HC Deb 01 May 1919 vol 115 c370W
Mr. A. M. SAMUEL

asked the Under-Secretary of State to the Air Ministry whether permission to private owners to fly aircraft shall be accorded only subject to their insuring themselves against liability for damage, so that innocent sufferers may be certain of recovering loss for proved damage to the commission of which they have not contributed?

Major-General SEELY

Every possible safeguard has been provided in the regulations for civil flying to prevent loss and damage to the public. The working of the Regulations will be carefully watched, but at present I do not think it would be advisable to adopt my hon. Friend's suggestion.

Mr. SAMUEL further

asked whether Government-owned and privately-owned aircraft are liable in times of peace for damage accidentally done by them to life and property?

Major-General SEELY

There is now no special law applying to damage done by aircraft, and therefore responsibility for damage of the nature referred to in my hon. Friend's question must be determined by the ordinary law unless and until fresh legislation is made.