HC Deb 07 February 1934 vol 285 c1121
23. Mr. EVERARD

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether any agreement has been made with the Italian Government for permission for Imperial Airways to run a flying service through Italian territory?

24. Mr. MANDER

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air if he has any information to give with regard to the new British air route throughout Europe as a result of the agreement with Italy?

Sir P. SASSOON

My Noble Friend, and with him the Director of Civil Aviation, were cordially received in Rome by the Italian Government, and I am glad to say that a provisional agreement has been reached which will enable Imperial Airways to operate their Indian and African air services over Italian territory by the most convenient routes.

Mr. MANDER

Can the Under-Secretary say when this service is likely to start?

Sir P. SASSOON

I should say in about three months time.

Captain HAROLD BALFOUR

Can my hon. Friend say how much time will be saved on the journey to Egypt by this arrangement?

Sir P. SASSOON

I cannot say definitely as the arrangements have not been completed.