HC Deb 01 December 1937 vol 329 cc2062-3
55. Mr. Mander

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware of the disadvantages which persons resident in the West Midlands who are training, or desire to train, in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve are under at the present time; that the aerodrome at Castle Bromwich is the only one available, that no machines other than those for training can be used, and that those in other parts of the country are able to pass through the course much more rapidly and obtain commissions, and whether he will consider the advisability of making arrangements for the use of another aerodrome, such as Wolverhampton, for this purpose?

Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead

The Air Ministry are aware of the need for the provision of adequate facilities for the training of Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve pilots in the West Midlands district, and hope to conclude satisfactory arrangements in the near future for the use of the new Birmingham Municipal Aerodrome for this purpose.

Mr. Mander

Is it not a fact that that aerodrome will not be ready for a year or more, and that there are a number of persons in Wolverhampton and the West Midlands who are willing to join this Reserve now, and are only prevented by the absence of facilities?

Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead

We are well aware of the desire to get facilities as soon as possible, but these are the arrangements we are now making with the Birmingham Municipal Aerodrome.

Mr. Mander

But is it not the case that the Birmingham Municipal Aerodrome will not be ready for a long time? Will the hon. Gentleman say how soon it will be ready?

Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead

Perhaps the hon. Member will put the question down.