§ 42. Mr. PERKINSasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air what progress has been made in 1936 towards starting a British air service over the North and South Atlantic; and when it is hoped to start these services?
§ Sir P. SASSOONSince the agreement announced to the House on 30th July last, negotiations have continued between the Governments of the United Kingdom, Canada and the Irish Free State, and with the United States Government, in regard to the establishment of the North Atlantic service. Active preparation of air bases, fully equipped with the necessary wireless and meteorological facilities, is in hand in the Irish Free State and Newfoundland. It is hoped that experimental flights will begin in the spring of 1937, and that the commencement of the regular service will follow as soon as sufficient experience has been gained. As regards the South Atlantic service, tenders have been received and are now under consideration. The date of commencement of this service depends upon the results of this examination.