§ 19. Mr. Parkerasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that many men joined the Royal Air Force under the impression that they would receive the full pay with all necessaries found; that much discontent has been caused by the large number of compulsory weekly deductions made in a number of units and amounting, in one case, to as much as 5s. 9d., out of an armourer's 12s. weekly pay; and whether he will make arrangements for all necessities to be provided free by the service?
§ Sir K. WoodAll clothing and necessaries are supplied free to men joining the Royal Air Force. To meet the cost of necessary replacements and repair of clothing and necessaries and also of laundry and other miscellaneous items of this kind each airman receives a quarterly cash allowance. Payment for these items is made by way of weekly deductions. I am unable to trace that deductions have been made to the extent indicated by the hon. Member. In a typical case over a period of just over 10 weeks these deductions amounted to 1s. 7d. a week from a gross pay entitlement of 14s.; but if the hon. Member will give me particulars of any cases, I shall be glad to have them looked into.
§ Mr. ParkerIs the right hon. Gentleman aware that in this particular case 1s. 6d. was deducted towards the cost of purchasing football equipment, and that there were deductions for soap and for polish for buttons?
§ Sir K. WoodPerhaps the hon. Gentleman will let me have those facts, and I will look into them.
Captain CazaletWill my right hon. Friend consider giving instructions to recruiting officers to explain to recruits that for a certain number of weeks when they first join there will be deductions, so as to obviate misunderstandings?
§ Sir K. WoodIt should also be explained to them that they receive quarterly cash allowances.