§ 47. Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is still in communication with the Italian authorities with a view to the Royal Air Force assisting in the rescue of the crew of the air ship "Italia"; whether any request or suggestions for assistance have been made by the Italian authorities; and what form of help has been offered by the Royal Air Force and with what result?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for AIR (Sir Philip Sassoon)My right hon. Friend, as he informed the hon. and gallant Member on the 28th June, invited the Italian authorities some time since if now or at a later stage there should appear to be anything which the Air Force could usefully do to assist in the rescue operations to call upon us without hesitation. The Italian Government replied that, if occasion arose, they would most certainly avail themselves of our offer, since when no further communication has come from them. My right hon. Friend received, however, on Saturday, a telegraphic request from Norwegian sources from the Committee for the relief of Amundsen asking whether we could lend two small float seaplanes which could be refitted with ski in Norway. He has replied that, if any of our available types can be utilised by the Norwegian authorities, after this modification, the Royal Air Force will, of course, be happy to furnish these aircraft forthwith. Detailed arrangements are now under discussion.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYDoes that mean that these small float seaplanes are on the way. That was Saturday and this is Monday. Have you sent them?
§ Sir P. SASSOONThere really has been no delay.
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYBut have they been sent?
§ Sir P. SASSOONWe have to wait to know exactly what type they want.