§ The number of new squadrons to be formed for home defence this year is eight. By March, 1925, we shall thus have 18 towards the 52 outlined within the next five years or thereabouts. The first interim Geddes Report on National Expenditure presented, at the beginning of 1922 laid down the Cabinet view at that time, that "no great war need be anticipated for at least 10 years." It further recommended that the Air Force Estimates be reduced from £15,500,000 to £10,000,000. We have departed from that recommendation. The Labour party assumed office almost immediately following the adoption by this House of an enlargement scheme and decided not to interfere with that scheme. The will of the House I take to be still in favour of that scheme, but our condition is that if any international move for common reduction comes along, we shall be free to accept it and in that case if circumstances warrant a deviation we shall hold ourselves free to bring such 2183 circumstances before this House and act accordingly. I feel sure the House will see the reasonableness of that view. The problem of forming these new squadrons is a formidable one. The late Government decided that they should be organised partly on a Territorial or Reserve basis. This means legislation and the Auxiliary Air Force and Air Force Reserve Bill will, therefore, shortly be introduced. I do not mean to deal with that Measure here, but I may say that out of the 34 squadrons still to be formed, 13 will be on this new basis. A great deal of civilian labour for repairs to aircraft and engines will be required and new ground personnel will create further employment.
§ In the process of forming these new squadrons the initial training of pilots will proceed on the spot. By such measures we hope the increase will be effected without a large addition to the existing service training establishments and stores depots. We have four flying training schools and it may be necessary to form another, but we hope not. Such overhead charges will therefore get cheaper as the enlargement proceeds. Negotiations for the purchase of six new aerodromes are also proceeding. Approximately 23 new stations with the requisite sheds, workshops, and barrack accommodation will ultimately be required. Difficulties surrounding the acquisition of sites have also to be overcome. Some of the sites disposed of after the War may be to re-purchase. Local interests may occasionally be against us. We hope to be met in such cases in a right spirit by the people concerned. A joint Air Ministry and War Office Committee has been appointed to inquire into the organisation of the higher commands, communications and questions of ground troops and general co-operation.