HC Deb 09 May 1956 vol 552 cc1202-3
34. Mr. de Freitas

asked the Secretary of State for Air to what extent the new units to carry troops of the Army strategic reserve are equipped with Pioneer aircraft; whether this aircraft is single engine or twin-engined; and how many fully-equipped troops can be carried in each aircraft.

Mr. Birch

The single-engine Pioneer is being supplied and each aircraft will carry four fully equipped men. The unit in the Far East has all its equipment; equipment of the units in the Middle East and in this country will be complete very shortly.

Mr. de Freitas

Is not this just nibbling at the problem of moving this important strategic reserve? When can we expect larger and better aircraft of this type, and also big aircraft like the Blackburn Beverley?

Mr. Birch

These aircraft are not intended for strategic moves. They are intended for tactical moves in a situation where there is internal security difficulty. The Beverleys and Britannias will be used for the strategic reserve, and we already have some Beverleys in service.

Mr. de Freitas

Is it true that some of these aircraft will be moved in Beverleys?

Mr. Birch

Certainly. The single-engine Pioneer is transportable in a Beverley.