Department of Air File: Mr. Downer (MP) Parliamentary Question re Flying Saucers

This file contains correspondence and documentation regarding a parliamentary question posed by Mr. Downer, MP, to the Minister of State for Air, W. McMahon, concerning 'flying saucers.' The document includes a letter from the Air Member for Technical Services to the Minister, dated November 1953, which outlines the Air Force's perspective on the subject. The author categorizes flying saucers into two concepts: mysterious missiles from outer space, for which he states no evidence of existence has been found, and the technical concept of an aircraft designer. He notes that Wing Commander Wood, an expert in aerodynamics, assisted in this assessment. The author suggests that while 'saucer' shapes might offer advantages in controlling flight at supersonic speeds, conventional aircraft shapes are currently more efficient. He mentions the possibility of future development of circular aircraft using ram jet engines but notes there is no immediate need for them. The file also includes an extract from Hansard dated November 20, 1953, detailing the parliamentary exchange where Minister McMahon explains that the Royal Australian Air Force, along with the Royal Air Force and Royal Canadian Air Force, has received reports but has not identified the phenomena. He suggests that some sightings may be optical illusions following meteorites. The file also contains administrative instructions for the compilation and use of Department of Air files.