§ 15. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked whether any, and, if so, how many permanent officials have been appointed in the Royal Flying Corps, in accordance with Clause 51 of the Monoplane Report, for the purpose of inspecting and reporting on the aeroplanes at regular intervals?
§ Mr. TENNANTIt is considered that the appointment of officers with the sole duty of inspecting aeroplanes might lead to a divided responsibility and, therefore, to less efficient inspection. The officers commanding Squadrons and Flights are held responsible for the fitness of the machines under their charge, and careful and minute inspections are constantly carried out by them.
§ Mr. LEECan the hon. Gentleman say whether a minute and complete cross-examination was made by the officer in charge of the aeroplane which was wrecked at Montrose with the loss of two lives?
§ Mr. TENNANTI believe that is so.
§ 16. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked the Secretary for War whether he has yet appointed an inspector of engines in the Royal Flying Corps in accordance with Clause 52 of the Monoplane Report; and, if so, what is his name, rank, and salary?
§ Mr. TENNANTThe reply is in the negative.
§ 17. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked what were the official numbers of the aeroplanes which flew from Farnborough to Montrose; and how many days did they, respectively, take in such flight?
§ Mr. TENNANTI will furnish the hon. Gentleman with the numbers of the aeroplanes, but I cannot undertake to furnish him with the rest of the detailed information he requires.
§ Mr. TENNANTIt is not considered desirable to give that information.