HC Deb 06 November 1945 vol 415 cc1077-8
44. Mr. Garry Allighan

asked the Minister of Labour what percentages of this and next month's intakes are to be allocated to the three Services, respectively.

Mr. Isaacs

The intakes to the three Services for November and December have been apportioned as follows:—

November: Per cent.
Navy 18
Army 49
R.A.F. 33
December:
Navy 21
Army 52
R.A.F. 27

Mr. Allighan

In view of the fact that owing to the disparity between the Services relating to releases, the R.A.F. is not in such an advantageous position as the other two Services, will my right hon. Friend consider increasing the percentage intake of the R.A.F.?

Mr. Isaacs

That is quite another question.

Colonel Ropner

Could the right hon. Gentleman say whether boys who intend to choose the Army as a life profession are likely to be directed into the Navy or the Air Force?

Mr. Isaacs

That is another question and involves a number of other factors, but if the hon. and gallant Member will put a question down, I will have the matter looked at.

Major Wilkes

In view of the serious discontent which exists in the R.A.F., and of the undertaking given by the Under-Secretary for Air, would my right hon. Friend look into this matter and see that a considerable proportion of the new intake is directed into the R.A.F.? Will not the Minister of Labour look into this extremely serious matter of increasing the intake into the R.A.F.?

Mr. Isaacs

I cannot deal with an undertaking given by my colleague on behalf of the R.A.F., but we have to supply the requirements that are submitted to us by the Departments, and whether the Ministry of Labour has any right to say who should go from one Department to another, I do not know.