§ 25. Mr. T. WILLIAMSasked the Secretary of State for Air what financial or other assistance is afforded by his Department to private flying clubs where new pilots are being trained; and what inducements are held out to young pilots when they receive a certificate of proficiency?
§ Sir S. HOAREAgreements for a term of two years have been made with six light aeroplane clubs, whose constitution has been approved by the Air Ministry, providing for the grant to each of a sum not exceeding £2,000 for the purchase of initial equipment, a grant not exceeding £1,000 for each year of the agreement towards maintenance of the equipment, and a replacement grant, if required, during the first year of half the cost of replacement within a maximum of £1,000. As regards the second part of 2063 the question, a grant of £10, of which half may be given to the club member, is made to the club for each member who, having been trained on club aircraft, obtains a pilot's certificate.
§ Mr. WILLIAMSIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that prospective pilots have to pay high charges for the tuition they receive, and could he not do something to provide opportunities for those who are less capable of paying for tuition?
§ Sir S. HOAREI do not think there is any general dissatisfaction with the conditions, which are in the nature of an experiment. I will watch the point raised by the hon. Member.
§ Captain WEDGWOOD BENNCould the right hon. Gentleman say how many of these pilots have certificates?
§ Sir S. HOAREI could not say without notice.