§ 53. Mr. Manderasked the Secretary of State for Air whether the results of the ballot taken by the Imperial Airways, Limited, with regard to the method of representation to be made use of by their staff can now be announced?
Captain BalfourYes, Sir. I understand that the ballots taken on this question have indicated a preference on the part both of the captains and of the first officers of Imperial Airways for representation by the British Air Line Pilots Association.
§ Mr. ManderCan the hon. and gallant Gentleman give the figures of the ballot?
Captain BalfourIn regard to the captains class, the total number entitled to vote was 66; the votes for the domestic committee were 21; the votes for the British Air Line Pilots Association were 38; blank ballot papers were three; and ballot papers not returned were four. As regards the larger number, in the first officers category, the total number entitled to vote was 108; votes for the domestic committee were four; votes for the British Air Line Pilots Association were 91; blank ballot papers were three; and ballot papers not returned were 10.
§ Mr. MontagueDoes the hon. and gallant Gentleman consider that that result justifies the campaign inaugurated in this House?
Captain BalfourThe campaign was not inaugurated in this House. A ballot on any question on which there is discussion is always good, whether it be a national ballot or on any other issue.
§ Mr. DaltonDoes it not justify the removal of certain persons from Imperial Airways who were obstructing this ballot?