8. Dr. Bennettasked the First Lord of the Admiralty his policy about the provision of air experience for officers qualified as aircraft pilots, but not so employed.
§ Mr. J. P. L. ThomasThe Admiralty attach great importance to the maintenance in flying practice of all pilots. A minimum amount of flying practice is required of pilots not employed in flying appointments, although initially, while experience in this arrangement is being gained, the rule is enforced only for pilots serving at naval air stations. Pilots in other appointments are expected to use any available opportunity to keep themselves in flying practice.
Dr. BennettIs my right hon. Friend satisfied that the necessary minimum laid down for pilots not employed on flying duties is sufficient thoroughly to keep their hand in, in view of the increasing complexity of the cockpits and cockpit drill, and all the difficulties of flying?
§ Mr. ThomasYes, Sir. I will go into this matter carefully, but I am so far satisfied that enough time is given.
§ Air Commodore A. V. HarveyIf the First Lord encounters any difficulty in this matter, will he consult the Secretary of State for Air to try to get integration between the two Services?
§ Mr. ThomasYes, Sir.