§ Mr. J. McKayasked the Secretary of State for Air what system is to be arranged for choosing men to occupy houses built for the meteorological staff, so that it is manifestly fair to all concerned.
§ Mr. A. HendersonThe Air Ministry has a number of housing estates for which all staff employed in the neighbourhood, including meteorological staff, are eligible. The selection of tenants for these houses is determined locally but as differences have developed in the methods of selection, a uniform points system is being introduced. Allocation of civilian quarters overseas is on the basis of the period of current overseas tour so far served. An exception has been made in the case of Gibraltar where, to meet special local conditions, allocation is on a points system.
§ Mr. J. McKayasked the Secretary of State for Air how many houses are being built for the Meteorological Office staff at home and abroad under the Armed Forces (Housing Loans) Act, 1949; and what is the programme of building up to 1951 at home and abroad.
§ Mr. A. HendersonThe provision of houses under the Armed Forces (Housing Loans) Act, 1949, for civilian staff at home, including meteorological staff, is under consideration. The Act does not apply to houses abroad. The building programme for overseas areas provides for 51 married quarters to be built for 297W non-industrial civilian staff during 1950–51 and meteorological officers will be eligible for these in common with other staff.