§ 21. Wing-Commander Geoffrey Cooperasked the Minister of Supply and of Aircraft Production what was the state of progress towards completion of the Short Shetland flying boat at the time of the explosion; what was its average cruising 770 speed and maximum range with full fuel load; and how many are there under construction.
§ Mr. WilmotThe Shetland flying boat had been completed as a military aircraft, and at the time of its loss was undergoing official trials; these were well advanced and the aircraft was due shortly to return to the makers for conversion for civil use. Its average cruising speed was about 175 miles per hour and its maximum range, with a full fuel load, was about 4,000 miles. One other prototype is under construction.
§ Wing-Commander CooperIn view of the figures given by my right hon. Friend indicating the suitability of this particular design for use on the Atlantic run and also for the Empire routes, and in view of the tremendous expense involved in developing this design, is it intended to put this aircraft into production for use on civil air lines?
§ Mr. WilmotThe matter is under consideration by the Minister of Civil Aviation.