§ 23 and 25. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked the Secretary of State for War (1) whether his new perfect aeroplane has met with an accident, and, if so, what was the cause; and whether the machine is really in its experimental stage; and (2) whether his statement that the new Army aeroplane was the best in the world was made on the authority of his technical advisers, and whether they still adhere to that description?
§ Colonel SEELYThe hon. Gentleman in this question and in Question 25, to which I will reply at the same time, is presumably alluding to a new machine of whose successful speed tests I informed the House on the introduction of Army Estimates. This aeroplane is temporarily out of use owing to a breakage in the engine. The description given of it was based on information supplied to me by my principal technical adviser.
§ Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSMay I ask whether the machine is not in an experimental stage at the present time?
§ Colonel SEELYIt has achieved the feats which I have described to the House. I should be very glad if the hon. Gentleman would himself take a flight in it.
§ Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSDoes the right hon. Gentleman want to get rid of me?
§ Colonel SEELYOh, no.
§ 24. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked how much money was spent in the year ending 31st March, 1913, in wages of the actual pilots, the purchase of aeroplanes, and the Royal Aircraft Factory, respectively?
§ Colonel SEELYIt is estimated that the sum of £16,000 was expended in the year ended 31st March, 1913, on the emoluments of officers and others qualified as pilots, £100,800 was expended on the purchase of aeroplanes, including engines and spare parts, and £117,000 on the Royal Aircraft Factory.
§ 27. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked what proportion of the sum of £190,000 included in this year's Estimate for aviation stores and material is to be allotted for the purchase of aeroplanes?
§ Colonel SEELYI am not at present in a position to give any information on this subject.
§ Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSWhen does the right hon. Gentleman think that he will be able to give that information?
§ Colonel SEELYI could not say when I shall be able to given the information, but I will give it in due course.
§ 45. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that there is anxiety in the country as to the number and efficiency of the aeroplanes belonging to the Royal Army Flying Corps; and whether, having regard to the refusal of the Secretary of State for War to give further details of these machines, he will consent to the appointment of a small Committee, independent of the present officials, to make such investigations as would reassure the public?
§ The PRIME MINISTERThis matter is receiving the continued attention of His Majesty's Government, who are able to avail themselves of the best expert advice on the subject. I see no reason for the appointment of the Committee suggested.
§ 26. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked the Secretary of State for War whether he has yet mounted any high-elevation guns for use against aircraft on the vulnerable portions of our coast-line; and, if not, how he proposes to secure us against foreign aircraft?
§ Colonel SEELYIt is not considered desirable to publish any information on this subject.