TNAG-0538-FCO40-633-Strength-of-garrison-in-Hong-Kong-1975 — Page 174

CONFIDENTIAL

3RD DRAFT

14.

RECOGNITION OF SERVICE TRAINING

The

Negotiations continue to ensure that Servicemen achieve

nationally recognised qualifications on completion of training.

These awards include Ordinary National Certificates in Engineering

and various City and Guilds of London Institute Certificates.

eligibility of some categories for registration as Technician

Fngineers (CEI) or Technicians (CEI) as appropriate has been

recognised and discussions continue on the eligibility of others.

FLYING TRAINING

Royal Navy

15. The Bulldog has replaced the Chipmunk in basic fixed-wing

flying training for Royal Navy helicopter pilots. The Gazelle

helicopter is now in service and has been used for basic helicopter

flying training since January 1975.

16. On 1 April 1974 the Aircrewman Branch was formed to provide

the necessary manpower for aircrew duties, formerly provided by

ratings loaned from other Branches. The Aircrewman Branch will

provide a career with an advancement structure based on the develop-

ment of aircrewman skills.

Army

17. The Army Air Corps trains its own pilots and aircrewmen and

the pilots of the Royal Marines Commando Brigade Squadron. The

Sioux helicopter is being gradually replaced by the Gazelle for

flying training beyond the basic stage.

Royal Air Force

18. A new pattern of pilot training was introduced towards the

end of 1974 which reduced training time without lowering standards.

VI-5

CONFIDENT I AL