§ Sir G. STRICKLANDasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that officers of the Royal Air Force have resumed duty after forced landings that broke two or four limbs; and whether, in view of this example, he will consider the advisability of granting additional emoluments, in the shape of pay or pensions, to Air Force officers that have received serious injuries on duty?
§ Sir S. HOAREAn officer who sustains injuries of the nature referred to in the question does not resume duty in the Royal Air Force unless and until he is reported fit for service by a board of medical officers. When the injury is caused by flying duty the normal period of sick leave on full pay is 12 months, which may be extended up to a further period of six months. The suggestion contained in- my hon. Friend's question is, in effect, one for the reintroduction of a system which was very fully considered and rejected in 1921, and I do not see any good reason for a reconsideration of that decision.