§ 35. Mr. G. GRIFFITHSasked the Secretary of State for Air the number of applicants for enlistment into all ranks of the Royal Air Force since the 22nd May, and the number accepted?
§ The SECRETARY of STATE for AIR (Sir Philip Cunliffe-Lister)Between 22nd May and 15th June, 1935, some 60,000 inquiries have been received, which have resulted in upwards of 13,800 definite applications. Scrutiny of particulars to date indicates that some 6,200 of the applicants are prima facie suitable, and their interviewing, trade testing and medical examination are now proceeding. Up to 15th June, some 700 have been finally accepted. I think the House may like to know that, despite 18 these very large numbers, it has normally been found possible to furnish inquirers with the necessary forms to complete their applications within 24 hours of receipt of their inquiries. I may add that, in order to assist recruiting progress, fully equipped offices have to-day been opened at Liverpool, Glasgow and Birmingham, and that further offices are to be opened at an early date in a number of other centres.