§ 76. Sir H. BRITTAINasked the Secretary of State for Air what progress is being made with the air squadrons at Oxford and Cambridge; and having regard to the possibilities of research dealing with the whole science of aeronautics, is he prepared to give the fullest possible facilities to encourage the work being done in these two universities?
§ Sir P. SASSOONWith the hon. Member's permission, I will circulate the answer in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
§ Sir H. BRITTAINCan the Under-Secretary say whether there is any cooperation between these two universities on this question.
§ Sir P. SASSOONI had better read the answer.
§ Sir H. BRITTAINI am quite ready for the hon. Member to circulate the answer. Can he tell me whether there is any co-operation in regard to the question which I have put down?
§ Sir P. SASSOONI will give the hon. Member the information in the answer which I will publish.
§ Following is the answer:
§ As regards the first part of the question, I am very satisfied with the progress made with those squadrons to date, and should like to express my appreciation of the assistance which I have received from the university authorities in their development. They have undoubtedly stimulated interest in aviation in the universities. Each squadron now consists of about 50 undergraduate members and at Cambridge there is a considerable waiting list. In addition to flying training, courses of instruction have been arranged in aeroplane construction and rigging, engine construction and maintenance, wireless telegraphy, air navigation and other subjects of aeronautical interest. The number of applications for commissions is very satisfactory. The answer to the last part of the question is in the affirmative. I am anxious to give every encouragement to the universities to 565 undertake problems of aeronautical research and I hope that valuable results will thus be obtained