§ 58. Mr. Sidney Shephardasked the Secretary of State for Air the present strength of the A.T.C.
§ Mr. ShephardIs the Minister aware of the continued decline in the numbers in this Force? Is it not due to the fact that so few cadets are now able to get into the air crews? Is he satisfied that the number taking proficiency tests has increased, or has it decreased?
§ Mr. de FreitasThere has been a decrease, but latest figures show an increase again. On the point with regard to air crews, the first 100 places for National Service entrants are reserved for ex-A.T.C. cadets. The number of proficient cadets and first class cadets is 15,000, and the number taking their proficiency certificates is about three times what it was last year, and the quality has gone up.
§ Mr. Francis Noel-BakerCan my hon. Friend assure the House that his Department are doing everything they can to provide facilities and equipment for the A.T.C.?
§ Mr. de FreitasYes, Sir.