§ Mr. JOYNSON-HICKSasked the Under-Secretary of State to the Air Ministry how many machines have been dismantled and reduced to the condition of scrap in England since the Armistice; and whether he has received any and, if so, what offers for purchase of such machines; and (2) how many aeroplanes were on charge on the 11th November 1918; and how many have since been destroyed?
§ Major-General SEELYThe number of aeroplanes on charge at 11th November was 20,850. The number of seaplanes 1,248. Since then, and up to the date of the last Return, 2,142 obsolete machines1600W have been reduced to produce, and in addition 1,823 machines of standard types which have been damaged and were not repaired have also been reduced. These figures include 2,460 which were reduced to produce in England. The disposal of aircraft surplus to requirements is undertaken by the Ministry of Munitions, and my hon. Friend will perhaps address to that Department any questions relating to offers of purchase.