Imperial Air Convention Air Supremacy Badge circa 1916

A scarce First World War 1916 period gilt brass fob for the "Imperial Air Convention'; Crowned winged 'C' inscribed "Air Supremacy", "IA" monogram to the centre, ring to the top to suspend from a watch chain or lapel. Very good condition, gilt remains bright.
Height 34mm.

iThe 'Imperial Air Convention' was founded around 1916 by Noel Pemberton Billing, aviator, inventor, publisher and Member of Parliament, he also founded the aircraft firm Supermarine in 1913.The reason why he started the Imperial Air Convention was to enable the nation to force the Government to build sufficient air-craft to regain the supremacy of the air and he passionately believed that the 'Nation that was supreme in the air would in future dictate to the World'.
At a large gathering at the Royal Albert Hall, London in May 1916 the following resolution was adopted:-
"This meeting, convinced that the safety and welfare of the British Empire depend in great measure on supremacy in the air, pledges itself to use every effort to attain and maintain for this country an Imperial Air Service worthy of its Imperial power".

Code: 54348