§ 43. Lieut.-Commander Fletcherasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that, prior to the departure of Mr. Govind P. Nair on his fatal flight, the Air Ministry had received communications from instructors and other authorities that Mr. Nair was not fit to hold an "A" licence; why, in those circumstances, Mr. Nair was allowed to fly; and what steps he is taking to prevent similar occurrences in future?
§ Lieut.-Colonel MuirheadAlthough doubts had been expressed in certain unofficial quarters regarding Mr. Nair's flying capabilities, there were no adequate grounds for preventing the flight in question, as the pilot had already satisfied the requirements for the grant of a Class "A" pilot's licence, and the flight did not infringe the regulations. As regards the last part of the question, it is the Air Ministry policy to allow private pilots the greatest possible measure of freedom provided they fulfil the prescribed regulations.
§ Lieut.-Commander FletcherWere the Air Ministry under any doubt whatsoever that this gentleman was quite unable to fly, and is it not a fact that they were informed by quite competent expert authorities that if he were allowed to de— part on this flight, there must be fatal consequences?
§ Lieut.-Colonel MuirheadNo; I said in my answer that doubts had been expressed in certain unofficial quarters in regard to Mr. Nair's flying capabilities, but that he had satisfied the conditions for the grant of an "A" licence, and we saw no reason to interfere.
§ Mr. MontagueHas the Ministry any knowledge of how this impecunious gentleman came into possession of this aeroplane?
§ Lieut.-Colonel MuirheadI do not think that is our responsibility.
§ Lieut.-Commander FletcherIs it not the case that the qualification for the possession of an "A" licence is only three hours solo flying a year? In view of the unsatisfactory nature of the reply, I beg to give notice that I shall raise the matter at an early opportunity.