asked the Secretary of State for Air how many fatal accidents occurred during the past year in the Royal Air Force; m how many cases were these due to defects in engines or machines; and whether he can give similar information with regard to the French air force?

As regards the first part of the question, the total number of fatal accidents in the Royal Air Force during the period 9th July, 1924, to 8th July, 1925, was 44. As regards the second part, two were attributed to defects in engines and none to defects in machines. As regards the last part, I regret that no information can be given.

Can my hon. and gallant Friend assure the House that in the opinion of the Air Ministry the machines used by the Royal Air Force are in every way equal to the machines used by the French air force in air-capacity and air-worthiness?

As far as I am aware, they are.