§ 61. Mr. EVERARDasked the First Lord of the Admiralty whether pilots and observers of the Fleet Air Arm on retirement are given annual courses in flying; and whether they are placed on the general reserve of the Royal Navy or on special flying reserve?
The FIRST LORD of the ADMIRALTY (Sir Bolton Eyres Monsell)Naval pilots, on retirement from the Royal Navy, are allowed, if of suitable age, to transfer to the Royal Air Force Reserve. These are given annual flying practice, and will be earmarked for service with the Fleet Air Arm in time of war. As regards Naval observers, it would not be possible to provide these officers, after retirement, with such periodical practice as would be of any real value.
§ Mr. EVERARDIf it is necessary for all officers of the Royal Air Force to undergo an annual training, is it not also necessary for officers of the Fleet Air Arm?
Sir B. EYRES MONSELLI have told my hon. Friend that retired pilots do receive training. With regard to retired observers it would be almost impossible to keep them efficient especially in Wireless Telegraphy without almost daily training.