§ 35. Wing-Commander Roland Robinsonasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that many officers and other ranks in the R.A.F. are now forced to seek civilian employment with no recommendations other than their rank and decorations and a final testimonial from their last commanding officer who may only have known the person concerned for a short time; and whether he will assist officers and other ranks on release by giving them a certified true copy of their assessments throughout their service lives as a testimonial.
§ Mr. StracheyWe are going to issue instructions authorising senior officers to supply written statements to officers, both R.A.F. and W.A.A.F. who have served under their command at any period and about whom they have adequate knowledge. Such statements should describe the character and special aptitudes of the officer.
Airmen and airwomen leaving the Service on release are given a service and release book and a statement of service which provide similar information. The attention of commanding officers is being specially drawn to the necessity for completing these forms in such a way as to provide the maximum assistance to airmen and airwomen in their future careers. In addition, the commanding officer will be authorised to make a special statement about an airman or airwoman who is applying for a professional post.