§ 25. Mr. Edenasked the Secretary of State for Air What steps are being taken to bring the opportunities offered by the Royal Air Force to the notice of headmasters and others who are in a position to influence young men in their choice of career.
§ Mr. AmeryPart of our advertising campaign is addressed specifically to headmasters and patents. We also arrange visits to Royal Air Force stations at home and overseas for headmasters and careers masters. Our schools liaison officers visit schools to explain about careers in the Service and also keep in close touch with such bodies as University Appointments Boards and the Youth Employment Service.
Last October we also held a study conference on the aircrew recruiting problem which was attended by a number of distinguished persons with experience in education and youth work.
§ Mr. EdenCan my right hon. Friend give any figures to indicate the results which have so far been achieved in this direction, and also say to what extent 454 these young Service men, having been trained by the R.A.F. leave it and go to civilian occupations, after an expensive training?
§ Mr. AmeryOf course, it is terribly difficult to assess exactly the number of recruits we get from any particular recruiting activity, but our overall recruiting position is satisfactory. As I think my hon. Friend knows, the recruitment of aircrew has shown a dramatic improvement over the last 12 months. Wastage at the moment does not give us any cause for concern.
§ Mr. DugdaleAre these young men told, when they reach commissioned rank, that they will have to remain monks until they are 25?