HC Deb 24 May 1921 vol 142 c11
24. Mr. RAPER

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether the present subsidy to British air lines is confined to one machine per day in each direction; and, if so, whether this limiting of the services results in the turning away of would-be passengers?

Captain GUEST

The present subsidy is designed to assist the running of two machines in each direction each day, but there is no restriction against the firms operating additional machines without subsidy. The lack of sufficient suitable machines, however, has hitherto limited the service to one machine in each direction each day, except on special occasions, and, as a consequence of this shortage, and of the expansion of the traffic, would-be passengers are being turned away.

Mr. MILLS

Has this any relation to the increased cost of the postal service?

Captain GUEST

No, Sir, we have no contract with the Post Office at the moment.

Captain TERRELL

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the passengers turned away by British companies are being carried by the French companies?

Captain GUEST

Yes, Sir.