§ Mr. Churchillasked the Secretary of State for Defence what is his estimate of the number of RAF transport aircraft that would be available in the event of a European war specifically for casualty evacuation; and what is the total stretcher capacity of these aircraft.
§ Mr. BlakerNo aircraft are specifically earmarked for casualty evacuation. In the event of a European war it is planned to evacuate the majority of battle casualties by surface means, using specially earmarked trains and ferries. This capacity can be supplemented by RAF VC10 and Hercules transport aircraft returning from the Continent to the United Kingdom. The VC10 can accommodate up to 72 stretchers, and the Hercules 74 together with medical attendants in each case.