HC Deb 07 July 1920 vol 131 c1424
83. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHY

asked the Secretary of State for War whether General Carton de Wiart obtained possession from the War Office to take part in the demonstration flight to Kieff in a Bristol aeroplane on behalf of a Polish syndicate; and whether it is considered part of General Wiart's duties to take part in demonstrations of this kind?

Mr. CHURCHILL

The answer to both parts of the question is in the negative. There is no objection to a British officer taking an aeroplane flight; in fact, although not forming part of his duties, the interest displayed by General Carton de Wiart in the enterprise appears commendable.

Lieut.- Commander KENWORTHY

May I ask whether this flight was not made to advertise this Polish syndicate; is this syndicate a commercial venture, and if that is the case is it not rather improper for a British General to do such a thing?

Mr. CHURCHILL

No. Consideration of the circumstances has led me to the conclusion which I have already conveyed to the hon. and gallant Member.