HC Deb 27 January 1943 vol 386 c488
35. Commander Bower

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether the Chief of the Naval Air Services is a qualified air pilot; and, if so, with how many flying hours to his credit?

Mr. George Hall

I presume that the hon. and gallant Member's Question relates to the late Chief of Naval Air Services, as that post lapsed on the appointment of a Fifth Sea Lord and an Assistant Chief of the Naval Staff (Air) announced on 22nd January. On that assumption the answer to the first part of the Question is in the negative, and the second part, therefore, does not arise.

Commander Bower

While fully appreciating the outstanding services of the late Chief of Naval Air Services, is this an indication that in the future the high direction of naval war will be in the hands of younger and more experienced men?

Viscountess Astor

Certainly not.

Mr. Hall

I must leave hon. Members to draw their own conclusions about that matter.