HC Deb 13 July 1949 vol 467 cc419-20
28. Mr. J. Langford-Holt

asked the Parliamentary Secretary to the Admiralty what is the difference in daily flying pay paid to officers and petty officers; why this difference exists; and whether he considers that flying pay for both ranks is adequate after deduction of income tax.

The Parliamentary and Financial Secretary to the Admiralty (Mr. John Dugdale)

There is no difference in the daily rate of flying pay of 3s. payable to qualified officers and qualified air crew ratings. Flying pay at its present rate is part of the new pay code, but in common with all other items of naval pay it is constantly under review.

Mr. Langford-Holt

Is the right hon. Gentleman aware that this differentiation has nothing whatever to do with the pay code, because it applies to all the services of the Navy; and is he further aware that there is serious dissatisfaction with the 1s. 6d. per day, which is not considered adequate for this type of duty?

Mr. Dugdale

I have said that there is no differentiation. The hon. Gentleman is under a misapprehension.

Mr. Langford-Holt

I mean the differentiation between the ordinary general rates and flying pay; 1s. 6d. per day is quite inadequate?