HC Deb 03 July 1941 vol 372 cc1498-9
68. Major Milner

asked the Secretary of State for Air why, seeing that large silhouette recognition charts have been issued to the Army, they have not been issued to the Royal Air Force; and may they be so issued forthwith?

Captain Balfour

An ample supply of silhouettes and other equipment for recognition training has long been available for the R.A.F. The large silhouette recognition chart to which the hon. and gallant Member refers is intended primarily for personnel engaged in ground defence duties. Supplies additional to those for Army purposes are on order and will be issued to units as soon as possible.

Major Milner

Why should the Army have preference in this matter; and is my hon. and gallant Friend aware that there is great dissatisfaction in the Royal Air Force in regard to it?

Captain Balfour

No. Sir. I am not aware of any great dissatisfaction.

Major Milner

How is it that the Royal Air Force, who had this matter brought to their attention many months ago—I called their attention to it—are still waiting while the Army is fully supplied?

Captain Balfour

The law of supply and demand is such that we can issue only the charts which are received, and the Army have responsibility for the defence of aerodromes.

Mr. Granville

Can the hon. and gallant gentleman say whether these charts are kept up to date, because some refer to machines of the last war?

Captain Balfour

These charts are kept up to date. All new aircraft has been identified and includes new German types.