HC Deb 06 June 1945 vol 411 cc867-8
27. Major Peto

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he will set out in detail the principles which are to be applied in drafting R.A.F. personnel for service in the Far East so far as the various demobilisation priority groups are concerned.

Mr. H. Macmillan

Men in early age and service groups for Class "A" release are not normally posted overseas except to Western Europe. For purposes of assessing priority of release there is no distinction between service at home and overseas; nor will a man be required to complete his overseas tour when his turn for release arrives.

Mr. McKinlay

Is it a fact that men in the 25 group have already been informed by commanding officers in France that they are liable to be drafted to the Far East?

Mr. Macmillan

I think this question was raised before, and any such order, if given, has been cancelled.

Mr. McKinlay

Is the Minister aware that I have a reply from his predecessor which indicates that the people on the spot determine these things and that men of the 25 group have been notified that they are liable to be so drafted?

Mr. Macmillan

That was an order of the 2nd Tactical Air Force in France which has been cancelled.