§ 9. Commander OLIVER LOCKER - LAMPSONasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether he is yet in a position to make any statement as to the possibility of Government financial assistance to the gliding movement in this country?
§ Sir P. SASSOONYes, Sir. My Noble Friend has reached the conclusion that some measure of financial assistance to the gliding movement from Air Votes is justified. This will probably take the form of assistance towards the formation and maintenance of a properly organised central gliding school, which is regarded as essential to the sound development of gliding, coupled with a small capitation grant to approved clubs in respect of each certificate taken out by their members. Pending discussion with the interests concerned, I am not in a position to give any further details. I may add that financial assistance will be limited to a five-year period in the first instance, and will be subject to an overhead limit of £5,000 annually. In view of the official recognition thus accorded to the national importance of gliding, my Noble Friend trusts that generous financial support will also be forthcoming from private sources in order to ensure the success of the movement.
§ Mr. NEIL MACLEANCan the right hon. Gentleman say what amount of grant is likely to be given?
§ Sir P. SASSOONI cannot say more than I have said in my answer.
§ Mr. PERKINSWill not this need a Supplementary Estimate?
§ Sir P. SASSOONI cannot say at the moment.
§ Mr. MACQUISTENWill the Under-Secretary keep in view the fact that the hills in the Highlands are the best places for gliding?