asked the Secretary of State for Air the number of police officers who have been specially attached to his Department from Scotland Yard or other police departments for the purpose of inquiring into the present system of alleged aerodrome thefts; and whether the expense of these special inquiries is borne by his Department or by the various police departments?

The answer to the first part of the question is that two police officers were detailed from Scotland Yard for the purpose of conducting special inquiries in connection with suspected thefts at Henlow, and to the second that the expense involved will be borne by the Air Ministry.

Can the Under-Secretary say whether there are any private police officers attached to the Air Force?

Does the hon. Member mean from Scotland Yard?

May I ask whether it is permissible to lock the doors of a parked aeroplane?

Mr. BECKETT:

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is now in a position to make any statement with regard to the supply of petrol, oil, and other Government stores to Henlow aerodrome; what amounts of petrol and oil were used at this aerodrome in 1928; how many flying hours were accounted for; and what comparison the average of petrol and oil used to flying hours bears to the average used under similar conditions?

Inquiry is being made into certain suspected thefts of stores at this aerodrome, and although there is no reason to believe, on the information at present available, that thefts of petrol are involved, I think it would be preferable to make no detailed statement at the present time upon a matter which must be regarded as sub judice. I can say, however, in general terms that, so far as a comparison is possible between Henlow and other Air Force stations, it does not appear that the consumption of petrol at Henlow has been excessive.

Mr. BECKETT:

Have any steps been taken by the Air Ministry to ascertain whether the flying hours reported in the log have actually been flown?

The whole situation at this aerodrome is sub judice. A full inquiry is being made, and, until the results of that inquiry are available, I would rather not say anything more.

Mr. BECKETT:

Can the Under-Secretary assure the House that the inquiry will embrace, not only the aircraftsmen, the rank and file, but from the officer commanding downwards?

A full inquiry is being made.

Who is conducting the inquiry?

The Public Prosecutor.

Mr. BECKETT:

Was any notice given to this aerodrome before the inquiry was instituted; and on what date was it instituted?

I should like notice of that question.