§ 16. Mr. de Freitasasked the Minister of Aviation what research is being undertaken into the development of large fire extinguishers which, in the event of an aircraft crashing within the control radius of an airfield, can be launched by rocket on a beam to blanket the aircraft with foam.
§ Mr. RipponResearch into various methods of extinguishing aircraft fires is being undertaken. I am aware that an airborne device has been suggested, but the particular method proposed does not show sufficient promise to justify support.
§ Mr. de FreitasWill the Parliamentary Secretary consider what has been done in the United States in this direction and also the details recently published by the Fire Brigades Union of a scheme along these lines?
§ Mr. RipponI understand that this idea has been considered in the United States, but at the moment it is purely a study project and no research or development has taken place. I am informed that there are considerable technical difficulties.