§ 8. Mr. Bellengerasked the Secretary of State for Air what is the system by which deductions from an airman's pay to the R.A.F. Benevolent Fund are made; and whether such contributions are recognised to be of a voluntary nature.
§ Captain BalfourAn airman who wishes to contribute to the R.A.F. Benevolent Fund may authorise the deduction from his pay of a subscription at the rate of half a day's substantive pay per annum. It is well understood by all concerned that this is a purely voluntary arrangement.
§ Mr. BellengerDoes my right hon. and gallant Friend realise the pressure that can be brought to bear by commanding officers who desire to see their units subscribe well to the Benevolent Fund, by making this something more than a voluntary contri- 214 bution? Will he do everything he can to discourage such action on the part of commanding officers?
§ Captain BalfourNo suggestion has reached the Air Ministry that pressure is brought upon men by their commanding officers. If the hon. Gentleman has any information to that effect I shall be very glad to receive it.