§ 56. Mr. EDEasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air the total number of first-line aircraft in Great Britain, France, and Germany, respectively, in May, 1935, when the two-years' expansion scheme was announced; and what are the figures to-day?
§ Sir P. SASSOONThe present establishment of first-line aircraft of the Royal Air Force is about 1,180 aircraft, as against 1,015 in May, 1935. As regards the former figure, some units are in course of formation and are therefore not up to full strength. No official up-to-date figures are available in respect of France or Germany. As regards the subject matter of this question, I would refer the hon. Member to the speech delivered in the Debate on 22nd July last by my Noble Friend, where he pointed out the un-wisdom of drawing conclusions from comparative figures of first-line strength made at any particular moment.
§ Mr. MONTAGUECan the right hon. Gentleman without notice indicate to some extent the relation between first-line strength and the several kinds of reserve strengths in the respective countries?
§ Sir P. SASSOONNo, Sir, not without notice.