§ 1. Mr. E. Johnsonasked the Secretary of State for Air if he has yet completed his review of the future rôle of the Education Branch of the Royal Air Force, with particular regard to the promotion prospects of squadron leaders; and if he will make a statement.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Air (Mr. Charles Ian Orr-Ewing)A detailed scheme has now been worked out and we are in touch with other Departments affected by our proposals. My right hon. Friend realises that there is anxiety about the promotion difficulties which could arise in the absence of special action, and he will let my hon. Friend know as soon as he is able to make a comprehensive statement.
§ Mr. JohnsonMay I ask my hon. Friend if he recalls that it is now three years since I was told that these matters were being considered? Can he now give an undertaking to put an end to this delay by making a statement, at any rate before the Christmas Recess? In so doing, will my hon. Friend pay particular attention to paragraph 189 of the Report of the Advisory Committee on Recruiting?
§ Mr. Orr-EwingMy right hon. Friend will do his utmost to make an early decision on this matter, but my hon. Friend will appreciate that this matter affects other Departments as well as our own.