§ 16. Sir J. D. REESasked the Under-Secretary of State for India whether he can give the House any information regarding the establishment of an aeronautical establishment for India; can he say how many aeroplanes are in active commission, what is the personnel, and where the establishment is situated; whether any ruling chiefs have assisted the Government in this behalf; and up to what standard the Indian authorities propose to work?
§ Mr. C. ROBERTSAn aviation school has been established at Sitapur. The present personnel includes a commandant and three other Flying officers, with the necessary medical and subordinate staff. There are three aeroplanes, and five others have been ordered. The immediate object is to gain experience in aviation under Indian conditions, with a view to the eventual expansion of the school as a training establishment. One ruling Chief—the Maharaja of Rewa—has generously presented an aeroplane.
§ Sir G. SCOTT ROBERTSONCan the hon. Gentleman state the cost of this establishment?
§ Mr. C. ROBERTSNo, but I think I can obtain it.