HC Deb 18 April 1917 vol 92 cc1653-4
2. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

asked what are the air casualties in killed, wounded, and missing in each of the last six months in the Royal Naval Air Service?

Dr. MACNAMARA

We, do not think it altogether desirable to give the particulars asked for. In the event, however, of a Secret Session being held, I imagine my hon. Friend would wish to take the opportunity of raising the matter.

Mr. PEMBERTON BILLING

Will the right hon. Gentleman state to the House why it is undesirable to give the figures?

6. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

asked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether the Army Council has arrived at any decision to alter their predecessor's policy of giving particulars of air casualties; if so, what are the reasons; and, if not, whether he will give a list for each of the last six months stating the air casualties in killed, wounded, and missing on the Western front?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for WAR (Mr. Macpherson)

The answer to the first part of my hon. Friend's question is in the negative, and the second part does not therefore arise. With regard to the third part, I think that the question might be raised in the event of a Secret Session being held.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

Does my hon. Friend realise that the last Army Council did not object to the publication of these figures; if there has not been any change why should not the request be granted?

Mr. MACPHERSON

So far as I know the last Army Council took the same view of the question as we do now.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

Having regard to the importance of this matter to those of us who take part in the Secret Session Debate would it not be possible to provide some of this information earlier in order that we may be able to look over it before the Debate?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I cannot give any assurance as to that; but the hon. Gentleman knows perfectly well that if any individual Member of the House cares to go to the War Office he will be shown the figures.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

Thank you; I will.

Mr. BILLING

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the present casualties on the front are the gravest reflection on the administration of the Air Service?

Mr. MACPHERSON

No; I am not at all aware of that.