HC Deb 15 November 1933 vol 281 c916
40. Mr. WHITESIDE

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether it is the intention of the Air Ministry to replace the high-speed mail-carrier aircraft recently damaged; and whether other similar types of aeroplanes are to be constructed?

Sir P. SASSOON

No decision for the future has yet been reached. The cause of the accident is still under investigation.

Mr. WHITESIDE

Will the Under-Secretary bear in mind the fact that the Dutch propose to operate an air-mail service between Amsterdam and Batavia in three and a-half days, while our time to India is seven days, and that Germany and the United States possess transport aircraft capable of cruising at 200 miles an hour, while we do not possess a single experimental aircraft capable of cruising at that speed?

Mr. PERKINS

Is the Under-Secretary aware that as a result of recent discussions on the Continent there is a definite possibility of a reduction in the air forces of the world, and that, as a result, our nearest neighbours have been rapidly expanding their fast air-mail services? Can he give an assurance that Britain will not be left behind?

Mr. SPEAKER

The hon. Member must put that question on the Order Paper.