§ 26. Mr. BILLINGasked the Under-Secretary of State for War whether any machines of the BE 2C, BE 2D, or BE 2E types have been employed over enemy territory during the recent offensive operations on the Western Front; and, if so, whether it is proposed to continue so to employ them?
§ The PARLIAMENTARY SECRETARY to the AIR BOARD (Major Baird)The types of machine referred to in the question are mainly employed for artillery reconnaissance, for the carrying out of which it is necessary that they should fly over enemy territory. The answer to the second part of the question is in the affirmative. I would add—and on this point I take the opportunity of correcting an answer which I gave to the hon. Member on 20th March—that these machines are also used for bombing expeditions when large operations are in progress.
§ Mr. BILLINGWill the hon. and gallant Gentleman have inquiries made whether these machines are fit to send on bombing expeditions in view of the enormous losses they have suffered?
§ Major BAIRDIn the view of the officers responsible they are fit for this sort of work.
§ Mr. BILLINGIs the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that it takes them 50 minutes to climb 5,000 feet, and their speed is 70 miles an hour?
§ Major BAIRDIt is impossible to discuss this by question and answer. The hon. Member will have an opportunity.