§ 28. Mr. SIMMONDSasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air when he first received a request from an aircraft operating company for the removal or reduction in height of the wireless pylon at Croydon aerodrome; and what action was subsequently taken by the Air Ministry?
§ Sir P. SASSOONA representation that the height and position of this beacon constituted a danger to aircraft was first received in a letter from an operating company dated 31st October last. Preliminary inquiries and discussions were opened at once, and a conference on the whole question of the use of the beacon was held in January, attended by representatives of all the operating companies useing the airport. Certain very complex technical questions remained for fuller examination, but in view of the recent most regrettable accident, the decision has now been taken that the beacon should be reduced in height forthwith, even although this entails the abandonment of its possible use for long-range navigation.
§ Mr. SIMMONDSIs it not the fact that after that conference in January the Air Ministry promised that the beacon would forthwith be reduced in height?
§ Sir P. SASSOONNo, I do not think so. My hon. Friend will remember that this beacon was put up as a factor of safety in flying.
§ Mr. MACQUISTENIs there any need for a pylon at all? Surely a strong ground light is all that is needed to ensure the safety of aeroplanes.