SERVICE BY WOMEN

Taranaki Daily News, 25 September 1940, Page 6

SERVICE BY WOMEN

MOTOR TRANSPORT CORPS NEW PLYMOUTH PROPOSAL RED CROSS ORGANISATION Uniformed probably in navy drill with a navy beret, a women's motor transport corps is to be established at New Plymouth by the Red Cross Society. The decision, which arose from a suggestion from Dominion headquarters, was made at a meeting of the local committee last night when steps were taken to arrange for lectures and ipstructors. Tra'ined personnel in all centres would be invaluable for ambulance and convoy work, stated the letter froin Wellington. The Director-Gen-eral 'of Medical Services had been informed that the service existed under the auspices of the Red Cross Society and would be available at his call. Army Drill. Foot and mechanised drill according to Army regulations is proposed, and air raid and gas drill is also suggested for a nine weeks' course of mechanical tuition. Road troubles, running repairs, car maintenance and a "get-you-home" service are among subjects for instruction. Driving and handling of lorries will be taught and a knowledge of towing must be acquired. Members will be expected to be competent to drive and handle all makes of cars. A proposed syllabus of eight practical and four theory lectures covers every -department of car and engine construction. The corps, which will be under the control of a commandant, will be divided into units, each in charge of a unit leader. Members will be obliged to attend parades when called upon, and should they miss a parade without obtaining leave of | absence or miss more than two consecutive parades they will automatically be transferred to a reserve unit. The president. Mr. H. V- S. Griffiths, Mesdames.A. Patrick and J. ,0. Turner and Miss G. Jemison, secretary. were deputed to arrange for lectures and instructors.