HC Deb 15 June 1938 vol 337 cc208-9
36. Captain P. Macdonald

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether any decision has yet been reached with regard to the evolution of a satisfactory Empire air base either at Southampton, Langstone, or elsewhere; and whether he can make a statement on this subject?

Captain Balfour

I regret I am not yet able to add anything to the reply which I gave to my hon. and learned Friend the Member for Leicester, East (Mr. Lyons) on 1st June, except to say that I hope to visit Southampton with officers of my Department in this connection on Friday.

Mr. Boothby

In view of the great advantages of the establishment of a base at Portsmouth, would it not be possible to resume negotiations with the Portsmouth Council?

Captain Balfour

All these alternative proposals have their particular merits according to their characteristics, and I wish to go to Southampton in order to make first-hand acquaintance with this problem and the advantages and disadvantages which that place has in relation to the other proposals.