HC Deb 09 July 1917 vol 95 c1609
100. Mr. BILLING

asked the Undersecretary of State for War whether courts of inquiry are still held on the deaths of airmen which occur while flying in this country?

Mr. MACPHERSON

Yes, Sir; in all cases of accident, but not necessarily when the casualty occurs on active service.

Mr. BILLING

Was the attention of the hon. Gentleman called to the reply given to this question by the Parliamentary Secretary to the Air Board in which he directly contradicted that and said that it was impossible?

Mr. OUTHWAITE

Will the bon. Gentleman say why the next of kin are forbidden to be present at these Courts of Inquiry?

Mr. MACPHERSON

I am not aware of that, but I will have inquiries made.