HC Deb 26 July 1939 vol 350 cc1437-8
19. Squadron-Leader Hulbert

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether lapel badges for members of the Auxiliary Air Force are now available and when distribution to units will be completed?

Sir K, Wood

Yes, Sir. Approximately 75 per cent, of the badges are now available for distribution and the remainder should be available by the end of this month.

25. Mr. T. Williams

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he will explain fully the functions and the varying status of the Auxiliary Air Force, the Air Force Reserve, and the Air Cadets; the reason for so many categories, and the cost per unit of each?

Sir K. Wood

The Auxiliary Air Force consists of flying squadrons and balloon barrage squadrons recruited on a Territorial basis, intended to play their part in the air defence of this country as units. The Air Force Reserve, including the Royal Air Force Volunteer Reserve is designed to provide trained individuals to act as reinforcements to the regular air force in time of war. The Air Force Reserve proper comprises mainly personnel with previous service in the regular Air Force, and the Volunteer Reserve is composed mainly of those without such service. Thus each force meets a different requirement in our defence organisation. The Air Defence Cadet Corps is an organisation sponsored and administered by the Air League of the British Empire with a view to stimulating interest in air matters and giving elementary training in aircraft and maintenance to boys who join the Corps. The Corps receives small cash grants and certain assistance in kind from the Air Ministry. I regret that comparative figures of cost are not available.

Mr. Williams

What is the difference in the cost in the buildings and equipment generally of the Auxiliary Air Force and of the Air Force Reserve, and what is their difference of function either in time of peace or of emergency?

Sir K. Wood

I doubt whether those matters are really comparable, as they perform different functions.

Mr. Crossley

Is there any age-limit under which recruits are not taken?

Sir K. Wood

Yes, Sir. I recently issued a statement on that matter which I will send to my hon. Friend.

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