§ 24. Sir Wavell Wakefieldasked the Secretary of State for Air if post-war requirements for civil aviation will include the carrying of lifeboats by British aircraft flying on ocean routes.
§ Sir A. SinclairI am advised that a general requirement of this character is not contemplated. The carriage of lifeboats, dinghies or rafts may, however, be stipulated for flights by United Kingdom aircraft on regular services if this is considered necessary in the interest of safety.
§ Sir W. WakefieldIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that United States constructors of aircraft are making provision for the carrying of lifeboats in ocean-going aircraft, and does this not mean that the British aircraft industry will be handicapped in the post-war flying of ocean 803 routes if British aircraft manufacturers are not encouraged to provide lifeboats in ocean-going aircraft?
§ Sir A. SinclairThe answer I gave could not possibly mean that. My answer says that the carriage of lifeboats, dinghies or rafts may be stipulated for flights by U.K. aircraft on regular services if this is considered necessary.