§ 1. Sir Wavell Wakefieldasked the Secretary of State for Air why no mention has been made of the Air Training Corps in the recruiting drive appeal for the R.A.F.; and why has previous policy in this respect been reversed.
§ The Secretary of State for Air (Mr. Arthur Henderson)The primary aim of the present recruiting drive is to obtain volunteers for the Regular and Reserve Forces, but in speeches in support of the campaign both I and my hon. Friend the Under-Secretary of State have made special reference to the Air Training Corps, to which I attach the greatest importance.
§ Sir W. WakefieldIs the Minister aware that in appeals on the occasion of previous recruiting drives the Air Training Corps was linked with the Royal Air Force? Why has not that been done in this case? Is not the best way to get recruits for the Royal Air Force to bring the advantages of the Royal Air Force before the Air Training Corps?
§ Mr. HendersonThe position in regard to the Air Training Corps is reasonably satisfactory. Out of an overall ceiling of 75,000 we have at present a total strength of over 50,000.
§ Mr. Sidney ShephardIs it not a fact that the strength of the Air Training Corps has continuously declined during the past three years? What steps is the Minister taking to stimulate recruiting for it?
§ Mr. HendersonI am glad to say that recently there has been a steady improvement in recruiting.