§ 61 Mr. Everardasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether steps have yet been taken to commence the formation of an air cadet corps; and how this corps will be organised locally?
§ Earl WintertonAs recently reported in the Press, a scheme for the formation of an air defence cadet corps has been approved. The organisation and administration of the corps will be in the hands of the Air League of the British Empire, but the Air Ministry is in full sympathy with the project and has undertaken to give the corps all practicable assistance. The aim of the organisers is, I am informed, to establish units of the corps in all larger towns and to provide instruction in the elements of aircraft maintenance and also in air-raid precaution duties.
§ Mr. EverardIs it the intention of the Air Ministry to put this in hand at the earliest possible moment?
§ Earl WintertonYes, the matter is being put into operation.
§ Mr. Noel-BakerIs there any precedent for allowing the formation of such a corps by a private propaganda organisation?
§ Earl WintertonThere are many examples that could be given, but I do not admit that it is a private propaganda organisation. The Cadet Corps for the Army is an organisation of patriotic citizens.
§ Mr. GallacherWould the Minister encourage the Communist party organising the Young Communists League?