asked the Secretary of State for Air if he is aware that senior meteorological officers in charge of groups of stations do not undertake forecasting duties; that this has a poor effect on subordinate staff and there is a consequent lack of supervision; and what is being done about this matter.

No, I think the hon. Member has been misinformed. Senior meteorological officers in charge of groups of stations do undertake forecasting duties. They have, however, a number of stations to administer and supervise, they cannot, therefore, undertake forecasting duties to the same extent as their subordinate staff.