Women's Royal Air Force

HC Deb 07 May 1958 vol 587 cc1208-9

31. Mr. Mason

asked the Secretary of State for Air to what extent he is successfully pursuing his policy of accelerating the build-up of the Women's Royal Air Force, and increasing their contribution to the Royal Air Force; and what plans he has in mind to attract more women into the force.

Mr. C. I. Orr-Ewing

In the first four months of this year the number of recruits was about the same as in the first four months of 1957. In the second part of this period there was an encouraging upward trend, which no doubt reflects the early results of the recent pay increases. The figures for April were 50 per cent. up on last year's. Resignations have been marginally down.

The review of conditions of service which is being undertaken by the Grigg Committee, of course, extends to women as well as men. Meanwhile, we are stepping up publicity for the career which we are already able to offer. I am grateful to the hon. Member for the chance to emphasise once again the opportunities that are open to young women in the Service.

Mr. Mason

Is that sufficient? What plans, or should I say, what sketches, has the hon. Gentleman in mind for glamourising the W.R.A.F. uniform? Has not he noticed the recent fashion trend towards shorter skirts? Would not the introduction of shorter skirts not only prove attractive to the W.R.A.F., but also provide a stimulus to R.A.F. recruiting as well?

Mr. Orr-Ewing

I agree with the hon. Gentleman's remark that perhaps a little more femininity in the uniform would prove an attraction, and we are, in fact, examining some concrete proposals, if I may use that term. I hope that that will effect the right result.

Mr. de Freitas

Whatever figures the Under-Secretary looks at and studies in this connection, will he look at the recruiting figures of the R.A.F. as a whole for the last quarter, which reveal that the figures which showed the greatest shortage are not in skirts, but in the trades which women could carry out very well indeed—the administrative trades? This is a highly important point. Should not the hon. Gentleman emphasise W.R.A.F. recruiting for those trades?

Mr. Orr-Ewing

If I may make a serious reply, the right hon. Gentleman is absolutely right. We are particularly anxious to attract new recruits for the Women's Royal Air Force in these trades, such as the radar operating and administrative trades.