20. Mr. David Adamsasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware of the great scarcity of B Licence pilots requisite to carry out contracts for Army co-operation flying; and whether he pro poses to make such arrangements as will enable the large numbers of experienced A Licence pilots to undertake this work?
Captain BalfourI am aware: that there is, at the present time, a considerable de- 1117 mand for B Licence pilots, but up to the present no operating company fulfilling an Army co-operation flying contract has complained that it has been unable to obtain qualified pilots for this work. The amount of Army co-operation flying required may increase, and if it is apparent that this will be handicapped by shortage of B Licence pilots my right hon. Friend is prepared to consult with the organisations representing commercial pilots on a possible temporary amendment of the Regulations so as to enable suitable holders of Class A Licences to undertake this work.