§ 19. Mr. J. Patonasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air if he is aware of the anxiety among personnel in the R.A.F. groups whose release is to be held back in case their chances of being accepted for post-service training, through such schemes as those for teachers, will be prejudiced by the delay; and whether he will ensure that these men have equal opportunity to avail themselves of the facilities of the various schemes and an equal chance of acceptance for posts; and if he will employ the usual service means to make this clear.
§ Mr. StracheyI can quite understand that there is natural anxiety on this score. But we are assured by the authorities responsible for post-service training that the various resettlement schemes will be fully available to those in the later release groups. We are taking every opportunity to make this clear in the Service.
§ Mr. PatonMay I assume from that answer that men who are accepted for teaching training before they reach the age of 35—the age limit—will be eligible for retraining although they have passed the 35th year before their release?
§ Mr. StracheyI think I should have to have notice of that Question to give an adequate reply but, as I understand it, that would be the case.
Mrs. ManningIs it not a fact that those men are not even being selected while they are still in the Service; and could not the hon. Gentleman send Selection Boards out to the various theatres?
§ Mr. StracheyWe do not manage the post-service training; that is the responsibility of the Ministry of Labour and other Departments. However, I will certainly take up the suggestion made by the hon. Member.