§ 5. Mr. Beswickasked the Minister of Civil Aviation if he is now satisfied with the rate of recruitment of air-line pilots; and what steps he is taking to publicise the opportunities now offered to enter this profession through initial air-crew training as a National Service man.
§ Mr. MaclayI understand that the Corporations are generally satisfied with the present rate of recruitment but other operators are finding difficulty in satisfying their requirements. Arrangements have been made with the Admiralty and the Air Ministry to bring the opportunities offered in civil aviation to the notice of serving pilots and the Air Training Corps: the University Appointments Boards, the Public Schools Appointments Board and the Central Youth Employment Executive have also been invited to help.
§ Mr. BeswickI am sure the Minister agrees that it is absolutely essential for us to have the right quantity of recruits and the right type, but will he also agree that it is a matter of getting our young people to know that it is possible to enter into this profession through their National Service training as a first step?
§ Mr. MaclayYes, I fully appreciate the importance of these points, and I know the hon. Member's past interest in this matter.