HC Deb 10 September 1942 vol 383 c330W
Flight-Lieutenant Etherton

asked the Secretary of State for Air what is the date of the photograph released by the Air Ministry and published showing the Gien tank farm in occupied France before it was bombed; and whether an inquiry is being held into the matters which a comparison of the two photographs published reveals?

Captain Balfour

Particulars of the dates on which reconnaissance flights are carried out and of their objectives would certainly be of value to the enemy. Similarly the enemy would like to know the considerations that govern our bombing of particular places on particular occasions. In these circumstances, I regret that I am unable to give a detailed reply to this Question. The bombing of this exceptionally difficult target was remarkably successful and there is no issue calling for an inquiry.

Mr. Liddall

asked the Secretary of State for Air the dates of the photographs taken of Gien before and after bombing which were supplied by his Department and which were published in the Press on 30th August?

Sir A. Sinclair

I would refer my hon. Friend to the reply given to-day to my hon. and gallant Friend the Member for Stretford (Flight-Lieutenant Etherton).