HC Deb 12 March 1930 vol 236 cc1318-9
64. Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air if he can now state when the Airship R 100 is to make her first commercial flight?

Mr. MONTAGUE

No arrangements for commercial flights by R 100 have yet been considered, but it is expected that she will make an experimental flight to Canada towards the end of May.

Mr. SOMERVILLE

Will Members of Parliament have an opportunity of taking part in the flight?

Mr. MONTAGUE

That will be considered.

Mr. MALONE

Would it not be better to be quite frank with the public and tell them that neither of these airships will be of any value for commercial purposes?

65. Mr. FREEMAN

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air if he intends to arrange for a flight for Members of Parliament in the R100 or the R101; and, if so, when?

Mr. MONTAGUE

My Noble Friend hopes that it will be possible to arrange for a flight or flights, but both airships will be in their sheds for a little time to come and it is inadvisable to make any arrangements for the present.

Mr. MANDER

Is the hon. Member aware that there are many Members of this House who are not likely to vote any more money for airships until they have been taken for a successful flight?

Viscountess ASTOR

Blackmail!

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