HC Deb 08 March 1965 vol 708 cc12-3W
Mr. Gregor Mackenzie

asked the Secretary of State for Defence whether he will make a statement about the future of the Ulster Maritime Support Unit of the Royal Auxiliary Air Force.

Mr. Millan

The Royal Auxiliary Air Force at present consists of four Maritime Support Units, of which the Ulster Unit is one. Recent reconsideration of the needs of the Royal Air Force has, however, shown that the Ulster Unit is no longer required as the tasks of the stations that it serves have been changed. My noble Friend has considered very carefully whether it would be possible to find some other task for this Unit, but this has proved not to be possible. Accordingly, the Ulster Unit will be disbanded as from 31st March, 1965.

My noble Friend has taken this decision with great regret, because he is very much aware of the loyal and enthusiastic service which the members of this Unit have given. I would like to take the opportunity of expressing to them the sincere thanks of the Defence Council for the voluntary service which they have given to the nation.