HC Deb 04 November 2002 vol 392 cc67-8W
Mr. Hancock

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence how many RAF squadrons have their full complement of(a) pilots and (b) ground crews; which squadrons do not have a full complement of (i) pilots, (ii) ground crew; and if he will make a statement. [78270]

Mr. Ingram

On 25 October 13 RAF front line fixed and rotary wing squadrons had their full complement of pilots and 20 had a full complement of ground crew.

The following front line squadrons did not have a full complement of pilots: 1, 2, 7, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 18, 25, 27, 28, 31, 33, 43, 101, 111, 216 and 230.

The following front line squadrons did not have a full complement of ground crew 7, 8, 18, 23, 25, 27, 28, 28, 33, 47, 70, 216 230.

RAF manning shortfalls are well known and are being addressed. The RAF continues to meet its operational commitments.