§ 19. Major POLEasked the Secretary of State for India the total cost incurred by the Government of India in the erection of the mooring mast and other ground equipment in preparation for the flight of the R 101 at Karachi; what is the annual cost of the upkeep of the mast and other equipment; and whether he will give information concerning the attitude of the Government of India towards the future maintenance of the mast and equipment, in view of the recent statement by His Majesty's Government in regard to their future airship policy?
§ Mr. BENNThe original estimate of the cost of construction of the mooring tower was £55,000. The figure of actual 599 cost is not yet available, but I have heard that the estimate has been somewhat exceeded. The annual cost of maintaining the station, which is charged to the Air Ministry vote, is £3,600. The Government of India have been informed of the recent decision of His Majesty's Government regarding future airship policy, but I have not yet received their views as to future policy in India.
§ Lieut. - Commander KENWORTHYDoes that mean that we are paying the cost of upkeep?
§ Lieut.-Commander KENWORTHYIs my right hon. Friend aware that items on the Air Ministry Vote are frequently met by payments from other Departments or Governments—as, for example, in the case of Mesopotamia?