§ 73. Lieut-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air what is the present position with regard to the air-transport treaty between this country and Czechoslovakia; and what is delaying the start of civilian transport by air to Prague from England?
§ Mr. LEACHThe ratification of the temporary air traffic agreement referred to has, in accordance with the provisions of the agreement, been forwarded to His Majesty's representative at Prague for exchange against a similar instrument to be executed by the President of the Czechoslovak Republic. It has not yet been possible, as desired by both Governments, to commence an air service between London and Prague under this agreement on account of the action of the German Government in withholding their consent 682 to the operation of the service over that part of the route which lies within German territory.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYCan the hon. Member say what steps are being taken to get the consent of the German Government to our flying over German territory?
§ Sir H. BRITTAINHas not this matter been held up for over a year, and are not the people of Prague anxious to get this air service between Prague and London?
§ Mr. LEACHThere are certain disabilities placed upon German aircraft development, and they are raising similar difficulties wherever possible to put upon other nations who want to fly over their territory. The whole question is being discussed with a view to removing these difficulties as soon as possible.