HC Deb 22 December 1937 vol 330 cc1961-3
44. Mr. Mathers

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air how many persons now attached to the Royal Air Force stations at Turnhouse and Donibristle, respectively, will have their services terminated as the result of the changes in disposition which are to take place; and what arrangements will be made to provide suitable alternative employment?

Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead

The numbers as at present anticipated will be 35 at Turnhouse and 11 at Donibristle. As regards the second part of the question, the normal procedure is for industrial employés to be obtained locally through the Employment Exchanges, and the names of those concerned will be reported to the exchanges with a view to their absorption in other employment.

Mr. Mathers

Is it not clear from the hon. and gallant Gentleman's reply that this indicates that there is a serious lessening of the value of the Air Force at these two stations, and may I ask whether this is a purely Air Force move or whether the matter may be further considered by the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence?

Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead

There is undoubtedly a lessening of the Air Force strength at these places. With regard to the wider issue affecting the Minister for the Co-ordination of Defence, perhaps the hon. Member will put that question to him.

55. Mr. Mathers

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air to what parts of the country the Royal Air Force units now stationed at Turnhouse and Donibristle will be removed; how many officers and men will go from each station; and whether special monetary consideration will be given to those who have to leave their homes?

Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead

Nos. 22 and 42 Squadrons will move from Donibristle to Thorney Island and No. 83 Squadron from Turnhouse to Scampton. Twenty-two officers and 224 airmen will go from Donibristle and 15 officers and 146 airmen from Turnhouse. Provision is made for payment of removal expenses to qualified officers and all airmen on the married establishment and for rent compensation in certain cases and no special monetary consideration in connection with these moves is contemplated.

Mr. Mathers

Can the Minister say how many officers and men will replace those who move?

Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead

Perhaps the hon. Member will put that question down.

Mr. Mathers

Does the Minister realise that by these answers he is adding to the perturbation that is felt in the area, and that many people are apprehensive about the way in which the Air Force is making its dispositions in that area?

Lieut.-Colonel Muirhead

I can appreciate that the residents in that neigbour-hood are sorry that part of the Air Force is leaving. I am sure that they will recognise the tribute which the hon. Member pays to the popularity of the Air Force in those parts.

Mr. Mathers

Does not the Minister realise that it is much more serious than that?