HC Deb 18 July 1934 vol 292 cc1084-5
12. Mr. CHORLTON

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether any application of heavy-oil aero-engines has been or is immediately contemplated for large flying boats to enable, by reason of their higher economy, the possibility of longer flights being made?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for AIR (Sir Philip Sassoon)

Yes, Sir; a test is being arranged.

13. Mr. CHORLTON

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether he will consider special attention being given to the use of high-economy heavy-oil aero-engines, using fuel of low cost, to civil mail aeroplanes to enable the postal air-service to be greatly and economically increased?

Sir P. SASSOON

Special attention is being given to the development of such engines; their application to mail carrying aircraft will no doubt follow when their efficiency, reliability and economy in operation have been proved.

Mr. CHORLTON

When are we to receive a little more detailed information of the progress which is being made?

Sir P. SASSOON

The hon. Gentleman knows that progress is very slow.

14. Mr. CHORLTON

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air the number of types of aero-engines using heavy oil as a fuel that are now available for installation or already in use in the Royal Air Force or civil aircraft?

Sir P. SASSOON

The answer is that two such types of aero-engines are available, but they must still be regarded as being in the experimental stage.