§ 39. Mr. L'ESTRANGE MALONEasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether Royal Air Force units are ever permitted to take part in flying meetings organised by private aero clubs; and whether the decision as to which clubs should have Royal Air Force assistance allocated to them rests with the Air Ministry or any other body?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for AIR (Mr. Montague)The answer to the first part of the question is in the affirmative, and to the second that the decision rests with the Air Council. The assistance which, with due regard to Service training requirements, can be given by the Royal Air Force to these meetings is very limited and its most appropriate allocation is determined by the Air Council in the light of the recommendations of the Royal Aero Club, who obtain, I understand, the advice of the General Council of Associated Flying Clubs.
§ Mr. MALONEDoes the hon. Member realise that that procedure penalises clubs which are not affiliated to the Royal Aero Club, and, in particular, a very fine club, the Northamptonshire Flying Club?
§ Mr. MONTAGUEThis procedure has so far been the practice, but I am willing to consider any further point that may be involved.