HC Deb 19 July 1939 vol 350 cc378-9
20. Mr. Thorne

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he can give any information in connection with the British bombing squadrons that were sent over to France; what was the number of machines sent and when the next flight over France will take place?

Sir K. Wood

Yes, Sir. On 11th July, 108 bombing aircraft with 378 personnel on board took part in a flight over French territory. The flight was completed by all aircraft according to plan. A further flight is taking place to-day.

Mr. Thorne

Can the right hon. Gentleman give any explanation of the mysterious bomber planes which went over this country last night?

Sir K. Wood

I do not think there was anything mysterious about it. The flight carried out by Wellington bombers over London yesterday was part of a routine training flight arranged by bomber commands.

Mr. Thorne

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that many people thought they were German bombing planes?

Sir K. Wood

That must have been in the circles of the hon. Member.

Mr. Crossley

Is it not very impressive that not a single aeroplane had to come down in a foreign country?

21. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether His Majesty's Government propose to arrange practice flights of Royal Air Force squadrons to Poland, Turkey, Rumania and other countries?

Sir K. Wood

I hope it will be possible to arrange other practice flights in addition to those referred to in my reply to the hon. Member for Plaistow (Mr. Thorne), but I am not at present in a position to give any details.

Mr. Dalton

Will the right hon. Gentleman consider the desirability of stationing part of the Royal Air Force in Poland during this summer?

Sir K. Wood

That is another matter.