HC Deb 15 May 1918 vol 106 cc361-2
64. Sir H. GREENWOOD

asked the Under-Secretary of State to the Air Ministry how often the medical committee of the Air Force has met; and whether the Director-General of the Naval Medical Service and the Director-General of the Army Medical Service were present at such meetings?

The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE to the AIR MINISTRY (Major Baird)

The Medical Administrative Committee of the Air Force has met on four occasions. The Director-General of the Naval Medical Service was present at three of the meetings. The Director-General of Army Medical Services was present at the first two meetings, and sent representatives to the other meetings.

65. Sir H. GREENWOOD

asked whether the Air Ministry has obtained sanction from the Treasury for the salaries of three members of the Committee, in accordance with the plans laid down?

Major BAIRD

I presume that my hon. Friend is referring to the Medical Administrative Committee, and in that case the answer is in the affirmative.

66. Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

asked the Under-Secretary of State to the Air Ministry whether the medical committee has arranged for the inspection of aerodromes; if so, how many aerodromes have been inspected; whether they themselves have made any such inspections and generally whether, in accordance with the scheme, they have determined the requirements, administrative, professional, and scientific, for the medical service of the Air Force; and whether they are convinced that these requirements are now being properly met?

Major BAIRD

The Medical Administrative Committee has arranged for the inspection of aerodromes. These inspections are being carried out by eleven senior medical officers of the Navy and Army lent to the Royal Air Force. Reports have already been received from them on nearly all aerodromes at which flying takes place. All possible steps are being taken to meet the requirements for the medical service of the Air Force.

Mr. JOYNSON-HICKS

Is the Army Council satisfied with the existing condition of the medical service of the Air Force?

Major BAIRD

Every possible help is being received in this matter, and we are making very great progress.