:-
2.
6.
Conditions in Hong Kong give rise to doubt as to the
advisability of continuing to have as headquarters a ship. Cornflower
has experienced several typhoons in one of which she dragged,
grounded twice and narrowly escaped disaster to her self and to
Tonnochy Road Pier off which she is anchored 200 yards.
In Poace Training.
7. Cornflower is the nucleus around which the Force has grown
since its inception. From a beginning in 1934 the strength today
is 86 officers and 150 men. Further expansion is under way.
8. The Local Defence Scheme provides that Hong Kong Naval
Volunteer Force will operate Auxiliary Craft engaged in -
(a) Night Patrols, Minesweeping and Examination Survice.
Training for these service can be done only at sea.
(b) Watching of Controlled linoficlds.
9.
Training is done in the Naval Dockyard and will later be
practised at the loops when laid.
The Communication Branch, about to be formed, will train
in the Signal School in the Naval Dockyard.
10. Boat-drill, Gunnery and theoretical training in Seamanship,
Pilotage ctc. are given in the ship. They could be given equally
well from or in fully equipped Headquarters on the sea-front.
In Peace Social side of a Volunteer unit.
11. The ship has provided the congenial atmosphere that is
invaluable to a Volunteer unit. On social and sentimental grounds
the loss of the ship to the Force would be severo.
In War.
12.
Sevoral questions arise -
(a) Would the ship be an asset or a liability?
11
(b) Would she serve as Parent ship for Auxiliary craft; would
she be reduced to hulk status and extensive structural
alterations made to accommodate officers and men; or would
Tamar or quarters in the Naval Dockyard serve that purpose? (c) Would Tamar or quarters in the Naval Dockyard offer advantago
over Kollet Island?
No comments yet.
Private notes are available after approval.