HC Deb 06 November 1946 vol 428 cc1366-7

The following Question stood upon the Order Paper:

7. Mr. SIDNEY SHEPHARD,—TO ask the Secretary of State for Air how many auxiliary squadrons of the R.A.F. have already been formed.

At the end of Questions—

Mr. de Freitas

With your permission, Mr. Speaker, I will answer Question No. 7. Twenty, Sir. They are the Auxiliary Air Force flying squadrons which existed before the war and earned such distinction in action. Thirteen of these squadrons are day fighter, three are night fighter and four are light bomber. Before the war the squadrons were raised and administered by the County Territorial Army and Air Force Associations; we are grateful to the associations for undertaking these duties again. This weekend the 20 squadron headquarters will begin recruiting from former members of the Air Force. We shall be making an announcement later about other forms of non-regular service for those who are unable to join these squadrons.

Colonel Gomme-Duncan

Can the hon. Gentleman give the location of these squadrons?

Mr. de Freitas

There are three in Scotland, one in Northern Ireland, one in Wales and 15 in England.

Winǵ-Commander Millinǵton

Can the hon. Gentleman say how soon it will be before he will be able to make a statement about the other forms of the non-regular service, as it is some six months ago since we were told that a statement would be made soon?

Mr. de Freitas

It will not be long delayed.