§ 21. Mr. MANDERasked the Undersecretary of State for Air if he will give particulars of the Empire air-day arranged by the Empire Air League at various Royal Air Force stations on 24th May?
§ Sir P. SASSOONArrangements are being made to open about 40 Royal Air Force stations from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. on 24th May, to enable members of the public, on payment of a small charge for 951 admission (the proceeds of which will be devoted to Service charities), to inspect hangars, workshops and aircraft at close quarters and to obtain an insight into the everyday life of the Royal Air Force. Visitors will have an opportunity of seeing almost every phase of the peace-time work of the Royal Air Force, and I hope that the public will take full advantage of this innovation, which is due to the initiative of the Air League of the British Empire. No expenditure from public funds will be involved.
§ Mr. MANDERDo the Government feel that not sufficient public interest is being taken in the Royal Air Force?
§ Sir P. SASSOONIt is because so much interest is being taken by the public that they would like an opportunity of seeing a little more of the Royal Air Force training at close quarters.
§ Sir WILLIAM WAYLANDIs it not a fact that civil aviation grounds will be open, the object being to interest people, young and old, in the flying facilities at present available in this country and throughout the world for linking the Empire more closely?