§ Mr. MansTo ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many pilots expressed as a percentage of the total number in the Royal Air Force left at their 38/16-year option date, during the years 1986, 1987, 1988 and 1989; and what percentage retired prematurely and voluntarily prior to this option during the above mentioned years, having completed their flying training and either having reached their squadrons or been accepted for training as instructors.
§ Mr. Archie HamiltonThe proportion of Royal Air Force pilots, expressed as a percentage of the total pilot trained strength at 1 January each year, who left at their 38/16-year optional exit point was as follows:
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Percentage 1986 1.0 1987 0.8 1988 1.2 1989 1.3 expiries or exercise of rights at option point" and, for service women only, "By exercise of right to give 18 monts notice".
The proportion of pilots aged 38 and under who left on premature voluntary release during the same four years was:
Percentage 1986 0.4 1987 0.4 1988 1.2 1989 0.9