Police-1959-1960 — Page 26

RECRUITMENT

69. During the year under review a total of 45 overseas and 11 local sub-inspectors was recruited by direct entry; whilst 47 overseas and 4 local sub-inspectors passed through the school. At the end of the year 16 overseas and 7 local probationary sub-inspectors were still undergoing training. Out of 214 applications from local candidates for appointment as probationary sub-inspector only 8 were selected and a further 3 still remain on the waiting list.

70. A total of 12,025 applicants for the post of police constable was interviewed and tested. 580 recruits were taken on strength and of this total 166 were applicants who had applied during 1958/59. There were still 224 applicants under investigation.

71. During the year 457 recruit constables completed their period of training and passed-out from the school. Included in this total were 58 constables who had been recruited during the previous year. There were 351 recruit constables and three members of the District Watch Force still undergoing training at the end of the year. 23 women police constables completed their training during the year under review, whilst a further 26 are still undergoing training.

INITIAL TRAINING

72. All ranks are introduced to the Force through the Police Train- ing School where they are given an initial training course lasting six months. The syllabus covers a wide field and includes law and legal principles, court procedure, police regulations and duties, physical training, first aid, life saving, drill, and local and general knowledge. Apart from women officers all are additionally required to become proficient in the handling of various weapons and in riot drill. During the training period, overseas officers are taught basic Cantonese and recruit constables commence the study of English. The marine police are given special instruction in seamanship, port regulations and signalling.

IN-SERVICE TRAINING

73. In addition to initial training the Police Training School provides advanced training for police officers.

(i) Advanced training courses to increase efficiency and fitness for promotion are held at the Police Training School for N.C.O.s and constables. During the year 205 N.C.O.s attended courses lasting six weeks and 30 constables attended a four weeks' course.

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