28. Major HOPEasked how many aeroplanes there are at the present moment in the squadron which recently flew to Montrose which are fit and safe to attempt such a flight in peace time; and what motor or other transport for carrying spare parts and executing small repairs is now permanently in charge of this squadron?
§ Colonel SEELYI am informed that only one of these aeroplanes required overhauling, involving a few hours' work. The detachment has two lorries and three lighter cars at its disposal. I have answered this question since it has been put down, but would venture to point out that it is considered undesirable as a general rule to indicate the position of our flying squadrons and the machines in their possession.
29. Mr. ALAN SYKESasked the Secretary of State for War whether, in view of the number of aeroplanes now available for military purposes, he will arrange to send some of them round the Territorial camps this summer so as to give a practical demonstration to the Territorials of the capabilities of this new branch of the Army?
§ Colonel SEELYThis suggestion shall receive full consideration.
§ 31. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked the Secretary of State for War whether the decision not to adopt large airships of the Zeppelin or other similar type was made by the Committee of Imperial Defence, the Cabinet, or the War Office; and whether, in either case, there were reports from his military advisers?
§ Colonel SEELYThe answer to this question, so far as it refers to War Office action, is in the affirmative.
§ 32. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked how many of the 123 officers appointed to the Royal Flying Corps have ever flown a test equal in severity to that necessary to secure the French military brevet, which calls for a flight over a triangular course of at least 150 kilometres in extent, and which is held by over 200 French military pilots?
§ Colonel SEELYForty-seven officers have passed the course laid down by the Central Flying School, which, as I have previously stated, is a very exacting test. About thirty more officers will have passed the same test in the course of next month.
§ 33. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked what was the number of aeroplanes actually in the hands of the squadron commanders, flight commanders, and pilots officially gazetted as flying officers of Squadrons Nos. 2, 3, and 4, Military Wing, Royal Flying Corps, respectively, on 19th March, 1913; how many of these aeroplanes were on that day in a fit condition to have started at one hour's notice on a flight exceeding an hour's duration; and how many in such condition were then capable of exceeding a speed of sixty miles an hour in still air?
§ Colonel SEELYI must refer the hon. Gentleman to my reply to a similar question put by him on the 13th instant, to which I have nothing to add.