WOMEN AND WAR EFFORT

Press, Volume LXXVII, Issue 23248, 7 February 1941, Page 8

WOMEN AND WAR EFFORT

Keen Desire To Assist AIR FORCE AUXILIARY APPLICATIONS Mentioning that so far 270 applications had been received in Christchurch for positions in the Women's Auxiliary Air Force, members of which will be permanently located at training stations, Miss Mabel Howard, chairwoman of the Women’s War Service Auxiliary, said yesterday that there was plenty of evidence that the women of Christchurch were very s keen to help the war effort. “The types of young womanhood offering their services for the Air Force are excellent,” Miss Howard said. “Women now earning salaries of up to £5 a week in business and in offices have applied for positions and are prepared to take the most menial jobs at £2 2s a week.” No details of the number of women who would be engaged for work at Wigram and Harewood had been supplied and the War Service Auxiliary had not expressed its opinion on the latest proposal. Further evidence that women were anxious to help the war effort was that nearly 300 attended the start of the transport corps last week. Platoons were formed and commanding oflicers appointed. On Saturday afternoon the first meeting of the cycle and signal corps was held. About 60 girls were riding bicycles. They went to the St. Margaret's College playing fields, where an outline of the organisation was given. After forming a corps of cycle mechanics, the girls were given a demonstration of signalling by Miss Donaldson, of the Girl Guides' Association, and, after a community sing, were entertained at afternoon tea.