§ 34. Mr. Kirbyasked the Secretary of State for Air what progress has been made in the enrolment in Liverpool of officers and men for service in the Royal Air Force and its auxiliaries; and what progress has been made in the training at Speke airport?
§ Sir K. WoodDuring the six months ended 30th September, 1938, 915 airman recruits from the Liverpool area were sent forward for acceptance for service in the Royal Air Force; the corresponding figure for the six months ended 31st March, 1939, was 1,276. I am unable to give figures relating to officers for the Regular Air Force, as applications are dealt with centrally at the Air Ministry and there is no separate record of those who come from the Liverpool district. The Auxiliary Air Force flying squadron at Speke is up to strength and has a waiting list. I am informed that its training has progressed very satisfactorily. Two of 1385 the three balloon squadrons already have their full establishment of airmen, although one of them was only formed as recently as 1st March last. Recruiting for the third squadron is progressing satisfactorily.