§ 79. Mr. Palingasked the Secretary of State for Airhow many men made application to join the Royal Air Force during the last 12 months for which figures are available; how many were accepted; and how many rejected on medical grounds?
Captain BalfourDuring the twelve months ended 31st January, 1939, 58,261 application forms for enlistment were completed, 24,326 men were accepted and 11,058 men rejected on medical grounds.
§ Mr. S. RussellWill my hon. and gallant Friend say whether the number of rejections upon medical grounds is on the increase or is decreasing?
Captain BalfourI think the actual number of rejections on medical grounds is somewhat higher, but that is due to the greater number of men enlisting. The percentage of medical rejections has been going down. In 1936 it was 23 per cent., in 1937 21 per cent., and so far this year the average is 19 per cent.
§ Mr. G. GriffithsIs it not a fact that a man has to have the character of an archangel before he can get in there?