§ 69. Sir W. Smithersasked the Secretary of State for Air what conditions govern further promotion after aircrew 173W passing out and promotion to aircrew 1; and what relation these conditions bear to work done and flying hours accomplished.
§ Mr. A. HendersonThe conditions governing the promotion of aircrew above the rank of aircrew III are a combination of length of aircrew service, technical qualifications, and flying hours accomplished. As the application of these conditions is complicated, I am sending the hon. Member a copy of the relevant Air Ministry Order.
§ 70. Sir W. Smithersasked the Secretary of State for Air why aircrew at present serving cannot sign on for 22 years total service with pension as aircrew; and why men showing willingness to serve must also show willingness to be grounded at lower rates of pay if they desire to sign on for long service.
§ Mr. HendersonIn the case of aircrew entered as signallers, engineers or gunners, vacancies for long service re-engagement as aircrew already exist. I am reconsidering the question of long service re-engagement as aircrew for pilots and navigators. The second part of the hon. Member's Question does not, therefore, arise at this stage.