HC Deb 06 May 1913 vol 52 c1879W
Mr. AMERY

asked the Secretary for War what provision there is for officers of His Majesty's forces stationed in Ireland who may wish to learn to fly?

Colonel SEELY

No difference has hitherto been made between officers stationed in various parts of the Kingdom who desire to join the Royal Flying Corps. If it is found that there are special difficulties in the case of any command the matter shall be rectified.

Mr. AMERY

also asked what accommodation, if any, is being provided in Ireland for the housing of Government aeroplanes?

Colonel SEELY

The question of establishing a station for a unit of the Flying Corps in Ireland is now under consideration.

Mr. AMERY

further asked (1) the Secretary for War, in view of the exceptional opportunities for flying afforded by India and South Africa, if he will state what provision is being made for the training in airmanship of His Majesty's forces in those countries; (2) in view of the importance of securing rapid transmission of information to Government headquarters in case of native risings, if he will state what provisions is being made for the supply of aeroplanes and for securing facilities for training in airmanship for His Majesty's forces stationed in British East Africa, Nigeria, and other Crown Colonies; and (3) if he will state how many aeroplanes in the posession of the Imperial military authorities there are at present in India, South Africa, East Africa, West Africa, Egypt, the Soudan, Gibraltar, Malta, Cyprus, Aden, and the West Indies, respectively; how many garages; and what staff for construction or repairs?

Colonel SEELY

The Royal Flying Corps has been in existence for only one year, and it has not been found possible, even supposing it to be desirable, to extend it to the places named in these questions.