HC Deb 02 March 1938 vol 332 cc1095-6
55. Mr. Everard

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air the number of gliders used for training purposes and the number of persons under instruction in gliding in England, Germany and Poland, respectively?

Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead

The number of gliders used for instructional purposes in Great Brtiain is understood to be approximately 90, and the number of members of gliding clubs about 1,000. It is not practicable to say how many of these members are actually under instruction. I am unable to say how many gliders are in use in Germany or Poland, but I am informed that in Poland there are 30,000 club members, of whom 10,000 are pilots, and in Germany 50,000 club members. The number of pilots in Germany is not known.

Mr. Everard

Will my hon. and gallant Friend consider, in view of the great discrepancy in the figures of persons being trained in gliding in this country and in Continental countries, setting up a committee to see whether we can improve the conditions of gliding so that we can get more people interested?

Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead

I will see that the hon. Member's suggestion is considered.

Mr. George Griffiths

Are not the Government gliding all the time?