HC Deb 04 July 1951 vol 489 cc2300-1
22. Mr. C. I. Orr-Ewing

asked the Secretary of State for Air how much longer he plans to keep the Dakota aircraft in Transport Command in service; and what aircraft will be used to replace them.

Mr. Crawley

The Dakota has already been replaced by the Valetta in Transport Command. Replacement has also been carried out in the Middle East Air Force and it is planned to complete replacement in the Far East by the end of this year.

Brigadier Head

Does not the Under-Secretary consider that the present situation with regard to transport aircraft in the R.A.F. is thoroughly unsatisfactory and requires immediate steps to increase the number?

Mr. Crawley

No, Sir.

Brigadier Head

rose

Mr. Speaker

This Question concerns one type of aircraft, not the whole situation.

23. Mr. C. I. Orr-Ewing

asked the Secretary of State for Air what will be the standard aircraft for use by Transport Command when the current supply of Hastings is exhausted.

Mr. Crawley

The replacement for the Hastings has not yet been settled, but it is likely to be a British made four-engined jet aircraft.

Mr. Orr-Ewing

If no replacement has yet been ordered, would it not be wise to carry on with the production of these useful aircraft until such time as replacement is available? If not, may we not be left in a difficult situation in connection with carrying our troops?

Mr. Crawley

I think we have enough now and in prospect to carry on until we get replacements.

Brigadier Head

In view of the fact that the Under-Secretary of State thinks we have enough now, is it not remarkable that the airborne brigade was recently sent to Cyprus in an aircraft carrier and not flown out there?