HC Deb 19 May 1924 vol 173 cc1812-3
22 Sir S. HOARE

asked the Prime Minister whether he will immediately circulate as a White Paper the contract signed between the Government and a commercial group with reference to the construction of our airships?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for AIR (Mr. Leach)

I have been asked to reply. The contract has not yet been signed, but agreement, with the Airship Guarantee Company has been reached on all points of substance and the draft is being submitted to the legal advisers on both sides. I should perhaps point out that, as provision for the development of airships was omitted from the Air Estimates pending a decision by the Government on the policy to be adopted, the contract will not be signed until the necessary Supplementary Estimate has been taken. My right hon. Friend the Secretary of State for Air proposes to give a full account of the Government proposals on Wednesday in another place, and I shall, of course, in introducing the Supplementary Estimate, be prepared to give this House any further details in my power

Sir S. HOARE

Will the hon. Gentleman circulate a White Paper giving the details before we have a debate in this House?

Mr. LEACH

If I find it possible, I will.