HC Deb 16 March 1922 vol 151 cc2346-7
21. Mr. RAPER

asked the Secretary of State for Air how many effective squadrons of aeroplanes are owned by, respectively, Great Britain and France, stating how many effective machines and pilots are calculated per squadron; and, so far as Great Britain is concerned, how many of these effective squadrons are at present stationed in this country for home defence?

The SECRETARY of STATE for AIR (Captain Guest)

As regards the first part of the question, the differences in organisation of the Air Services of Great Britain and France make it impossible to supply, within the limits of a parliamentary answer, comparative figures which would be of any value. The present strength of the Royal Air Force, in terms of active units, is 32 squadrons, of which the number stationed in England for all purposes is 12. I would ask the hon. Member to wait for my speech on Air Force Estimates, in which I hope to be able to deal briefly with the question of home defence.

Mr. RAPER

Is the House to understand that the right hon. Gentleman is unable to give any figures in regard to the strength of the French Air Service?

Captain GUEST

No. I am able to do so, but I could not do so in a form which would be of any value to the House in reply to a question.

Mr. RAPER

Will the right hon. Gentleman issue a published statement?

Captain GUEST

I will make a statement on Monday next.