§ 49. Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLEasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air the reasons for the delay in extending the British air-mail service to Australia; and whether he is satisfied that everything possible is being done to expedite the matter?
§ Sir P. SASSOONThe extension from Karachi to Singapore should be in operation before the end of this year. I understand that His Majesty's Government in the Commonwealth of Australia, who are responsible for the extension onwards, have invited tenders for the service between Singapore and Australia which are returnable in January next.
§ 51. Mr. SIMMONDSasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air the maximum speed of British mail aircraft, and those of America and Holland?
§ Sir P. SASSOONAccording to my information, the maximum speeds of the fastest mail-carrying aircraft on British, American and Dutch regular air services are 150, 215 and 186 miles per hour, respectively.
§ Mr. SIMMONDSIn view of this ghastly state of affairs is the Under-Secretary prepared to take any action in the matter?
§ Sir P. SASSOONI should like to say hat speed is not everything, safety and silence enter into the question, and there are also other factors which operate in an economical working.
§ Mr. SIMMONDSBut in the case of mail aircraft is not speed the mast important factor?