HC Deb 15 February 1933 vol 274 cc995-6
51. Mr. PERKINS

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware of the loss of life that has resulted from the recent explosion of a gasholder in Germany containing, approximately 2,000,000 cubic feet of gas; and that there is a new gasholder over 300 feet high containing, when full 8,000,000 cubic feet of gas on the direct air route between Heston and Stag Lane Aerodrome; and whether in view of the possibility of an aeroplane flying into this gasholder in foggy weather, he will take immediate steps in the public interest to place a warning light on the top of this gasholder as is done in similar instances in America and Germany?

Sir VICTOR WARRENDER (Vice-Chamberlain of the Household)

The general question of the lighting of gasholders, as well as the action which might properly be taken in the particular case referred to, is under active consideration in conjunction with the various interests concerned.

Sir W. DAVISON

Is the Air Ministry satisfied that grave danger may not be caused to the civil population in the event of an aeroplane carrying petrol colliding with one of these vast gasholders which are being set up throughout the country?

Sir V. WARRENDER

That is the reason the matter is being inquired into.