HC Deb 08 February 1939 vol 343 cc925-6
21. Mr. Perkins

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether the "Cavalier" was equipped with mechancial de-icers as fitted to Royal Air Force machines; and whether any American flying boats attempted to rescue the passengers?

The Under-Secretary of State for Air (Captain Harold Balfour)

The "Cavalier" was equipped with oil-heated carburettors, apparatus for heating both fuel and air intakes, protected fuel and oil tank vents, and other devices set out in Notice to Aircraft Owners and Ground Engineers Number 16 of 1938. The wings were not fitted with the pulsating device now in use on some Royal Air Force aircraft but were protected by the de-icing paste which has been extensively used on civil aircraft, and has been approved by my Department after research and trial for this purpose. In regard to the second part of the question, it is understood that a long range coastguard seaplane was reported to be over the area after the crash had occurred and that the "Bermuda Clipper" had left Bermuda to take part in the search. I would like, on behalf of my right hon, Friend, to take this opportunity of thanking all those who took part, or attempted to take part, in the rescue of the survivors of the accident.

Mr. Perkins

Is my hon. and gallant Friend getting a report on this accident, and will it be made public?

Captain Balfour

The Inspector of Accidents has himself gone out to make an investigation into the circumstances of the accident, and in accordance with the pledge given to the House by a preceding Air Minister, there will be issued a statement giving a summary of the general conclusions as to the cause of the accident.

Mr. Garro Jones

Having regard to the fact that the Royal Air Force do not consider this so-called de-icing paste to be effective, and having regard to the circumstances of this accident, will the hon. and gallant Gentleman's Department now reconsider their approval of that method?

Captain Balfour

No, Sir, I cannot agree with the hon. Gentleman. There has been, very considerable research and investigation into the de-icing problem, and if the hon. Gentleman likes, I will send him a brochure giving full details of that investigation.