HC Deb 05 April 1939 vol 345 cc2760-1
21. Mr. Day

asked the Secretary of State for Air the results of the latest experiments that have taken place in the development of oil engines for the purpose of incorporating same in aircraft for use in trans-ocean services; and whether it is proposed to fit any of the civil airliners built for this purpose with this type of engine?

Captain Balfour

Progress is being made in the research which is being conducted by several engine firms with a view to developing the compression ignition engine, but no type has so far been produced which can compare favourably with the petrol engine in technical performance requirements. It is not proposed to fit this type of engine to the aircraft at present under construction and to which the hon. Member refers.

Mr. Day

Are we to understand that experiments are still being continued, and will they be continued?

Captain Balfour

The experiments are being continued by several engineering firms in this country and by research engineers throughout the countries of the world.

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