§ 83. Major Wise"asked the Under secretary of State for Air if consideration will be given to the award of the Defence or other medal to the officers of the A.T.C. for their services during the war period.
§ Mr. StracheyThis subject has been very carefully considered for officers of the three cadet corps. I am afraid that they are not eligible for the war service medals because they were not called up for full time service.
§ 84. Major Wiseasked the Under secretary of State for Air if he will now make a comprehensive statement as to the future policy in connection with the A.T.C.
§ Mr. StracheyOur policy for the A.T.C. was stated by my Noble Friend in another place on 14th November. The Air Training Corps is to continue as a volunteer cadet organisation under the control, and with the financial support, of the Air Ministry. The Corps will be the main source from which recruits will be drawn by the Air Forces, to which it will be related in size.
§ 85. Major Wiseasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air if arrangements will be made for A.T.C. personnel to be issued for winter wear with greatcoats and boots which may now become surplus to R.A.F. requirements.
§ Mr. StracheyWe already issue a limited number of greatcoats and boots for cadets who are on gliding exercises. With the other Departments concerned, we are looking into the possibility of making a wider issue.