§ 91. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air what is the cost for construction of the R 34 type of airship; what is the cost of its shed; what is the personnel required at the shed for handling the airship, etc.; what is the estimated total monthly cost of the airship when in commission, including pay of personnel; and what is the cost of the N 3 B type of flying boat seaplane, 1919, pattern?
§ Major-General SEELYThe first part of the question is for the Board of Admiralty, and perhaps the hon. and gallant Member will address the question to them. The cost of the latest flying boat built to N 3 B specification is £9,000 complete with engines; the specification is, however, not a new one.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYWhat is the cost of the shed?
§ Major-General SEELYQuestions as to the shed of the airship should be addressed to the Admiralty. They ordered the ships, although the Air Ministry had control of them for experimental purposes. The actual details of the contract price should be asked of the Admiralty.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYWhat is the personnel? Has the right hon. Gentleman information as to the number of persons necessary to handle this airship?
§ Major-General SEELYI have suggested that on that point also the question should be addressed to the Admiralty. I included that in the first part of the answer. I think they will be able to give the information required.
Captain BENNAre we to understand from that answer that the Air Ministry has not complete control over the lighter-than-air material?
§ Major-General SEELYYes, that is so. At present we have not complete control of lighter-than-air ships. With regard to personnel, we are responsible for that. The matter is complicated, but it will be adjusted in a very short time.