HC Deb 10 December 1945 vol 417 cc5-6
12. Air-Commodore Harvey

asked the Minister of Supply and of Aircraft Production whether aircraft charter companies whose aircraft were requisitioned at the beginning of the war are to be given preference in being allotted R.A.F. aircraft which are now for sale.

Mr. Wilmot

An invitation to open tender has been issued for the light aircraft now being disposed of. I regret, therefore, that it would not be possible to do as the hon. and gallant Member suggests.

Air-Commodore Harvey

Will the Minister consider the problem of small operators who, at the beginning of the war, had perhaps one aircraft, which was taken over, and give them a chance to buy back similar aircraft that are now being disposed of?

Mr. Wilmot

The aircraft that were requisitioned were paid for at a very generous rate. It is open to those whose aircraft were requisitioned to put in tenders, but I will certainly consider the point made by the hon. and gallant Member in regard to future sales.

Squadron-Leader Sir Gifford Fox

Have all the tenders got to be put in by post?