asked the Secretary of State for Air how many flying boats will be completed in 1927; when it is expected the flying boats will make their first cruise as a self-contained unit in Eastern waters; and what will be the complete building and fitting-up cost of a flying boat for this cruise?

As regards the first part of the question, about 17 flying boats of all types are expected to be delivered during 1927, including those for use by the flight which is to operate in Far Eastern waters. As regards the second part, the present intention is that the first cruise shall take place in 1928. To reply to the last part would involve a disclosure of contract prices, which is contrary to established practice.

asked the Secretary of State for Air bow many men present themselves on an average each month for recruitment in His Majesty's Air Force, and how many are rejected, and for what principal reasons?

The total number of men who presented themselves for recruitment in the calendar year 1926 was 1,028. Of these, 258 were rejected on medical grounds and 391 on other grounds such as educational unfitness or age. The principal causes of rejection on medical grounds were dental defects, deformity of feet, heart disease, poor physique, respiratory diseases, defective vision and ear diseases.

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty how many men present themselves on an average each month for recruitment in His Majesty's Navy; and how many are rejected, and for what principal reasons?

During 1926 the average number of candidates who presented themselves each month for entry was 5,100, and the average monthly number rejected was 4,460. The main causes of rejection were defective vision, teeth and hearing, and under educational standard.