§ 25. Mr. RAPERasked the Prime Minister whether it is now proposed to appoint a separate Secretary of State for Air; and, if so, when such appointment will be made?
§ 34. Lieut.-Colonel BURGOYNEasked the Prime Minister whether any decision has been arrived at as to the future control, of the Air Ministry; and who is at present responsible for its administration?
§ 41. Captain W. BENNasked the Prime Minister whether it is intended that the Secretary of State for the Colonies shall continue to exercise the duties of Air Minister; and who will answer for the Air Ministry in the event of the absence of the Secretary of State for any lengthy period?
§ The PRIME MINISTERNo decision has yet been reached as to the 260 appointment of a separate Secretary of State for the Air Department. In the meantime my right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for the Colonies has agreed to continue to discharge the duty and he will present the Estimates for this year to the House.
§ Captain BENNIs the hon. Gentleman aware that the right hon. Gentleman explained to the House that it was necessary that the War Ministry and the Air Ministry should go hand in hand, and what is the reason for the Colonial Minister exercising the duties?
§ The PRIME MINISTERI certainly never said that. [HON. MEMBERS: "Yes."] I say no.