HC Deb 30 June 1948 vol 452 cc2192-4
22. Sir P. Hannon

asked the Secretary of State for Air what special arrangements have been approved for the encouragement of recruitment to the Air Training Corps; what is the present strength of the A.T.C. organisation; what financial provision is being made to provide officers uniforms and essential equipment for A.T.C. units; and if financial support will be given to the provision of suitable headquarters where necessary.

The Under-Secretary of State for Air (Mr. Geoffrey de Freitas)

A number of special measures have been introduced to encourage boys to join the A.T.C. and I will, with the hon. Member's permission, circulate details in the OFFICIAL. REPORT. The results of these measures are now being seen; the strength of the Corps, which is now 49,600, and its efficiency have both risen appreciably since the autumn of last year.

Sir P. Hannon

While thanking the hon. Gentleman for his reply, may I ask whether it means that some concessions will be made to officers in respect of uniforms, essential equipment and the provision of headquarters, and that the general encouragement of the work of the A.T.C. will be on better lines than those at present pursued by the Government?

Mr. de Freitas

Both those points are covered in the statement, and I am sure the hon. Gentleman will find it encouraging.

Following is the statement:

Apart from providing training which will be valuable to a cadet in civil life, the A.T.C. offers many opportunities for interesting service while a cadet is a member of the Corps, and many advantages when he joins the R.A.F., either for National Service or Regular Service. There are opportunities for visits to R.A.F. stations and flights in R.A.F. aircraft, including long-distance flights to stations overseas. Glider instruction is given at more than 50 schools. Cadets can take certain courses at local technical schools at public expense. Several flying scholarships have been endowed by civil flying clubs, business firms and private individuals—whose generosity is much appreciated—and a number of A.T.C. cadets have thus been trained to fly up to the "A" licence standard.

The R.A.F. offers special advantages to A.T.C. cadets. Proficient cadets are guaranteed entry into the R.A.F.; the period of recruit training is reduced; and they have certain privileges in choosing the trade in which they wish to serve. Proficient cadets whose general education has reached School Certificate standard and who wish to apply for permanent commissions are excused the open competitive examination for Cranwell. The formation of the Combined Cadet Force in schools and the reduction of the age of entry into the A.T.C. from 15 to 14 are other measures which will, it is hoped, increase the number in the Corps.

The principal items of officers' uniforms are issued without charge from service stocks; an allowance of £7 10s. is also paid to newly commissioned officers. A wide range of equipment is supplied to units free of charge and the cost of accommodation needed by A.T.C. headquarters is met from public funds.