THE ARMED SERVICES AND AUXILIARY SERVICES
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and allied subjects. Cadet services are in increasing demand to assist in controlling crowds during performances sponsored by kaifong and charitable organisations, gov- ernment campaigns and sports events.
In October 1973, a 50-acre site was granted to the Civil Aid Services for use as a camping area for cadets. The site is situated 750 feet above Tsing Lung Tau near Tsuen Wan and comprises the old deserted village of Yuen Tun, surrounding hills and abandoned paddy fields. To make the camp site habitable, a lot of work is required and in 1974 the government granted funds for the construction of essential facilities. In February, 68 Gurkha Engineers and 3 Field Squadron, Royal Engineers, constructed a motor road to within 200 yards of the village. The cadets have also renovated the old houses and opened neglected drainage channels and village paths. When the project is completed, it will be possible for up to 300 youths to camp in the area at any time.
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The Auxiliary Medical Service, formed 24 years ago, has now reached full strength with a membership in excess of 6,200 volunteers. The majority of members are in the age group 17-25 years. Other members comprise volunteers of the medical and nursing profession. Non-professional members are trained regularly in first aid, nursing and casualty handling. Practical training involves the manning of Fire Service ambulances at weekends, ward training in major hospitals, and reinforcing the life- guard force of the Urban Services Department during the swimming season. The main emphasis in training has been on the Auxiliary Medical Service's operational role.
During emergencies Auxiliary Medical Service officers and members are called out, as required, to augment regular staff in the Medical and Health Department, Fire Services ambulance division, Social Welfare Department, City District_Offices and to provide first aid parties to assist the Civil Aid Services.
The Auxiliary Medical Service has teams in all parts of the urban areas, the New Territories and on the off-shore islands. There is always a long waiting list of volun- teers wishing to join the service.
The Auxiliary Fire Services
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The strength of the Auxiliary Fire Services has been further reduced over the past year, following the introduction of new service requirements in 1972. These are minimum attendance of 50 per cent, compulsory retirement at the age of 50 and up- grading of medical standards. At the close of the year, there were 171 auxiliary fire officers and men, compared with 199 at the end of 1973.
Seven officers attended a 10-day breathing apparatus training course at the Fire Services Training School to qualify as instructors. The aim is to qualify all members to wear breathing apparatus.