HC Deb 02 July 1925 vol 185 cc2798-800
72. Sir H. BRITTAIN

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he can see his way to arrange occasional reviews of the Royal Air Force in other parts of Great Britain as well as at Hendon to enable many who are unable to visit London to see something of British aerial development?

Sir P. SASSOON

The majority of the aerodromes of the Royal Air Force are at present so far removed from the larger centres of population that it would be difficult to carry out the suggestion contained in my hon. Friend's question. It will, however, be carefully borne in mind and I hope that it may be possible to put it into practice when further progress has been made with the preparation of the new stations which are being opened in connection with the scheme of Home Defence and the development of the Auxiliary Air Force.

Captain BRASS

Is it not a fact that these pageants or demonstrations are very excellent practice for the Air Force?

Sir P. SASSOON

Yes. They are the culmination of their training.

75. Captain BRASS

asked the Secretary of State for Air the number of persons who attended the recent Air Force demonstration at Hendon; and how many machines were employed?

Sir P. SASSOON

The attendance at the Aerial Display on Saturday last is roughly estimated at 100,000, but it is impossible to give an accurate figure until the returns from the advance booking agencies throughout London have been received. The number of machines employed was 137.

Captain BRASS

Is it not a fact that this is the largest number that has ever attended Hendon and the finest demonstration the Air Force has ever made, and that they are to be heartily congratulated?

Mr. THURTLE

Did any casualties take place at this pageant?

Sir P. SASSOON

No, there was none.

76. Sir H. BRITTAIN

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether efforts have been made to discover the individual who prevented the wireless signals being received during the Aerial Pageant; and whether, if these efforts are successful, the individual in question will be dealt with by the legal authority?

Sir P. SASSOON

I am afraid that owing to technical difficulties nothing can now be done to trace the individual responsible for this very regrettable interference.