§ 20. Mr. Sorensenasked the Secretary of State for Air whether, in view of the recent fatal accident at an aerodrome, he will publish figures of accidents at aerodromes due to propellers or otherwise; 1266 and whether he is considering the issuing of regulations to prevent or minimise the possibility of such accidents?
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Air (Captain Harold Balfour)Since January, 1934, four people have been killed at civil aerodromes by revolving airscrews, and seven injured. In all cases except one the accident would appear to have been due to momentary thoughtlesness or the neglect of normal precautions. The danger of a revolving airscrew would appear to be so well known that the issue of regulations on the subject has not hitherto been considered necessary, but my right hon. Friend has given instructions for the question to be reviewed.
§ Mr. SorensenMay I take it that in that consideration it will be possible to consider providing some kind of simple guard round the propeller when the aircraft is on the ground?
§ Captain BalfourThat raises considerable technical difficulties, but, nevertheless, it shall be examined when we deal with the matter.
§ Mr. Grant-FerrisIs it not a fact that already there are several regulations in force to avoid these accidents?
§ Captain BalfourThere are regulations in force with regard to the Royal Air Force, but there are no regulations in force with regard to civil aircraft.
§ Mr. Robert GibsonWere those four casualties due to the failure to observe the regulations in force?
§ Captain BalfourNo, Sir. As I said in the answer, they were "due to momentary thoughtlessness or the neglect of normal precautions."
§ Mr. SorensenWill the hon. and gallant Gentleman issue a report on this question when it has been considered?
§ Captain BalfourNo, Sir, but I will let the hon. Member know.