§ 32. Sir T. Mooreasked the Secretary of State for the Colonies what results have so far been secured as a result of his efforts to have Prestwick Pioneer aircraft considered for use, where suitable, in the Colonial Empire; and what further steps he will take to ensure the sale of these aircraft in those Colonies for which they are particularly adapted.
§ Mr. J. AmeryIn January of this year my right hon. Friend drew attention of Colonial Administrations to the special characteristics of the Twin Pioneer Aircraft, but he has not as yet received information of the placing of any new orders in the Colonies. It rests with the Colonies themselves or the airlines based there to decide whether to place orders. My right hon. Friend will continue to keep them informed of developments in the design of Pioneer aircraft, with particular reference to features which affect their suitability for use in the Colonies.
§ Sir T. MooreWhilst appreciating to the full the willing help given in this matter by my right hon. Friend and those in his Department, may I ask them all to bear in mind that if substantial colonial orders could be given for this aircraft it might well save this gallant little company from extinction, and also avoid the dismissal and the hated redundancy of hundreds of skilled craftsmen?
§ Mr. AmeryHaving had some experience of the Twin Pioneer in tropical 1516 countries when I was at the War Office, I feel a great deal of sympathy with what my hon. Friend has just said.