HC Deb 01 March 1939 vol 344 c1241
15. Mr. Perkins

asked the Secretary of State for Air the total number of scheduled services by Imperial Airways, Limited, from this country to Singapore that have been completed on time, and the total number that have been late since 1st January, 1939?

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

Out of a total of 22 scheduled services due to arrive at Singapore from England between 1st January and 22nd February, 1939, 12 arrived late and 10 arrived punctually.

Mr. Perkins

Will my hon. and gallant Friend compare those figures with similar figures for the Royal Dutch services?

Captain Cazalet

What is the cause of these delays?

Captain Balfour

Four were due to engine trouble, six to bad weather, and two to missed connections with other aircraft which were carrying mails.

Mr. R. Gibson

What causes the delays?

Mr. Mander

How is it that the Dutch services are much more effective than those of Imperial Airways?

Captain Balfour

I cannot accept that the Dutch services, taking things all round and taking all factors into consideration, are more efficient than Imperial Airways.

Mr. Mander

Is the hon. and gallant Gentleman aware that that is not the view of the passengers?