§ 17. Mr. SANDYSasked whether, in view of the official refusal to give any information whatever with reference to the number of aircraft in the possession of the War Department, it is now the policy of the Government to withhold all such information from the House of Commons; and, if so, on what grounds this decision has been arrived at?
§ Colonel SEELYIt is not the custom to publish detailed statistics of the present strength of personnel or materiel of the British Army. I hope to make a general statement on Thursday.
§ Mr. SANDYSIn view of the fact that it is the policy of the Government to withhold information as to the number of aircraft in possession of the War Department, are we to understand the figures the right hon. Gentleman gave the House on 19th March were not, as a matter of fact, correct?
§ Colonel SEELYIt is the policy of the Government to withhold from the House no information that can properly be given to it, and I may say we have given more complete information to this House than has been given to the Assemblies in any foreign countries. The fullest information upon this and all other matters that can be given in the public interest will be given.
§ Mr. HARRY LAWSONCan the right hon. Gentleman issue a Return before he makes a statement, giving in their different classes the aircraft of the country?
§ Colonel SEELYYes, Sir. I am glad the question is asked, because I propose to issue a Paper giving the fullest information possible, and such information as we have in regard to aeronautics.