§ 8. Mr. Jannerasked the Minister of Supply why Government test pilots are to be replaced by Royal Air Force test pilots in Government aircraft establishments, in view of the excellent work which these test pilots have done in the past.
§ Mr. SandysI am at present considering whether any change should be made in the proportions of civilian and Service test pilots employed in Ministry of Supply establishments. I have not yet reached a decision on this question.
§ Mr. JannerWhile the Minister is considering the future of those now employed will he bear in mind that they have been engaged upon a very risky type 6 of work and that the incidence of death in the experiments conducted by them and their colleagues has been high and will he assure us that he will not, merely for the sake of economy, discharge people who have rendered very considerable service to the country?
§ Mr. SandysI am glad that the hon. Gentleman has given me the opportunity to say publicly that I am well aware of the fine record of skill and courage of both civilian and Service test pilots.
§ Mr. JannerThat is not an answer to my question.