§ 23. Mr. Perkinsasked the Secretary of State for Air whether it is the intention of the Government to establish a central Government-assisted school for advanced training for pilots, as suggested by the Maybury Committee?
Captain BalfourThe recommendation to which my hon. Friend refers has to be considered in conjunction with another recommendation of the Maybury Committee that pilots engaged in public air transport should be subject to special tests of skill. A committee, which includes representatives of operating companies and pilots' organisations, is at present discussing what qualifications should be proposed over and above those required at present. As soon as conclusions have been reached, it will be possible to determine the nature and extent of any assistance which may be required. I would, however, inform my hon. Friend that there is already in existence a school run by British Airways, Limited, to which my Department has the right to send pilots for training, subject to appropriate financial arrangements.