§ 21. Flight-Lieut. Grant-Ferrisasked the Secretary of State for Air whether airmen and non-commissioned officer pilots are eligible for the award of the Distinguished Flying Cross?
§ Sir K. WoodNon-commissioned officer pilots and airmen are, under the terms of the Royal Warrant, eligible to be considered for the Distinguished Flying Medal.
§ Flight-Lieut. Grant-FerrisWould it not be an excellent thing if all pilots were eligible for the highest award?
§ Sir K. WoodThere are certain distinctions, and in this matter I am sure my hon. and gallant Friend will appreciate that there is a certain difference in the responsibility.
§ Mr. Garro JonesCan the right hon. Gentleman say what justification he can offer, in the case of a commissioned pilot and a non-commissioned pilot participating in precisely the same enterprise with precisely the same results, for one obtaining the Distinguished Flying Cross and the other obtaining only the Distinguished Flying Medal?
§ Sir K. WoodAs I have said, there is a difference of responsibility. So far as I know, this matter has never been raised, but if the hon. Member likes I will look into it.