§ 6. Mr. Emrys Hughesasked the Secretary of State for Air what was the number of airmen declared deserters each month in the years 1939 and 1949, showing for 1949 airmen serving on Regular engagements and National Service men separately.
§ Mr. A. HendersonAs the answer comprises a number of figures I will, with permission, circulate it in the OFFICIAL REPORT.
§ Mr. HughesCould the Minister say whether the rate of desertion is higher among National Service men or Regulars?
§ Mr. HendersonLast year, the number of Regular airmen who deserted was 467 and National Service men, 147.
§ Following is the answer:
§ Mr. A. HendersonFamilies of airmen posted overseas may, when required to vacate married quarters, be accommodated at personnel transit camps until they secure other accommodation or join the husbands at their overseas stations.
§ Mr. HaireDoes my right hon. and learned Friend realise that by the very nature of their mobility these airmen's families sacrifice their claim to local housing? Would he not consider that where such camp arrangements are not possible additional allowance should be given to enable these families to take furnished accommodation, at any rate, temporarily?
§ Mr. HendersonI am glad to be able to say that to date the accommodation available in these personnel transit stations has been adequate to meet all the demands.
§ Mr. HaireDoes my right hon. and learned Friend realise how disturbing it can be to the education of a young family, through having to move from district to district?
§ Mr. HendersonI am afraid that it is one of the penalties that has, unfortunately, to be accepted by those who belong to our Defence Services.