HC Deb 04 February 1947 vol 432 cc340-1W
Mr. Granville

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation if he is satisfied that the most modern equipment and latest safety devices are now available to central airports in this country.

Mr. Lindgren

Yes, Sir. In accordance with my noble Friend's policy of the paramount importance of safety in air travel, the latest safety devices have been or are being adopted as equipment becomes available.

Mr. Granville

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation if he will make a statement upon recent accidents in civil aviation; and when he proposes to set up an inquiry to ascertain in the causes.

Mr. Lindgren

If the hon. Member is referring to accidents to British civil registered aircraft in the United Kingdom, the accident to the British Overseas Airways Corporation Dakota at Stowting in Kent on 11th January is the most recent. The hearing of evidence took place in public on 23rd January and subsequent days. It is my noble Friend's intention to publish the report of the Chief Inspector of Accidents. If, however, the hon. Member has in mind the accident to the Dakota aircraft on the register of Southern Rhodesia on 25th January, consultations are proceeding with the Government of Southern Rhodesia as to whether the investigation shall be conducted in public or in private.