38. Lieut.-Colonel Sir JOHN HOPEasked the Under-Secretary of State to the Air Ministry whether the headquarters of the South-Eastern Area is the only unit of the Air Force accommodated in No. 4, Thurloe Place; by what number of officers and men the strength of this unit has been reduced since 11th November, 1918; and how much further it is intended to reduce the strength after the signing of Peace?
§ Major-General SEELYWith the exception of two officers and three clerks, the headquarters staff of the South-Eastern Area is the only Royal Air Force unit accommodated at 4, Thurloe Place. On the 11th November, 1918, the total numbers of this staff were sixty-four officers and 195 other ranks; yesterday the figures worn sixty-seven officers, 173 other ranks and fifty-six civil subordinates. The increase shown has been made in consequence of the great increase of work due to rapid demobilisation. Thus, while the reduction of the whole force during the period mentioned is: Officers and cadets, 64 per cent., and other ranks 74 per cent., an increase is necessary in the staff of the areas in order to complete the great volume of work involved in this rapid reduction, and assist in building up the smaller permanent force.