Originally Posted by
Davef68
Rebadging doesn't happen that often these days on operational squadrons - the re-appearance of 12 Squadron being a notable exception - but has been quite common on Reserve squadrons as more senior numberplates were disbanded as operational squadrons (e.g. 4 Squadron replaced 20 as the Harrier OCU, then 19 at Valley)
Yes - the Air Ministry decided that renumbering should only occur in exceptional circumstances after the experience of much renumbering of squadrons in the late 50s/early 60s (3 Squadron, for instance went from Hunters to Canberra B(I)8s via Javelins through one disbandment and the renumbering of two other squadrons in the space of two years).
It was noted that the units required to renumber resented the move - their previous squadron had its own heritage, identity and ethos and the Air Ministry had, in their eyes, told them that this was less important than maintaining the existence of a more senior numberplate (using a seniority system which, as Jeff Jefford has noted, had various flaws). This was felt to have had a temporary affect on morale and possibly squadron efficiency.
There were - understandably - negative reactions from veterans of the squadrons which disappeared. This all led to the view that squadrons should not be renumbered unless it was considered important for this to happen and no other means of perpetuating a very senior numberplate could be used to achieve this goal.
OCU numberplates were not subject to the policy about seniority, hence renumbering was not an issue; reserve numberplates were (and IIRC, technically are) deemed not to exist until activated for operations. The rule has been awfully confused since ministerial interference after 1991 to ensure that the Sec of State could fend off questions about the disbandment of XV, 16 and 20 under Options for Change and service in Granby by saying that they had changed roles rather than been disbanded...