§ 47. Sir W. Wakefieldasked the Prime Minister whether he is aware that many R.A.F. pilots were kept on flying instructors' duties in spite of personal preferences for operational duties; and whether he will consider the award of a distinctive medal to qualified flying instructors who completed an appropriate period of flying hours on instructional duties between 3rd September, 1939, and the end of the Japanese war.
§ The Prime MinisterIn order to staff the basic training organisation of the Royal Air Force, it was necessary to direct some selected pupils on the completion of their own basic training to flying instructor employment, but arrangements were made for all eligible pilots so employed to pass in their turn to operations on completion of their instructional tour. Eight campaign Stars and a defence medal have now been instituted for service in the war and I do not think it would be wise to recommend the institution of further awards of a general character to satisfy claims of this kind in relation to specific types of service. The sterling work performed by flying instructors, often under conditions of great strain, is fully recognised and appropriate awards have been made in individual cases.
§ Sir W. WakefieldWhile thanking the right hon. Gentleman for his reply, may I ask if he is aware that there is very strong feeling among the people concerned that there should be some sort of distinctive medal for the work they did, and the conditions under which they gave service?
§ The Prime MinisterI know that there is a lot of feeling in many quarters. But there are many borderline cases, and if one began to institute medals and stars for all, we should overcrowd the firmament.
§ Sir Ronald RossWas it not as dangerous to go up with some pupils as to fly over Berlin?
§ The Prime MinisterI think so.