§ 48. Sir FREDERICK CAWLEYasked the Prime Minister whether, in view of the need for the reorganisation of the Air Service, he can fix an early date for the discussion of the matter?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI am afraid I cannot yet fix a day for this discussion. The date must depend upon the progress of the Military Service Bill.
§ Sir A. MARKHAMWhy have four lawyers been nominated out of six on this body?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI understand that, in view of the possibility of legal proceedings, it is very desirable that lawyers should be nominated.
§ Mr. BILLINGIs it not advisable at least to invite some aeronautical experts to join?
§ The PRIME MINISTERTwo members of the Committee are civil engineers of eminence.
§ Mr. BILLINGAre those civil engineers acquainted in any degree with the requirements of a flying machine, or whether or not a flying machine designed by this country is fit to meet those of the enemy?
§ The PRIME MINISTERNo engineer in this country excels Sir Charles Parsons in his knowledge of these things.
§ Mr. BILLING(by Private Notice) asked the Prime Minister whether, seeing that the Compulsion Bill is now practically settled, he will at once name a day for the promised Air Debate, if necessary following the course adopted with regard to the Daylight Saving Bill, and setting aside next Monday for that purpose?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI have already answered that question. As soon as the Military Service Bill is disposed of that can be decided.
§ Mr. BILLINGWill the right hon. Gentleman give us an assurance that immediately after the Compulsion Bill is passed the question of the Air Service will be considered?
§ Mr. L. JONESReferring to the motion on the paper for the suspension of the eleven o'clock rule, is it intended to sit late to-night?
§ The PRIME MINISTERNot too late.
§ Sir A. MARKHAMIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that the hon. Member for Derby said that the Compulsion Bill would be taken on Friday; is that so?
§ The PRIME MINISTERwas understood to dissent.
§ Mr. BILLINGIf there is no other business on Monday, will the Air Debate be taken?