§ 21. Mr. Russellasked the Secretary of State for Air whether, in order to prevent recruiting for the Air Training Corps being discouraged, he will ensure that, as a general rule, Air Training Corps cadets, on being called up, are posted to the Royal Air Force.
§ Mr. A. HendersonCadets who gain the Air Training Corps proficiency certificate and are physically fit have a guarantee of acceptance into the R.A.F. when called up for National Service. I regret I am unable to guarantee acceptance into the R.A.F. of cadets below the proficiency standard but I can say that, in fact, about 95 per cent. of non-efficient cadets who opt for service in the R.A.F. are accepted.
§ 28. Wing-Commander Bullusasked the Secretary of State for Air how many cadets of No. 65 (L.R.) Group, Air Training Corps, have had flying experience during the last 12 months; and what is the average amount of flying experienced by each eligible cadet during this period.
§ Mr. A. HendersonThis information is not readily available, but I am obtaining it and will write to the hon. and gallant Member.
§ Wing-Commander BullusIs there a shortage of equipment which prevents more flying, because cadets are discouraged if they do not get their quota of flying?
§ Mr. HendersonI was not aware of that, but I will certainly look into that suggestion.
§ 29. Mr. Russellasked the Secretary of State for Air what type of rifle is issued to units of the Air Training Corps at present; and on what scale.
§ Mr. A. HendersonA.T.C. units are issued with small and full bore rifles on the following scales:.22 rifles—2 for first 40 cadets and 1 for every 25 cadets in excess of 40;.300 drill purpose rifles—6 for every 30 cadets with a minimum issue of 12 per squadron; short Lee Enfield Mark III rifles—2 for every 5 cadets.
§ Mr. RussellIs the right hon. and learned Gentleman aware that some units have only full-size heavy rifles, which are very inconvenient for boys of 14? Will he look into the matter to see if they can be supplied with rifles of smaller bore?