§ 73. Mr. Dayasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air how many collisions have occurred in mid-air between Royal Air Force aeroplanes during the previous 12 months; what has been the loss of life and the original cost of the machines involved in these accidents; and what steps have the Ministry and their expert advisers taken to further safeguard the personnel of the Royal Air Force from these accidents?
§ Sir P. SassoonDuring the period in question there have been 15 collisions in the air; in six of these one or more of the occupants were killed, the total deaths being 12. The original cost of the aircraft involved would be about £119,000 but this was not all loss, for in many instances the aircraft were not seriously damaged. All practicable steps are taken to eliminate the risk of collision in the air. In training units the aircraft are coloured yellow in order to render them more readily visible to pilots under training, while for years past training in the Royal Air Force has been particularly concentrated on making pilots observant of other aircraft in their vicinity.
§ Mr. DayCan the Under-Secretary say whether any new regulations have been issued in order to minimise the number of accidents?
§ Sir P. SassoonThey are always being considered.