§ 17. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked the Secretary of State for War how many of the monoplanes which were on the list of efficient machines in July last are now included in the War Office lists as efficient, and when were the others removed from such list?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Colonel Seely)Twenty-eight have been struck off at various dates since the 1st July. One remains on the list as efficient.
§ 18. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked when the decision was arrived at to transfer the airships from the Army to the Navy; and whether such transfer met with the approval of the Army Council and the officers of the Flying Corps?
§ Colonel SEELYThe decision of the Army Council referred to was taken in November last and all the considerations involved were, of course, reviewed before the orders were given.
§ 19. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked what arrangements have been made regarding the future of those Army officers who were engaged in the airship squadron of the Royal Flying Corps?
§ Colonel SEELYAll the officers referred to except one have agreed to be transferred to the Naval Wing. The exact conditions of their employment are still under consideration, but the hon. Member may rest assured that they will not lose either in seniority, rank or grading.
§ Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSIs there any chance of a Supplementary Estimate being put down in order that we may discuss, the policy of this important change?
§ Colonel SEELYI think there will be an early opportunity of discussing the whole matter.
§ 20. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked the Secretary of State for War, whether he still adheres to his oft-expressed view that the Royal Aircraft Factory is to be used for experimental purposes only; and how many aeroplanes are now being manufactured there?
§ Colonel SEELYThe Royal Aircraft Factory is now making 24 aeroplanes of a special type.