§ 71. Sir J. Mellorasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air how many airmen remain in Iceland and for what purpose; and what transport is available for mails, leave, and those due for release.
§ Mr. StracheyThe great majority of the Royal Air Force who are still in Iceland are doing signals work. It would not be in accordance with the present policy to give the numbers of our forces in particular places overseas. We have already made big reductions in Iceland—in fact one difficulty is that there are no longer enough men to justify regular troopship sailings for Iceland. Meanwhile, we are 1328 providing aircraft to make a weekly journey for mails and men who are due for release.
§ Sir J. MellorAs there are only now about four hours of daylight, will the Under-Secretary of State do his utmost to improve the amenities for these men?
§ Mr. StracheyYes, Sir, but what they mostly require, I think, is to come home, and that, for most of them, will soon happen.