Dr. Russell Thomasasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he will consider the abolition of the rank of sergeant-pilot and the promotion of all sergeant-pilots 1546W now on the establishment to the rank of pilot-officer?
§ Captain BalfourNo, Sir. As I explained in reply to the hon. Member for Stoke-on-Trent (Mr. Ellis Smith) on 21st January, the identity of duties of officer pilots and sergeant-pilots applies only to actual flying. The former have other duties and responsibilities which sergeant-pilots are not required to undertake. Opportunities of promotion are, of course, open to sergeant-pilots who have shown themselves suitable and are recommended for commissioned rank.