§ 11. Wing-Commander Hulbertasked the Secretary of State for Air what arrangement has recently been entered into for closer co-operation between the Air Training Corps and the Boy Scouts' Association?
§ The Joint Under-Secretary of State for Air (Captain Harold Balfour)Air Scout troops may now be attached to units of of the A.T.C. for instruction in air subjects by A.T.C. instructors and qualified cadets and they may be allowed the use of A.T.C. accommodation and equipment for this purpose free of charge.
§ 12. Wing-Commander Hulbertasked the Secretary of State for Air the latest figures of the strength of the Air Training Corps?
§ Captain BalfourThe cadet strength of the Air Training Corps on 30th April, 1943, was approximately 182,500 enrolled in some 1,700 units.
§ 17. Mr. Treeasked the Secretary of State for Air whether swimming is included in the training of cadets of the Air Training Corps?
§ Captain BalfourIt would be impracticable in present circumstances to include swimming in the A.T.C. syllabus for all cadets. Cadets are, however, encouraged to take all opportunities to learn to swim whilst under training and marks are given for this subject in the proficiency examinations.
§ 18. Mr. Treeasked the Secretary of State for Air how many university air squadrons there are in the Air Training Corps; and whether he is satisfied that they are fulfilling their purpose?
§ Captain BalfourThere are at present 23 university air squadrons in the Air Training Corps, four of which will be discontinued at the end of the current term, following on a recent decision affecting the call-up of men of the 1925 age class. The answer to the second part of the Question is "Yes."
§ Mr. SimmondsDo all these university air squadrons give actual flying training now?
§ Captain BalfourNo, Sir. The purpose of university air squadrons is not to give flying training, although while undergoing a course with the squadrons the cadets get a certain amount of air experience.