asked the Secretary of State for Air what is the usual period of waiting before the acceptance of personnel for air service as members of air crews and the commencement of elementary flying training; and whether he is aware of the disappointment at the long delays entailed?
The period of waiting, which I regret is at present considerable, varies according to a number of factors but I am unable to give details as these might be of value to the enemy. I have every sympathy with the desire of aircrew volunteers to commence their flying training with as little delay as possible, but since the rate of intake for training necessarily varies for operational and other reasons, it is essential to maintain a substantial reserve of men to ensure that the maximum use is made at all times of available facilities.