§ 50. Captain GARRO-JONESasked the Secretary of State far Air whether he is aware that the main deterrent to large numbers of potential amateur flying men is not only the first costs but the fear of accidents to their machine and of consequent upkeep costs; what would be the cost of providing an all-in insurance policy, covering pilot, machine, and third parties, for a period of 12 months; and whether he has considered the practicability of offering to defray the whole or part of such insurance costs in the case of pilots who have first qualified at an approved school?
§ Sir P. SASSOONAs the answer is rather long, I will, with the hon. and gallant Member's permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
§ Following is the reply.
§ As regards the first part of the question, the information at the disposal of the Air Ministry is by no means conclusive that the main deterrent to private 619 flying is that stated by the hon. and gallant Member; but I do not doubt that the question of upkeep and, in particular, of possible liability in case of accident must weigh to a considerable extent with potential pilots. As regards the second part, I have made inquiries of the British Aviation Insurance Group and understand that it would not be possible for the insurance companies to adopt a flat comprehensive insurance scheme of the kind suggested. The rate of premium would depend necessarily upon the applicant's flying record, the amount and nature of the flying which he intended to carry out, the type of aircraft to be flown, the locality, and other variable factors. As regards the last part, I am ready to consider any proposal designed to encourage private flying, but I feel grave doubts as to the practicability of adopting the particular suggestion made by the hon. and gallant Member.