HC Deb 22 October 1952 vol 505 cc986-7
19. Air Commodore Harvey

asked the Minister of Civil Aviation how many civil air attaches are competent to, and, in fact, fly aircraft in the course of their duties.

The Parliamentary Secretary to the Ministry of Civil Aviation (Mr. Reginald Maudling)

Of the three civil air attaches and three civil air advisers, four have flying experience. One of these flies in the course of his duties.

Air Commodore Harvey

Does not my hon. Friend agree that this is a most unsatisfactory state of affairs? In view of the importance of the export of British aircraft and equipment, ought not all these men to be able to fly in the course of their duties? Is it because we use the system of a permanent civil servant, instead of using the man most capable of doing that work?

Mr. Maudling

While agreeing with my hon. and gallant Friend as to the importance of promoting the sales of British aircraft abroad, I would not agree that this is an unsatisfactory situation. Flying experience is of course valuable to everybody occupying this type of position, but it is by no means the only consideration to be taken into account in making these appointments.

Major Anstruther-Gray

In view of the fact that a great many people have flying experience, would my hon. Friend look at the matter again?

Mr. Maudling

I have looked into it closely. I say that the possession of flying experience is one of the qualifications, but we have to decide what man is best, and we have to take into account not only that consideration but many others as well.