§ 47. Captain Harold Balfourasked the Prime Minister whether he can make any announcement on the rate of growth of Continental Air Forces during the past 18 months; whether he can give an assurance that, when the present Home Defence Force air expansion programme is completed, we shall be in a position of parity in first-line aircraft with any country within striking distance of our shores; and, if not, whether any extension of the expansion scheme is under consideration by the Government?
§ Sir J. SimonHis Majesty's Government keep under constant review the position of air forces in various countries. The programme of His Majesty's Government is likewise kept under review, and the necessary steps are taken to give effect to the Government's declared policy. This policy has been plainly stated on several occasions. It is to create and maintain an Air Force which will form an effective deterrent and insurance of peace, and which in the unhappy event of war would be able to meet a potential enemy on equal terms.
§ Captain BalfourCan the right hon. Gentleman say if that definition of our policy is translated into parity; or could it be interpreted as being fulfilled with something less than parity?
§ Sir J. SimonParity, as I understand it, is a simple conception, but, as my hon. and gallant Friend knows, it involves many complicated technical factors. I wish to make it quite plain that the answer I have given is not going back on any declaration either of the Prime Minister or of his predecessors.
§ Mr. G. GriffithsWhen the expansion is completed, shall we send for the Germans to come and see it?