49. Sir F. HALLasked the Secretary of State for Air whether, seeing that the gas containers for the new airship R 100 are being made in Germany, he will say whether the material for this purpose can, at the present time, be manufactured in this country; and, if not, what is proposed to be done to remedy this state of things?
§ Sir P. SASSOONThe Air Ministry have been informed by a firm in this country that the material can now be manufactured through their agency in Great Britain, and this statement is under investigation. Research is being carried out with a view to providing a synthetic substitute for skin-covered fabric.
Sir F. HALLDo I understand then that the gas containers are not being made in Germany but are being manufactured in this country?
§ Sir P. SASSOONThe firm to which I referred are at present undertaking experiments for manufacture.
Sir F. HALLDo I understand we are left at the mercy of foreign countries for the manufacture of one of the most vital parts of the airships of this country?
§ Sir P. SASSOONMy answer expressed the hope that it world not be so.