R.A.F. ESTIMATES

Hokitika Guardian, 11 March 1930, Page 3

R.A.F. ESTIMATES

NEAR EIGHTEEN MILLION

(United Press Association—By CJectr* Telegraph—Copyright).

LONDON, March 8. A White Paper discloses that the British Air Estimates for 1930 have a "net total of £17,850,000. This is an ■ increase of £890,000 over 1929. Lord Thomson, explanatory memorandum says : “The trials of It. ICO and R.lOl have shown a satisfactory measure of success, despite delays inevitable in a field of so novel experiments. Both airships have proved that they are thoroughly stable and easy to control. R.lOl rode at the mast through weather of exceptional severity for a month on end, and R.IOO attained a full speed of 81 miles an hour, which is equal to that of, the Graf Zeppelin. In accordance with the policy of safety first, it was decided to insert an additional section in R.lOl before undertaking the flight to India and back. I b is intended that R.lOl will carry out flights to Montreal in the late spring or summer, and will operate in the winter between Cardington and Jsmalia. Provision has been made for the development of mechanical means for moving the airsnips into and out of the sheds.” He added: “Generally speaking, the Air Estimates allow for a broad continuity of air policy. He outlined a home defence scheme which, he said, will not prejudice increases in the Ro”al Air Force, which are small, and it was desired to demonstrate again the Government’s earnest desire to avoid disastrous competition in air armaments. “ TTT o shall thus have a breathing space.” he said “in which to watch the '’ovelopment of the new spirit which pervades the pacific, international instruments, such as the treaty for the renunciation of war. and fhe Optional Clause. Tim Tmn/i.rial A invnys F o rvi' e to South Africa shook! mmmen'-fi wRb the seot'on between Alexandria and N' , "' T ’ r ’'’- Tanganvika. in the n etumn of 1930. and the through servi e to Capetown in the spring of 1931.