HC Deb 27 July 1922 vol 157 cc666-7
18. Viscount CURZON

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he can give any details as to the new Air Force Reserve; whether it is intended to provide out of this Reserve for the requirements of the Navy; whether any of the pilots provided under this scheme would be able to fly on and off an aircraft carrier or off a flying platform; if not, how long would be required to train them and how many carriers would be required for the purpose; whether observers are included; how long would be required, to train them for their duties; and whether it is considered that the annual training provided for under the scheme is sufficient to train pilots and observers to carry out their duties in the squadrons of the Royal Air Force attached to the Royal Navy?

Captain GUEST

I am glad of this opportunity of correcting a misapprehension which has arisen. The statements which have appeared in the Press recently to the effect that a new Air Force Reserve was being created are not quite accurate. The position is that officers who were granted short service commissions in 1919 for a period of three years' service on the active list, followed by a period in the Reserve, will commence to pass into the Reserve this year. The first officers will be transferred in September. The Reserve is intended to provide for the requirements of the Air Force at a time of national emergency, including the duties of the Air Force in connection with the Royal Navy. A number of the pilots who are at present serving on short service commissions, and who will in due course pass into the Reserve, are fully trained and experienced in naval work. The Reserve also includes observers. It is considered that the annual training provided for under the scheme will be sufficient to keep pilots and observers in training to carry out any Air Force duties which they may be called upon to perform, including duties in the squadrons of the Royal Air Force attached to the Royal Navy.

Viscount CURZON

What is the proposed period of training, and what will the training be for the officers employed on these duties?

Captain GUEST

I take it that a study of the Regulations governing the training would supply the information.

Viscount CURZON

Can the right hon. Gentleman correct me if I suggest that it is 12 months?

Mr. ROSE

Will the right hon. Gentleman see that any information which he does not like to give across the Floor of the House of Commons shall be sent to Shoe Lane, to the "Daily Express"?

Captain GUEST

I cannot carry in my mind the figures which the hon. Gentleman desires, but it is a reasonable course.