HC Deb 09 May 1951 vol 487 cc1923-4
3. Lord Malcolm Douglas-Hamilton

asked the Secretary of State for Air what representations he has received from the Admiralty on the advisability of unifying Naval Aviation and Royal Air Force Coastal Command under central Admiralty control; and whether he will make a statement.

The Secretary of State for Air (Mr. Arthur Henderson)

This matter has not been under examination since the principles governing the operation of shore-based aircraft in naval warfare were reviewed in 1946. The second part of the Question does not therefore arise.

Lord Malcolm Douglas-Hamilton

Is the Secretary of State aware that the 1st May issue of "Aviation Report," a copy of which I sent him, states that the Government are planning a new move to unify naval aviation and the Royal Air Force Coastal Command under central Admiralty control? While having the greatest admiration for and pride in the Royal Navy, may I ask the right hon. and learned Gentleman, particularly in view of the excellent operational record of Coastal Command during the last war, if he will give an assurance that the House will have full time to consider any move so serious as this, which may mean the transference of the Royal Air Force Coastal Command to the Royal Navy?

Mr. Henderson

No discussions have been taking place, and no transfer of Coastal Command is contemplated.

Surgeon Lieut.-Commander Bennett

Does the right hon. and learned Gentle- man not agree that as Coastal Command was under naval operational control in the war, and is at present quite inadequate and not being looked after properly, it may be handled more sympathetically and with more keenness by the Royal Navy?

Mr. Henderson

No, Sir.

Commander Noble

In the last war, did not Coastal Command operate very successfully under the orders of the Royal Navy?