§ 16. Mr. MANDERasked the Undersecretary of State for Air if he will state approximately the estimated annual increased cost to the Air Estimates of bringing this country up to parity with the largest European air Power on the existing basis?
§ Sir P. SASSOONThe increased air expenditure involved by the maintenance of the Royal Air Force at parity with the strongest European Air Force existing to-day may, on a basis of current prices, be put at approximately £8,000,000 annually.
§ Mr. MANDERWould that be the same for the first year as for subsequent years?
§ Sir P. SASSOONNo. It would average out.