§ 13. Mr. RAPERasked the Secretary of State for Air how many air attachés there are; what are their duties; and what is their remuneration in the aggregate and individually?
Captain GUESTThere are two air attachés, at Paris and at Washington, and their duties are to keep His Majesty's Government in touch with the developments of aviation in all its aspects in the countries to which they are accredited. Their remuneration consists of their ordinary Air Force pay, together with a foreign allowance (also admissible for naval and military attachés) of £5 a day at Washingon and £4 at Paris, inclusive of entertainment and all other allowances, except travelling allowance for journeys outside the capital city.
§ Mr. RAPERIs it not the fact that France, which is so far ahead of us as regards progress in aviation, has already decided to dispense with air attachés, as being unnecessary?
Captain GUESTI am not aware of the point raised by my hon. Friend, nor am I prepared to admit that France is so far ahead of us in aviation.
Captain GUESTTo the best of my recollection, one is an air commodore and the other a group captain.
§ Mr. RAPERIf, as I suggest, France has withdrawn her air attachés as unnecessary, will the right hon. Gentleman consider doing the same?
Rear-Admiral Sir R. HALLIf it be the fact that France is withdrawing her air attaches, could the right hon. Gentleman ascertain who is doing the work?