§ Major Wilkesasked the Under-Secretary of State for Air whether he is aware that both aircrews and groundcrews from the various units of B.A.F.O. are brought to the Island of Sylt for 14 days' airfiring practice although its geographical situation makes it practically unserviceable throughout the winter; that 6,002 Servicing Echelon, R.A.F., B.A.F.O., during the 14 working days, only had one whole day and part of three others flying weather; that living conditions for airmen on his island are bad owing to lack of adequate winter quarters, lack of fuel and the failure of mail deliveries; and whether he will call for a report and take immediate remedial action.
§ Mr. StracheyThe Island of Sylt is the most suitable place in the British Zone of Occupation for training in air firing. The number of days fit for flying during the past five months has in fact averaged 23 a month. During the period of attachment of 6,002 Servicing Echelon weather conditions were abnormal; but even so air training was possible on six days. The quarters provided are weather proof and warm and have been passed by the Senior Medical Officer as suitable for winter occupation.
Mail is normally delivered daily to Sylt, but for detachments who are temporarily there it has to be specially forwarded. Unfortunately during the time that members of 6,002 Servicing Echelon were at Sylt, the weather at their usual station was so bad that it was only possible for the mail to be flown to Sylt once. I regret that other arrangements were not made for the special delivery of mail.