asked the Secretary of State for Air whether ho has received information that certain Powers in the Mediterranean have already largely adopted hangars that are underground and bomb-proof; and whether he is prepared to obtain estimates for similar hangars in parts of the Empire where local conditions make such constructions possible or economical?

The answer to the first part of the question is in the negative. As regards the second part, the desirability of constructing underground hangars where local conditions are favourable has already received careful consideration, but, generally, the cost of such constructions, as compared with that of the normal design of hangar, would render such a scheme prohibitive.

Is the hon. Gentleman aware that the inadequacy of the air defences of the key bases along our main lines of communication in the Mediterranean for imports and exports is causing considerable alarm?