HC Deb 21 November 1912 vol 44 c504W
Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

asked whether we have any airship equivalent in size and power to a Zeppelin or any airship capable of travelling at the rate of sixty miles an hour?

Mr. CHURCHILL

No, Sir.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

asked how many aeroplanes belonging to the Navy are capable of a speed of seventy miles per hour; and how many naval pilots can fly over sea or across country at the speed?

Mr. CHURCHILL

It is not in the public interest to give the information asked for in the first part of the question. With regard to the second part, I am happy to say that we have many naval flyers who can fly over the sea or across country at speeds approaching seventy miles per hour and upwards.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether he is aware that a Zeppelin airship passed over Sheer-ness on the night of 14th October; and what inquiries he has made in reference thereto?

Mr. CHURCHILL

I caused inquiries to be made and have ascertained that an unknown aircraft was heard over Sheerness about 7 p.m. on the evening of 14th October. Flares were lighted at East-church, but the aircraft did not make a landing. There is nothing in the evidence to indicate the nationality of the aircraft.