HC Deb 07 December 1938 vol 342 cc1152-4
20. Wing-Commander James

asked the Secretary of State for Air the number of pupils, male and female, that have completed instruction, and are now under instruction, for the Civil Air Guard; what proportion are expected to be employed by the Air Ministry in the case of war; the cost incurred to date; and the estimated future cost of this class of flying instruction?

The Under-Secretary of State for Air (Captain Harold Balfour)

The number of "A" licence holders in the Civil Air Guard is approximately 1,000, of which some 80 are women. This total includes those who have qualified under Civil Air Guard instruction and those who held an "A" licence previous to enrolment. My right hon. Friend is now considering, in consultation with the Civil Air Guard Commissioners, the various directions in which members can serve the Air Ministry in time of war. The cost incurred for the first two months is approximately £25,000 but, in view of the comparatively short experience of the scheme, and variable factors such as weather conditions, I am reluctant to give a forecast of probable future cost.

23. Mr. Charles Brown

asked the Secretary of State for Air how many applications have been received from the London area for membership of the Civil Air Guard; how many of such applicants have already commenced flying training; and whether the Brooklands Flying Club and the Heston Airport flying school have yet begun to co-operate in the scheme?

Captain Balfour

The number of applications received from the London area is 5,605, and of this number about half may be expected to qualify for enrolment. The number undergoing flying training at the beginning of November was 551, at seven clubs; the Brooklands Flying Club has found itself unable to participate in the Civil Air Guard scheme; the Airwork Flying Club at Heston Airport was authorised to begin Civil Air Guard training as from 1st November.

Mr. Brown

How long does the Under-Secretary think it will be before the Government can effectively utilise the voluntary services at their disposal?

Captain Balfour

As I have said, my right hon. Friend is considering how best the voluntary services of these members can be used for the Air Ministry.

24. Mr. Roland Robinson

asked the Secretary of State for Air what progress has been made in the negotiations between the General Council of the Associated Light Aeroplane Clubs and the Aviation Insurance Underwriters with regard to the insurance rates for the Civil Air Guard scheme?

Captain Balfour

The question of rates of insurance of aircraft of the Civil Air Guard is not one for the Air Ministry, but is primarily the responsibility of the clubs and the members of the Civil Air Guard. I understand, however, that negotiations with regard to insurance rates for aircraft are proceeding between the General Council of Associated Light Aeroplane Clubs and the Aviation Insurance Underwriters, and these will, I hope, be brought to a conclusion satisfactory to both parties.

Mr. Robinson

Can my hon. and gallant Friend say whether the lack of reasonable insurance facilities is holding up the development of the Civil Air Guard scheme?

Captain Balfour

Undoubtedly the task of the clubs will be facilitated when the questions which are now under discussion in regard r to insurance rates for this new scheme are settled.

Mr. Robinson

Will my hon. and gallant Friend bring pressure to bear on those concerned?

Captain Balfour

It is riot primarily the responsibility of the Air Ministry, but my right hon. Friend will, I know, use his best offices in any way to facilitate a successful conclusion of this question.