§ Sir J. Smedley Crookeasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that hardship is felt in the ranks of the Royal Air Force by reason of the Air Ministry order of 9th November, 1939, which forbids commissions being granted to serving airmen unless they are airmen pilots or warrant officers; and will he consider the advisability of revising this order so that other airmen who are worthy of it and are otherwise qualified may have the chance of being commissioned?
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§ Sir K. WoodThe Air Ministry Order to which my hon. Friend refers was provisional and was prefaced by the statement that a more comprehensive Order would be issued as soon as possible. Under the terms of the present Order, it is the case that recommendations for commissions are limited to airman pilots and warrant officers. The further Order, which will be issued as soon as possible, will call for recommendations in respect of other airmen. Such recommendations have in fact already been invited in respect of personnel specially qualified for commissioned air gunner and for balloon duties.