HC Deb 04 October 1944 vol 403 cc909-10
16. Colonel Greenwell

asked the Secretary of State for Air if the Government's proposals for demobilisation will permit of officers who are serving on permanent regular commissions in the R.A.F. re- signing their commissions at the appropriate time should they so desire and being demobilised in accordance with the scheme; and what will, similarly, be the position of other ranks on long service attestations.

Sir A. Sinclair

The Government scheme of release or transfer from the Forces does not apply to officers holding permanent commissions or to airmen of the regular Air Force whose periods of engagement have not expired.

Colonel Greenwell

Can the Minister say what will be the position with regard to the resignations of officers in future? Does he appreciate that there will undoubtedly be officers who, not seeing much prospect for themselves in the Service, would probably like to take jobs in civil life?

Sir A. Sinclair

The position will be exactly the same as it is at present. Applications to resign commissions will be considered on their merits.

Mr. Stephen

Does that mean that the right hon. Gentleman's policy is to put officers in a privileged position with regard to getting out of the Air Force, as compared with other ranks?

Sir A. Sinclair

Most decidedly not.