HC Deb 07 July 1938 vol 338 cc589-90
82. Mr. Hulbert

asked the Secretary of State for Air how many hon. Members and how many Peers hold commissions in the Royal Air Force Reserve and Auxiliary Air Force?

The Secretary of State for Air (Sir Kingsley Wood)

Eight Members of the House of Lords hold commissions, including honorary commissions, in the Auxiliary Air Force. Seven hon. Members of this House hold commissions, including honorary commissions, in the Auxiliary Air Force, one in the Reserve of Air Force Officers and one in the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve. In addition one hon. Member holds a commission in the Auxiliary Air Force Reserve of Officers.

Mr. Mander

Are there any other ranks in the House?

Viscountess Astor

Why do not you join up?

Mr. Davidson

Would it be in order for hon. Members on this side of the House to ask for the influence of the Noble Lady to join the Cabinet as others have done?

93. Mr. Hulbert

asked the First Lord of the Admiralty how many hon. Members and how many Peers hold commissions in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve and the Royal Naval Reserve?

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty (Mr. Shakespeare)

Five Peers hold commissions in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve, three being on the Active List, and two on the Retired List. There are no members of this House who hold commissions in the Royal Naval Volunteer Reserve and no members of either House are members of the Royal Naval Reserve.

Mr. Mander

Is there any women's section of the Naval forces which the Noble Lady opposite might suitably join?

Viscountess Astor

Would it not be right that the Noble Lady should join if she were anxious for the Government to go to war?