26. Captain BALFOURasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air if he can now make a statement regarding the terms and conditions of subsidy to be given to the light aeroplane clubs?
§ Sir P. SASSOONIn broad outline and subject to certain qualifications the new scheme of subsidy for the light aeroplane clubs is as follows. An initial grant of £25 will be made in respect of each club member who qualifies for the issue of a pilot's licence and a grant of £10 for the renewal of a licence. The total annual payments to each club on this scale will be restricted to £1,200, but grants in excess of this sum may be earned at half rates subject to an overall maximum of £1,500. The agreement will be for a period of five years from 1st April last. The detailed terms have been communicated to the General Council of Associated Light Aeroplane Clubs, and a formal agreement is in course of preparation.
§ Lieut.-Commander AGNEWDoes not the right hon. Gentleman consider that the whole of these subsidies should be stopped in the interests of national economy?
§ Sir P. SASSOONI think that they are very valuable.
§ Lord APSLEYDoes this include members of light aeroplane clubs who are in the Air Force Reserve or the Auxiliary Air Force?
§ Sir P. SASSOONIt applies to the 16 light aeroplane clubs that are at present being subsidised.
§ Mr. PERKINSDoes it apply to the National Flying Service?
§ Sir P. SASSOONNo, Sir.