49. Air Commodore Harveyasked the Minister of Transport and Civil Aviation what plans he has to ensure the future supply of civil airline pilots.
§ Mr. WatkinsonI would refer my hon. and gallant Friend to the reply given to the Member for Uxbridge (Mr. Beswick) on 30th January. Since then I have discussed the matter with a deputation led by the Chairman of the Air League of the British Empire, and I am considering their views.
Air Commodore HarveyWill my right hon. Friend discuss with the Secretary of State for Air the question of trying to use Royal Auxiliary Air Force pilots who are being thrown on the scrap heap? It would not cost the State anything. Could they not be employed as supernumerary pilots not only in the great Corporations but in private companies? Surely they could make some use of them?
§ Mr. WatkinsonI have already discussed that question, and I hope some advantage will be gained from it.
§ Mr. BeswickAs this is not a new problem, but one which has been discussed in the House during a period of years, how soon will it be before we may expect the right hon. Gentleman to make up his mind upon it?
§ Mr. Watkinsonis the hon. Gentleman referring to recruitment or to the Auxiliary Air Force pilots? To recruitment? The question of recruitment depends very much on the position of the Royal Air Force. That, no doubt, will become clearer in the next few months. We shall keen the position under review.