R.A.A.F. Has Surplus Of Trained Air Crews

Northern Advocate, 2 December 1944, Page 5

R.A.A.F. Has Surplus Of Trained Air Crews

CANBERRA. This Day

The R.A.A.F. has a surplus of fullytrainecl air crews and the training of large numbers undergoing courses is to be slowed down or temporarily suspended, the Acting-Minister for Air (Mr Lazzarint), tolcl the House oL' Representatives yesterday. Some partly trained men would obtain their discharge if they wished, and the remainder would be- temporarily released without pay for seasonal or other employment. he said. As required, they could then be re-mustcred or transferred to the reserve.

Mr Lazzarini explained that the surplus of air crews was dug to the sudden discontinuance of the despatch overseas a"' quotas to which Australia was previously committed. Britain had notified that she required no more trained air crews from Australia for the R.A.F. and no more Australian air crew trainees were to be sent to Canada.

“All our available air crew personnel cannot, in the present circumstances, be gainfully employed on air crew duties.” the Minister added. However, the new situation did not mean that there was any less need for enlistments for the ground staff. Large numbers were needed to replace those released and to make up for the general wastage. Large numbers of girls over 18 were also needed for the W.A.A.F. The Air Training Corps would continue to function, though enlistments for air crews from the corps would be on a reduced scale.