HC Deb 31 October 1945 vol 415 cc428-9
86. Wing-Commander Roland Robinson

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air how many serving officers have made applications for permanent commissions in the R.A.F.; how many of such applications have been accepted; and what terms of employment are offered to those not yet accepted.

Mr. Strachey

I would refer the hon. and gallant Member to my reply of 24th October to the hon. and gallant Member for Macclesfield (Air-Commodore Harvey). Officers who are being considered for permanent commissions have the opportunity of prolonging their service on their exist ing terms of employment or of being considered for extended service under a scheme, particulars of which I am sending to the hon. Member.

Wing-Commander Robinson

Is the Minister aware that many officers and men who otherwise would stay in the Forces are leaving on account of uncertainty about their future employment? Is it not about time that the Air Ministry made up its mind as to the future of the R.A.F., so that the men in it can know what lies before them?

Mr. Strachey

My Department is wellaware of that, but it depends upon the future of the three Services, and that is a question of considerable moment which cannot be settled in a minute.