HC Deb 07 February 1951 vol 483 cc1710-1
10. Surgeon Lieut.-Commander Bennett

asked the Secretary of State for Air whether he will now consider the establishment of Air Sea Rescue squadrons in the Royal Auxiliary Air Force at suitable bases around our coast.

Mr. A. Henderson

This matter is still under consideration.

Surgeon Lieut.-Commander Bennett

As time continues to pass, allowing grass to grow, if not under the Minister's feet, at least under his seat, will he not deal with this subject rather more quickly, so that he may avail himself for the very large reservoir of useful, enthusiastic and experience seamen who go to sea as amateurs around our coasts, before they are all taken up for naval service?

Mr. Henderson

My hon. Friend the Under-Secretary indicated at the end of November that this matter was under consideration, but there has been under consideration an alternative proposition involving recruitment for the R.A.F.V.R. Those advising me should not be rushed into a final decision as to which of the alternatives they should recommend.

Mr. Profumo

Is the Minister aware that in the answer, to which he has just referred, by the Under-Secretary, at the end of November, the hon. Gentleman then said that this matter has not a very high priority at this time."—[OFFICIAL REPORT, 15th November, 1950; Vol. 480, c. 1712.] Can we take it from the Minister's answer that the matter now has the highest priority?

Mr. Henderson

No, Sir. It has not the highest priority. It has a relative priority.

Air Commodore Harvey

Does not the right hon. and learned Gentleman agree that in view of the present situation he ought to give this matter his immediate attention and get something done?

Mr. Henderson

The hon. and gallant Member knows quite well how these things are done. The matter is not being held up. It is being considered by officers of great experience. As soon as they are able to put forward a final recommendation, we shall take the necessary action.