§ 56. Mr. CHURCHILLasked the Minister for Co-ordination of Defence whether he is yet in a position, to make a statement upon the transference of the Fleet air-arm to the control of the Admiralty, or when he expects to be able to do so?
§ Sir T. INSKIPNo, Sir; but I am examining certain particular questions which have arisen as regards the working or organisation of the Fleet air-arm: They are questions concerning the provision of personnel, the period of service and reserves.
§ Mr. CHURCHILLIs the right hon. Gentleman not considering the general question of the transference of the Fleet air-arm?
§ Sir T. INSKIPI am taking the questions which arise first of all into consideration and, when I have satisfied myself as to the facts on those questions, I may be in a position to consider further questions.
§ Captain HAROLD BALFOURIn view of the contradictory statements of the right hon. Gentleman the Member for Epping (Mr. Churchill) in the Debate last week, that, first, some Admirals did not believe in the air-arm, and, secondly, that there is nobody more air-minded than Admirals, should the Government be content to hand over the development of this new science to such doubtful minds?