTHUR LEE

Can the right hon. Gentleman say where these officers obtained their certificates, and whether they obtained them at their own cost or at the cost of the War Office?

Colonel SEELY

I cannot answer that off hand. I believe they are the ordinary international certificates. I will inquire.

Mr. SANDYS

asked what sum of the total of £133,000 provided for aeronautics in the Estimates was to be allocated to the purchase or construction of aeroplanes; whether the additional rate of pay granted to officers engaged in aeroplane work commenced only after a probationary period of from three to six months; and whether officers who had already obtained pilot's certificates were entitled to the increased rate of pay without the probationary period?

Colonel SEELY

The total provision in Vote IX. for the manufacture, purchase, and repair of aircraft is £85,300. Purchase or construction of aeroplanes will be provided from this item, but it is premature to say at present to what amounts. The additional rate of pay for officers will commence on appointment to the air battalion after the probationary period. This applies to all officers, whether they have obtained pilot's certificates or not.

Mr. SANDYS

asked whether all officers who go up as passengers in æroplanes for the purpose of making observations belonged to the air battalion, or whether other officers were also being trained for this work?

Colonel SEELY

It is proposed to train staff officers as observers to be carried as passengers in æroplanes. Such officers will not belong to the air battalion.

Major ANSTRUTHER-GRAY

Will these officers be insured against accidents?

Colonel SEELY

I will consider that.

An HON. MEMBER

Will the æroplanes be insured also?