HC Deb 30 April 1930 vol 238 cc188-9
46. Commander BELLAIRS

asked the Prime Minister whether the Government has considered the desirability of making civil aviation entirely independent of military control; and whether he can state the future policy of the Government on this matter?

The PRIME MINISTER (Mr. Ramsay MacDonald)

Civil aviation in this country is not under military control, the Air Ministry being a Department which has a number of civil, in addition to its military, functions. His Majesty's Government do not contemplate any alteration in the existing system.

Commander BELLAIRS

In view of the fact that no confidential details are involved, will the Government consider the advisability of holding a public inquiry into the whole matter of placing civil aviation on the same footing as the mercantile marine, and independent of the Air Ministry?

The PRIME MINISTER

That is a totally different question, but, if the hon. and gallant Member will put his question on the Paper, I will give him a reply.