§ 36. Mr. SANDYSasked the Secretary of State for Air how many men, in the various categories of personnel, have joined the Royal Air Force since the recent decision to expand that service; and how these figures compare with requirements?
§ The UNDER-SECRETARY of STATE for AIR (Sir Philip Sassoon)Between the 22nd May (the date on which the decision of His Majesty's Government regarding the expansion of the Royal Air Force was announced) and the 6th July, the numbers finally accepted are as follow:
The initial response has been satisfactory, but it is too early for any useful comparison to be made between the numbers actually accepted and the total requirements. My hon. Friend will appreciate that what is required is a steady and continuous intake corresponding with the execution of the programme of expansion.
Officer and airman pilots 95 Airmen for training in fitter and rigger duties 646 Airmen for training as armourers, photographers and wireless operators 201 Other airmen 731