HC Deb 27 October 1954 vol 531 c1916
40. Dr. King

asked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether he will increase the flying time allowed to cadets in the Air Training Corps.

Mr. Ward

Yes, Sir. By employing capacity available in aircraft used for training fighter control units we hope to give cadets in the Air Training Corps appreciably more air experience.

Dr. King

I thank the Minister for that answer. I am certain that he will agree that flying time is a great incentive to the young lads. Is he aware that Southampton Air Cadets are at present getting only 20 minutes' flying time per year?

Mr. Ward

That is not quite true. Over last year the squadron averaged about 30 minutes, which was all that we had undertaken to give until the recent concession, which should add about 7,000 flying hours a year for cadets.

Dr. King

In view of the hair-splitting disagreement about the figures, will the hon. Gentleman assure us that he will raise the flying time not by another five minutes but by a considerable amount?