HC Deb 02 December 1925 vol 188 cc2212-3
43. Colonel GRETTON

asked the Secretary of State for Air if it is the policy of the Air Ministry to proceed expeditiously to erect and acquire buildings; and when it is anticipated that requirements for buildings both for the use of the Ministry and of the Air Force will be satisfied?

Sir S. HOARE

The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative, but naturally the prevailing financial stringency must be taken continuously into account. As regards the second part, the expansion of the Air Force for home defence is still in progress, and it is not, therefore, possible to state a date by which requirements will be fully met.

Mr. THURTLE

Is the signing of the Locarno Pact likely to affect this programme in any way?

Sir S. HOARE

That is certainly a question that must be taken into account when the general problem of disarmament is considered.

Sir F. WISE

May I ask whether the buildings at Halton axe still going on?

Sir S. HOARE

Yes, Sir.