§ 48. Mr. D. G. SOMERVILLEasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air how the total numbers and horse-power of British commercial and private aeroplanes compare with those of France, United States of America, Russia, Italy and Germany, respectively?
§ Sir P. SASSOONAs the answer contains figures in tabulated form, I will, with my hon. Friend's permission, circulate it in the OFFICI A I, REPORT.
§ Following is the answer:
§ The table below gives the available information as at the 31st December, 1932. I have no authentic information with regard to Russia, and it is not possible to give the particulars as regards other countries in the precise form asked for.
§ Sir P. SASSOONMy hon. Friend has in mind aircraft arriving from abroad. In such cases the landing will normally be made at Lympne, Which is itself a Customs aerodrome. In the rare case when a landing is made elsewhere, by an aircraft not fitted with radio, Customs clearance will be dispensed with if the pilot reports his arrival to a police con- 873 stable. The latter is authorised to allow the aircraft to proceed to Croydon or other Customs air port, provided no passengers are landed for their destination and no goods or animals are unloaded.
§ Mr. WHITESIDEWill the Under-Secretary see that constables are available?
§ Sir P. SASSOONI will bear it in mind.