HC Deb 02 June 1943 vol 390 cc178-9
16. Captain Strickland

asked the Minister of Aircraft Production whether, in view of the decision to establish the Air Transport Command and of the great and growing importance of air transport, it is the intention to encourage British production by furnishing that command generously and as soon' as possible with British-made aeroplanes?

18. Mr. David Adams

asked the Minister of Aircraft Production whether he has a statement to make as to the proposed equipment of Air Transport Command in process of establishment?

The Minister of Aircraft Production (Sir Stafford Cripps)

My constant endeavour is to supply the Royal Air Force with all the aircraft they require, whether for the Air Transport Command or for other purposes. As was explained in the House yesterday, the Government are taking energetic steps to produce civil aircraft types to the fullest extent compatible with the maintenance of the maximum war effort.

Captain Strickland

Will the right hon. and learned Gentleman give an assurance that, as far as possible, these transport types will be British made?

Sir S. Cripps

Certainly, Sir, the ones that my Ministry are making an effort to produce are all British planes.