HC Deb 22 August 1945 vol 413 cc602-3
32. Mr. Vernon Bartlett

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that airfield construction squadrons are composed mainly of building tradesmen; and whether it is intended to draft such men to the Far East.

Mr. Strachey

Yes, Sir. The Japanese surrender will reduce the number of these men required in the Far East, but it will still be necessary to construct or adapt airfields for the use and support of the occupying forces, and for the development of air communications which are important from a welfare point of view. Other building work will have to be undertaken to provide reasonable living accommodation for the airmen serving in the Far East.

Mr. Bowles

Can the hon. Gentleman say whether there are any airfields apart from the one at Heath Row now under construction for the R.A.F.?

Mr. Strachey

I will inquire into that.

Mr. McGovern

Can the hon. Gentleman state what has been done with a view to releasing all the building trade workers now in the Air Force and not performing building work, in view of the urgency of the housing situation?

Mr. Strachey

If they are not due for release on their age and service group they can only be released under Class B, and there are certain limitations on that method to which the House has agreed.

Mr. McGovern

Is there any special arrangement for the release of building trade workers?

Mr. Strachey

They come under Class B as specialist workers.