§ 1. Mr. Dribergasked the Secretary of State for Air if he is aware that during the month of October, fewer than 20 per cent. of the aircraft passing through the R.A.F. station. Elmas, Sardinia, were R.A.F. aircraft and that R.A.F. aircraft averaged fewer than one a day; and how soon he anticipates that it will be possible to reduce the present strength of some 200 officers and men at this station.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Air (Mr. Geoffrey de Freitas)Over half of the 178 aircraft passing through Elmas in October were R.A.F. aircraft. At the end 1580 of August we reduced the number of men at this unit and I cannot say when we shall be able to make any further reduction.
§ Mr. DribergIn view of the concern felt about the wastage of manpower in the Forces, is my hon. Friend satisfied that this is the most economical possible use of these 200 men's services, and does not the figure he gives confirm my estimate of fewer than one aircraft a day?
§ Mr. de FreitasThe figure in regard to the second part of the supplementary is that there were 178, and 91 of these were R.A.F. On the other point, I am satisfied that the best possible use is being made of these men.
§ 2. Mr. Dribergasked the Secretary of State for Air if he has considered the detailed complaints forwarded to him regarding the inadequate mail services and film and other entertainment provided for airmen stationed at Elmas, Sardinia, C.M.F.; and what action he proposes to take.
§ Mr. de FreitasI have been able to consider most of the points. We have now arranged for two films a week to be sent to Elmas. Other entertainment is difficult to provide as sea transport to Sardinia is poor, but we hope to arrange for parties to travel by air. With the contraction of the Air Force, it became impossible to maintain a regular air mail service to this station and we had to rely on Italian sea transport. This does not appear to have worked too well and I am seeing what can be done to improve the service.
§ Mr. DribergCan my hon. Friend say whether the films will be relatively new?
§ Mr. de FreitasThey are relatively new. Of course, there are not so many new films produced and from time to time first grade films have to be shown again.