§ Mr. Perkinsasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that the American flying boat "Bermuda Clipper" is equipped with mechanical de-icers; and whether, in view of the fact 1488W that this machine was able to attempt to rescue the survivors of the British flying boat "Cavalier" when forced down by ice formation, he will take immediate steps to fit a mechanical de-icer to British flying boats flying in areas where ice is likely to be encountered?
Captain BalfourI understand that the American flying boat "Bermuda Clipper" is equipped with mechanical de-icers. The flying boat "Cavalier" complied with the British regulations in that it had been treated with paste for preventing ice formation. In practice, the use of paste, provided that it is applied in the correct manner, has proved satisfactory. In the circumstances my right hon. Friend is not prepared, on the information at present available, to insist upon the fitting of a mechanical device to British flying boats flying in areas where ice formation is likely, having regard to the considerable structural alteration that would be required. Until the conclusions of the report of the Chief Inspector of Accidents are published I would ask my hon. Friend not to accept suggestions as to the possible causes of the accident to the "Cavalier."