§ Mr. HENDERSON STEWART(by Private Notice) asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether he has any statement to make on the accident to the Dutch air liner which occurred near Croydon yesterday; and whether he is satisfied with the position of Croydon as an air port in view of the prevalence of fog in that district, the available ground space for the landing and taking off of heavy machines, and the present control of flying in foggy weather to and from that port?
§ Sir P. SASSOONI regret that I have no information which I could usefully add to the full accounts which have been given of the sad fatality which occurred at Croydon yesterday morning, as the causes of the accident are still under investigation by the Inspector of Accidents. As regards the second part of the question, Croydon like all aerodromes in this country, is liable to fog conditions, but I must emphasise that the decision to take off is entirely within the discretion of the pilot of the aircraft, subject to the direction of traffic exercised by the Control Officer of the airport. As regards ground space, Croydon Aerodrome fully conforms to Air Ministry requirements, and provides ample space for aircraft 2171 complying with international requirements. I have received no complaint against the flying control system at Croydon. I am sure that the House will wish me to express their heartfelt condolence with the relatives of those who have so unhappily lost their lives.
Mr. STEWARTDoes the right hon. Baronet realise the shock which this tragedy has caused to public opinion and to public safety, and will he undertake to make the most searching inquiry as to what seems to us an inexcusable accident in tragic circumstances?