There was some dissatisfaction at the tepid answer that was
given on Monday to a demand for information as to the steps that the Government was taking to carry out Mr. Baldwin's promise that there would be no profiteering as a result of the decision to treble the air force. All that Sir Philip Sassoon could say was that the Government were confident that " the aircraft industry would itself be most ready to meet the requirements of the Government in the matter." In the opinion of many members what is required is that the system of costing that existed during the War should be reintro- duced so far as the aircraft industry is concerned, with full powers for Government officials to inspect all books. Constituency considerations, if no others, demand that strong action should be taken, for there is no doubt that though the electors are not unwilling to shoulder the necessary burdens for the expansion of the air force they are uneasy about it and would be quick to detect and resent any exploitation of the present emergency. * * * *
Previous page
