asked the Prime Minister, in view of his pledge to make the British Air Force equal in strength to that of any other country within striking distance of our shores, which great Powers he includes in that category at the present moment?

I cannot amplify the statements already made on behalf of His Majesty's Government.

Why does the formula, not include "within striking distance of the British Empire"?

Does the right hon. Gentleman not consider that unless we can be told the countries upon which the Government are basing their calculations, it is difficult for the House to form a just appreciation of the expansion programme?

The matters comprised in this question have been very fully debated in the House, and certainly will be debated again. I think assurances have been given which will convey satisfaction to my hon. Friend. It is a little difficult to make statements of a very definite nature Lo the House on a matter of this kind. The standard was laid down for this country, and it is for this country that the Government are primarily responsible. My hon. Friend the Member for West Islington (Mr. Montague), whom I do not think we had the pleasure of seeing in the last House, may remember that there were