§ 88. Captain PLUGGEasked the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence whether his attention has been called to 2197 the fact that the British aircraft industry is receiving a severe set-back as a result of the inability of aircraft manufacturers to supply aircraft for commercial air-lines in Australia; and whether his plans for aeroplane construction in this country for defence purposes take into consideration the need for commercial development on the lines suggested?
§ Sir P. SASSOONI have been asked to reply. My Noble Friend is aware of the recent decision of His Majesty's Government in the Commonwealth of Australia to permit imports into Australia of aircraft of other than British construction, to which I assume my hon. and gallant Friend refers. As regards the second part of the question, full consideration is being, and will continue to be, given, to civil aviation requirements in all plans formulated for the production of aircraft in this country for defence purposes.
§ Captain PLUGGEDoes not my right hon. Friend think that it is desirable that no aircraft except of British manufacture should be used on Empire air routes?
§ Sir P. SASSOONNo aircraft except of British manufacture are at present being used on the Australian route.