HC Deb 18 June 1952 vol 502 cc1177-8
15. Mr. A. Henderson

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether he will make a statement on the report of the Inspector-General of the Royal Air Force following his investigation into jet aircraft accidents.

Mr. Ward

As I informed the hon. and learned Member on 28th May, the fatal accident rate for jet aircraft is now lower than that for comparable piston-engined types. Experience has shown that the prevention of accidents to jet aircraft requires measures of the same kind as with piston-engined aircraft, i.e., close attention to methods and standards of training, constant improvement of equipment and expert supervision of flying and maintenance.

The Inspector-General's report makes a number of detailed recommendations in these fields, for example, the prompt introduction of modifications to equipment. The report has been fully considered by the Air Council, and several of its recommendations are already being implemented. Others, especially in the equipment field, can only be realised in the course of time.

Mr. Henderson

Does the Inspector-General recommend the use of an intermediate jet trainer?

Mr. Ward

Yes, Sir. But there is every indication at the moment that the dual Vampire will be an excellent dual trainer.