§ 49. Mr. SIMMONDSasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air in what depth 1795 of water the hull of the "City of Khartoum" lies; on how many occasions have divers made attempts to examine the hull; and on what date the last attempt was made?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for AIR (Sir Philip Sassoon)I am informed that the wreckage now lies at a depth of from 60 to 70 feet. On the days immediately following the accident, the sunken aircraft was examined on a number of occasions, both by divers in the employ of the Egyptian Government and by divers of the Royal Navy. Several further examinations by divers were made at the end of February.
§ Mr. SIMMONDSIt is not a fact that the important information as to the position of the engine switches has not yet been determined and, in view of the public need of clearing up the cause of this accident, will my right hon. Friend see that further attempts to inspect this hull are made?
§ Sir P. SASSOONI believe that all the information of any value which can be taken from the wreck has already been obtained.
§ Captain DOWERWhen will the inquiry be completed?
§ Sir P. SASSOONI cannot say to-day; the coroner's inquest is, I believe, resuming to-day.