HC Deb 22 April 1913 vol 52 c241
Captain MURRAY

I desire to ask the Secretary of State for War a question, of which I have given him private notice, namely: Whether his attention has been called to a public statement made by Lord Montagu of Beaulieu that the War Office is in possession of only forty-three aeroplanes, instead of 101, as stated by him; and whether this statement is accurate?

Colonel SEELY

Yes, Sir, my attention was at once called to the statement. Lord Montagu has written me the following letter:—

"21st April, 1913.

Dear Seely,—I was very glad to receive your invitation to come to the War Office to-day, and to inspect there the documents supplied by your official advisers, and to meet the General Officer who is charged with the administration of the Royal Flying Corps.

I am now fully convinced that the number of aeroplanes you have publicly stated represents those really available. I am glad to know that the number is at the present date, in excess of the 101 you stated on March 19th were then in the possession of the War Office.

I quite appreciate the necessity for secrecy in these matters, and understand how misapprehensions may have arisen, and regret that I gave publicity to erroneous figures.

I am glad the matter has now been cleared up as regards numbers, but you will. I know, allow me to continue to urge upon the Government and upon the public in general the absolute necessity for better provision for military and naval aviation, especially in matters pertaining to housing and transport.

I shall be glad if you could read this letter to the House of Commons at the first possible opportunity.

Yours sincerely,

(Signed) MONTAGU OP BEAULIEU."

I trust, Sir, that this complete statement may put an end to reflections on the good faith not merely of myself, but of the distinguished officers and public officials on whom, as everyone knows, I must largely rely in giving figures to this House. At the same time, the House will permit me to acknowledge most warmly the characteristically prompt, frank, and straight forward manner in which Lord Montagu has dealt with this question.