§ 37. Mr. THURTLEasked the Secretary of State for Air what was the price paid for the hydrogen-kerosene engine purchased from the Airship Guarantee Company in March, 1926; how much money has been expended on this engine since; and whether he is yet in a position to say whether or not the engine will be of any practical value?
§ Mr. PENNYI have been asked to reply. The answer to the first part of the question is 210,500; to the second, that contracts for further work upon the engine have since been placed to the 13 value of £4,274, but payment under these contracts has not yet been made. As regards the last part of the question, my right hon. Friend is not in a position to give a definite answer pending the completion of the work, but it is hoped that valuable results will accrue.
§ Mr. THURTLEIn view of the fact that over two years have elapsed since this engine was purchased, when does the Air Ministry expect to be in a position to say whether any benefit is to be derived from it or not?
§ Mr. PENNYThe engine will be ready to be tested in July, and we hope then to be able to deal with the matter.
§ Mr. THURTLEThis year, or next year?