§ 16. Sir William Davisonasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware of the dissatisfaction which exists in the R.O.C. by reason of the fact that their Corps is not included in Fighter Command, notwithstanding that they are an integral part of the defences of Great Britain and elsewhere; and whether he will reconsider this matter?
§ Captain BalfourNo, Sir. I am not aware of dissatisfaction. The Royal Observer Corps, which consists mainly of part-time members, is a civilian organisation under the operational control of Fighter Command, with which it works in the closest association. There is no evidence that the change which my hon. Friend suggests would enhance the efficiency or usefulness of the Corps. In these circumstances, I do not feel that any useful purpose would be served by militarising this essentially civilian organisation which, I would remind my hon. Friend, has stood the test of time and battle.
§ Sir W. DavisonDoes not my right hon. and gallant Friend agree that without the Royal Observer Corps it would be impossible for Fighter Command to give protection to our large cities and elsewhere? 1525 In those circumstances, does he not think that it would be a graceful action if the Royal Observer Corps were to be made a part of Fighter Command?
§ Captain BalfourWe have to look at whether it would increase the efficiency of Fighter Command organisation if this Corps were militarised. I agree with my hon. Friend that it has done grand work, but this would not increase its efficiency.