§ 12. Sir A. V. Harveyasked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he will make a statement on the future of the Royal Air Force Regiment; and what its strength in officers and other ranks is at the present time.
§ The Under-Secretary of State for Defence for the Royal Air Force (Mr. Bruce Millan)The Royal Air Force Regiment has two main functions. One is to defend R.A.F. airfields and installations from ground attack and from low level air attack. The second is to provide fire, crash and rescue facilities throughout the Royal Air Force. It is also employed where necessary on internal security and anti-sabotage duties. There is a continuing need for the Regiment, which provides an economic and effective means of protecting Royal Air Force bases. It has repeatedly proved its value and is giving outstanding service in current operations in Cyprus. Aden and Malaysia.
The R.A.F. Regiment at present consists of six field squadrons (of which one is parachute trained), five light anti-aircraft squadrons, and the fire fighting crews. Its strength is approximately 260 officers, 1,900 gunners and 2,300 firemen.
§ Sir A. V. HarveyIs the hon. Gentleman aware that as the Royal Air Force is having to take what Sir Roy Dobson 826 described as the "clapped out" transport C130, it is very relieved to hear that at any rate this force, which has done so much for the Service over the years, is secure?