§ 13. Major GLYNasked the Secretary of State for Air how many machines in all are at present in daily use at home and overseas, respectively; how many other machines could be used in case of emergency complete with trained pilots within a period of 15 days from such emergency arising; and what is the total cost for maintaining each aeroplane in service compared with the general cost of administration of the unit?
Captain GUESTThe answer to the first part of this question is given in the answer to the hon. Member for East Leyton (Mr. L. Malone) on the 24th February. This includes training machines. I do not consider it advisable, in the public interests, to answer the second part of the question. As regards the third part of the question, it is not practicable to separate the cost of maintenance and administration in the manner suggested.
§ Major GLYNIs it not a fact that the cost of administration amounts to about eight times the cost of operating one machine?
Captain GUESTNo. That is a statement which I challenge, and will deal with when the proper time comes.