HC Deb 08 March 1938 vol 332 cc1708-9
44. Sir J. Haslam

asked the President of the Board of Trade how many aeroplanes, military and civil, have been exported to the Scandinavian countries during 1936, and also 1937, giving if possible also the total from August last to date?

Mr. R. S. Hudson

Thirteen each and seven.

59 and 63. Mr. Shinwell

asked the President of the Board of Trade (1) how many of the 300 military aircraft exported in 1937 were delivered in Spain and to whom they were consigned;

(2) the numbers and types of modern aircraft exported in 1937?

Mr. Hudson

During the year 1937, 507 complete aeroplanes of United Kingdom manufacture were exported from this country. I am not in a position to state how many of these were of modern design or to indicate the types of aeroplanes exported. None was registered as consigned to Spain.

Mr. Shinwell

As regards the type of aircraft exported, is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the Under-Secretary stated last week that very few modern types were exported?

Mr. Hudson

That may well be so, but the information the hon. Member desires is not at the Board of Trade. If he wants it he must apply to the Air Ministry.

Mr. Shinwell

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that the question was addressed to the Air Ministry, and was transferred to the Board of Trade?

Mr. Garro Jones

Will the right hon. Gentleman also ascertain which Minister is responsible for giving permission for the export of up-to-date military aircraft to our potential enemies?

Mr. Shinwell

On a point of Order. I put down a question to the Air Ministry and it was transferred to the Board of Trade. Now, when I ask for a reply, the right hon. Gentleman informs me that I should apply to the Air Ministry. Will you give me your guidance, Mr. Speaker?

Mr. Speaker

I suggest that the hon. Member should put it down to both.