§ Mr. G. Sharpasked the Secretary of State for Air to what extent the release of wireless mechanics is lagging behind the normal scale of release; whether any of the work they are now doing could be taken over by general duties men, who had the same initial technical training; to what extent the retarded release is due to their employment on work for B.O.A.C. and other non-military work; and what prospects there are of reducing the deferment of release.
§ Mr. P. Noel-BakerThe release of wireless mechanics is at present five groups behind the general level of release for ground airmen and I cannot say when the position will improve. I am afraid the suggestion in the second part of my hon. Friend's Question is impracticable. Some other tradesmen have the same initial technical training, but the wireless mechanic is a specialised expert and cannot be replaced by a man of another trade. The release position of wireless mechanics is not affected by the fact that a small number of them serve civil as well as R.A.F. aircraft.
§ Mr. Callaghanasked the Secretary of State for Air if he is aware that in the India Command some radar mechanics are being misemployed as clerks; and, in those 194W circumstances, why their releases are below the general level.
§ Mr. P. Noel-BakerInstructions have been issued forbidding the misemployment of airmen in trades in which release is delayed. If my hon. Friend will let me have details of any particular case he has in mind, I will look into the matter.