asked the Secretary of State for Air if he is aware that there appears to be waste of civilian manpower at certain R.A.F. stations; and what steps are taken to keep under review the manpower position on these stations, with a view to ensuring the utmost economy consistent with efficient administration.

A.O.Cs. and Station Commanders are responsible for ensuring that no manpower is wasted on their stations. Station establishments are constantly reviewed by a special Committee of my Ministry; the members of this Committee make frequent inspections on the spot. The section officer on each station has the initial responsibility for the works employees; it is the duty of the local superintending engineer to keep their numbers under constant review. If the hon. Member will let me know on what stations he thinks that manpower is being wastefully used, I will cause inquiries to be made.

asked the Secretary of State for Air how many civilians are employed on or about St. Faiths R.A.F. Station, Norfolk, including those employed by contractors and those employed direct by his Department.

Eighty-five civilians are at present employed by my Department at the R.A.F. Station at Horsham St. Faiths. Thirty-three others are employed on the station by contractors.