§ 21. Lieut.-Colonel GAULTasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air the 1095 number of pilots trained by the flying clubs during 1931; the total amount paid by the Government to these clubs during the period in question; and what percentage this amount is to the total cost of training the pilots concerned?
§ Sir P. SASSOONAs my hon. and gallant Friend is no doubt aware, the grants to subsidised light aeroplane clubs are paid not only in respect of pilots' licences initially issued but also in respect of licences which are renewed. Excluding National Flying Services, the number of qualified pilots who were members of these clubs on 31st December last was 1,034, of whom 284 qualified for new licences during the calendar year 1931. The total amount of the grants paid during this period was approximately £9,430. Under the present scheme the Government grants are understood to represent about 12 per cent. of the cost to the clubs of training the pilots.
§ Lieut.-Colonel GAULTIn view of the fact that the sum paid out to the light aeroplane clubs is much less than the amount allocated for this purpose, is my right hon. Friend prepared to reconsider the whole basis of the grant with a view to lightening the burdens which clubs and flying personnel are called upon to bear in the matter of training expenses?
§ Sir P. SASSOONAs my hon. and gallant Friend knows, the whole matter is to come up for review before 31st July, and meanwhile I would rather not say anything about it.