HC Deb 03 May 1939 vol 346 cc1852-3
22. Mr. W. Joseph Stewart

asked the Secretary of State for Air the number of persons that have enlisted in the Royal Air Force in Durham and Northumberland during the years 1937, 1938, and 1939, respectively?

Sir K. Wood

The following are the figures:

1937 … 697
1938 … 1,560
1939 (to 21st April) … 707

Mr. Stewart

Is the right hon. Gentleman satisfied with the rate of recruitment in these areas; and do the figures not suggest that the voluntary system is working very satisfactorily?

Sir K. Wood

I must commend what this part of the country has done in relation to the Air Force, and hope that it will continue its efforts.

24. Mr. R. J. Taylor

asked the Secretary of State for Air the number of young men between the ages of 20 and 21 years who have joined the Royal Air Force during the past 12 months from the respective mining districts of the British coalfields?

Sir K. Wood

Separate records of recruiting in mining districts are not maintained by my Department, and I regret that I am unable, therefore, to furnish the figures required by the hon. Member.