§ 23. Lieutenant-Colonel Liptonasked the Secretary of State for Air how many applications for permanent commissions from ex-officers are now under consideration.
§ Mr. A. HendersonThe number is 616.
§ Lieut.-Colonel LiptonIs my right hon. Friend aware that some of these applicants have had to wait two years or more before a decision was taken on their applications and also that in quite a number of cases the positions offered to these men are altogether inappropriate in the light of their previous flying experience?
§ Mr. HendersonAs regards the length of time that these applications are kept waiting my information is that, on an average, it is up to three months. If the hon. and gallant Member knows of a case where an applicant has had to wait two years I should like very much to have information about it.