§ 70. Major BRAITHWAITEasked the Secretary of State for Air if his attention has been called to the financial condition of the light aeroplane clubs; if he is aware that under the old scheme of subsidy most of the clubs are left with a legacy of debt; and will he take some steps to clear these old liabilities to leave the clubs an opportunity of operating, as they can do under the new scheme, with a measure of financial security?
§ Sir P. SASSOONYes, Sir; I am aware that some of the light aeroplane clubs are in financial difficulties, but the subsidies and other assistance which the Air Ministry can grant are definitely limited by the terms of the agreements with them, and I am afraid that, in view of the urgent need for economy, there is no possibility of their being relieved of their existing liabilities by means of further grants from public funds.
§ Major BRAITHWAITEDoes not the hon. Member consider, in the interests of civil aviation, that these clubs should not be allowed to go on indefinitely in debt, as the ordinary man in the street has no possible chance of being taught to fly?