§ 35. Mr. HARDIEasked the Secretary of State for Air what progress has been made with the construction of R100; and when the last payment was made by the Government?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for AIR (Sir Samuel Hoare)As regards the first part of the question, good progress has been made and the airship is now about 85 per cent. completed. As regards the second part, the last payment was made in March, 1928.
§ Mr. HARDIEThen this contract is not being completed, and it is not possible to get the airship ready in the time specified. Is the delay caused in any way by financial difficulties?
§ Sir S. HOARENo, Sir, not as far as I know. I am afraid it is very difficult to keep actually to a date, but good progress is now being made, and the airship will be completed early next year.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYWhen will she take the air actually?
§ Sir S. HOAREI am not prepared to give a date, but some time in the spring of next year the airship ought to fly.