§ 18. Mr. Peter Freemanasked the Secretary of State for Air how many helicopters have been ordered by his Department; and when it is anticipated they will be ready for use.
§ Mr. A. HendersonVarious promising experiments with helicopters are being conducted for the Ministry of Supply. Development has not yet, however, 2993 reached a stage when service orders for these aircraft can be placed by my Department.
§ Mr. FreemanCan the Minister say when he will be in a position to order any, or to take any steps in that direction?
§ Mr. HendersonNo, Sir. That depends on the progress of this development work.
§ Air-Commodore HarveyDoes the Minister realise that the makers of the helicopters are offering them to civil aviation, and if they are doing that, why cannot he take advantage of it?
§ Mr. HendersonI was not aware that that was the position.