HC Deb 11 May 1938 vol 335 c1582
56. Mr. Simmonds

asked the Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster what steps he has taken to counteract the blow to British aeronautical prestige, especially in South America, caused by the despatch of the British air mission to the United States of America?

Earl Winterton

My Noble Friend is unable to accept the implication contained in my hon. Friend's question, and does not consider any such action as he suggests to be required.

Mr. Simmonds

Is not my Noble Friend aware that it has been widely stated abroad that not only the quantity but the quality of British aircraft is disturbing the Government, and can he not, therefore, give a definite assurance to the House that the Government are entirely satisfied with the quality of British aircraft?

Earl Winterton

I have already answered a number of questions on that point, and I propose to refer to it tomorrow; I can only say that the opinions of my hon. Friend on this subject are not borne out by other critics of the Air Ministry who have been pressing us for a long time.

Mr. Gallacher

Is the British aircraft industry satisfied with the quality of the Government?