HC Deb 28 November 1911 vol 32 cc187-9
MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINE

asked (1) whether it was intended to have a British test or competition for foreign aeroplanes before purchasing them for the British Army; and (2) whether it was intended to enter British and foreign aeroplanes for the same tests and competitions in competition against each other before purchasing for the British Army?

Colonel SEELY

I will reply to the Noble Lord's two questions together. Under the proposed prize competition all aeroplanes submitted for trial will be subjected to the same tests, but this competition is for prizes and not for orders to be subsequently placed.

MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINE

Does not the right hon. Gentleman think that the French Government tests would be sufficient for the aeroplanes bought in France for the British Army, and that it would be better to use up the prize money for British aeroplanes to encourage our industries, instead of subsidising an already subsidised industry in France?

Colonel SEELY

Probably it would be better not to answer any questions on this point until we are able to lay before the House the details of the proposed competition.

Mr. FELL

asked if either of the dirigible balloons at Aldershot were ready for use; if it was proposed to practise with them in the same way as was being done in Germany and France with dirigible balloons; if there were any officers and men trained for the use of them; and if they had had any lessons on the Continent in the handling of these machines?

Colonel SEELY

One airship, the "Beta," is ready for use, and practice will be carried out when the conditions are favourable. There are officers and men trained for the use of dirigible balloons. The reply to the last part of the question is in the negative.

Mr. W. PEEL

asked whether aeroplanes manufactured in this country had been subjected to any tests by the War Office for the purpose of ascertaining the efficiency and durability of such machines for military purposes in comparison to those manufactured abroad; and, if so, whether it was the intention of the Government to place an order for a number of these machines of British manufacture, thereby assisting a new industry and enabling mechanics engaged in work of this nature to stop in their own country?

Colonel SEELY

Any pattern of aeroplane, whether manufactured abroad or in this country, which is considered suitable for military purposes and which is desired by the Air Battalion is considered for purchase. Certain machines have already been purchased and others are under consideration. The immediate object of the Government is to ascertain, by trial, which pattern is most suitable to Army requirements, and the orders contemplated at the present stage are not important enough materially to affect employment in the manner suggested in the last part of the question.

MARQUESS of TULLIBARDINE

Will the choice lie with the commanding officer?

Colonel SEELY

Not finally.

Mr. PEEL

asked whether, in view of the recently declared intention of His Majesty's Government to purchase a number of aeroplanes successful in the French military trials at Rheims, His Majesty's advisers could give some assurance that manufacturers of aeroplanes in this country would have an opportunity of supplying their own Government with machines which were known to be suitable for military purposes?

Colonel SEELY

I am not aware of any such declared intention of His Majesty's Government.