§ Mr. Perkinsasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware of the mental anxiety of the older married flying instructors in the Volunteer Reserve at the elementary flying training schools, caused by financial difficulties resulting from the lack of living accommodation on these aerodromes and the inflated cost of living out; and whether 611W he will consider granting all married flying instructors over the age of 35 at the elementary flying training schools squadron-leaders' allowances, irrespective of their present rank?
§ Sir A. SinclairNo representations have been received in my Department which support the suggestion made by my hon. and gallant Friend in the first part of the Question. As regards the second part, an officer of 35 years of age holding a post as flying instructor would normally have reached a rank not lower than flight lieutenant, and, whether, living with his family or separated from them, would receive allowances practically equal to those of a squadron leader.
§ Mr. Perkinsasked the Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that flying instructors at the elementary flying training schools are compelled to live out; 612W and whether, in view of the difficulties of obtaining accommodation in certain areas of which he is acquainted, he will endeavour to give them reasonable warning before posting them to other stations?
§ Sir A. SinclairYes, Sir, but it will be appreciated that the exigencies of war make it necessary on occasions to effect postings at very short notice.