§
Motion made, and Question proposed,
That a sum, not exceeding £7,203,000, be granted to His Majesty, to defray the Expense of Technical and Warlike Stores (including Experimental and Research Services), which will come in course of payment during the year ending on the 31st day of March, 1934.
§ 12.15 a.m.
§ Mr. PERKINSOn this Vote I wish to ask a question about parachutes. There are three types of parachutes manufactured in this country. The Irvine parachute, which is made in England, and I understand is controlled by foreign capital. A second type, which I use, is the Russell-Lobe, which is controlled by British capital; and a third, the Quilter, which is approximately half the price of the other two. Why does the Ministry prefer to buy the parachute which is to a large extent foreign? Has the Quilter parachute been tested and proved reliable in every respect? There is another matter which I raised two months ago, about the sale of 20 Gypsy I engines. I received a circular stating that these engines were bought two or three years ago, that they have never been used, and were perfect in every respect. I have made certain inquiries, and I find that the sum paid for these engines was in the neighbourhood of £4,000. I find that these engines are practically value- 1939 less. I ask the Under-Secretary whether he has succeeded in selling them, and, if so, for how much?
§ Sir P. SASSOONI could not give an answer without obtaining some more definite information, but I will get a reply to both questions and communicate with my hon. Friend.