§ Mr. ROSEasked the Secretary of State for Air the dimensions (diameter and length) of the 5,000,000 cubic feet airship now under construction at Cardington; and what is the estimated weight, without load, of the ship and machinery when completed?
§ Sir S. HOAREIn answer to the first part of the question, the diameter of the airship is 130 feet and her length 730 feet. As regards the second part, the Air Ministry is working to the same weight as that laid down for her sister ship which is being built by the Airship Guarantee Company, namely, a maximum of 90 tons.
§ Mr. ROSEasked the Secretary of State for Air what is the ascertained lifting capacity, in tons, of the 5,000,000 cubic feet airship now under construction at Cardington?
§ Sir S. HOAREThe actual lifting capacity of the airship cannot be ascertained until the airship has been built; the estimated total lift is 150 tons.
§ Mr. ROSEasked the Secretary of State for Air what are the estimated weights of the following: 200 soldiers with their kits, ammunition, and equipment; the necessary crew and their baggage; and the stores, fuel, food, water, and furniture for a voyage not exceeding six days?
§ Sir S. HOAREThe estimate asked for in the first part of the question is approximately 30 tons; in the second, approximately 4 tons. As regards the last part of the question, the answer would depend upon the distance to be covered, the speed to be maintained, and other factors; but it may be stated that, in addition to the weights indicated above, sufficient fuel and stores could be carried, it is estimated, for a voyage of 3,000 to 4,000 miles.