HC Deb 28 February 2000 vol 345 cc26-7W
Mr. Ben Chapman

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what plans he has to enhance the participation of the Air Training Corps in the recruitment process of the Royal Air Force. [112134]

Mr. Spellar

None. Although we are pleased that members of the Air Training Corps (ATC) often go on to become high quality recruits for the RAF, the ATC is a national youth organisation, not a recruiting agency of the RAF.

Mr. Ben Chapman

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence what recent guidance he has issued to improve the relationship between air cadet organisations and the Royal Air Force. [112083]

Mr. Spellar

The Air Cadet Organisation and the Royal Air Force have long enjoyed a good relationship and continue to work closely together on a wide range of activities.

Mr. Ben Chapman

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence if he will make a statement on how the Air Training Corps contributes to the recruitment process of the Royal Air Force. [111875]

Mr. Spellar

Although the Air Training Corps (ATC) is not a recruiting agency, it is an important source of high quality recruits for the RAF. 16.1 per cent. of the overall intake during Financial Year 1998–99 were ex-air cadets, as the table shows.

1998–99 Entry into RAF Actual Ex-ATC and CCF(RAF) Percentage Ex-ATC and CCF(RAF)
Officers 533 252 47.3
Airmen aircrew 84 34 40.5
Ground airmen 3,682 407 11.0
Total 4,299 693 16.1