§ 71. Mr. R. ROBINSONasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether 1405 he is conducting any negotiations with regard to an Atlantic air-mail service; and, if so, with whom?
§ Sir P. SASSOONWhen reviewing the whole field of the development of Empire air services last year, His Majesty's Government decided, after full consideration of all relevant factors, to entrust the operation of the North Atlantic service when instituted to Imperial Airways, in so far as the United Kingdom is concerned—this company having done much preparatory work on the problems of trans-Atlantic operation. Preliminary negotiations were accordingly opened with the company, and a mission from this country has recently visited Canada and the United States to participate in discussions designed to facilitate co-operation between the United States, Canada, Newfoundland, the Irish Free State and the United Kingdom.
§ Mr. ROBINSONCan my right hon. Friend say how soon he expects operations to commence on this service?
§ Sir P. SASSOONI do not think I could say definitely now.
§ Mr. MONTAGUEDoes this development policy involve any revision of subsidy?
§ Sir P. SASSOONIt is a completely new arrangement.
§ Mr. MONTAGUEIn that case will the Under-Secretary consider the question of Government representation on the Imperial Airways Board?
§ Sir P. SASSOONI should like notice of that question.