THE COLONIAL FORCES.

New Zealand Herald, Volume XXV, Issue 9086, 21 June 1888, Page 5

THE COLONIAL FORCES.

ANNUAL REPORTS.

[by TELEGRAPH.SPECIAL CORRESPONDENT.]

WEllington, Wednesday. The report on tho Now Zealand forces has been laid on the Table, though not yet circulated.

Sir George Whitmore's report to the Minister of Defence states that the Permanent Militia has been largely reduced, and two corps of Field Artillery and Engineers absorbed In the Garrison and regular Artillery and tho Torpedo Corps. Captain Falconer, of tho latter corps, had, as instructor, from his knowledge of submarine mining, made the Devonport Navals an effective reinforcement to their limited strength. Regret is expressed at dispensing with Colonel Roberta's services. Referring to Auckland, Sir George Bays : —" Except in Auckland, the volunteer spirit has not died out in the colony, and the numbers keep up. I am in hopes that in Auckland, when the severity of tho present depression abates, that that station, the most exposed in war, and the most difficult to reinforce, may once more develop the military spirit which has heretofore distinguished it. Of this I am quite sure, that if, unhappily, danger should arise, the Auckland volunteers will be found in their places to defend their city." He considers the capitation has been used wisely, and that, under the altered conditions of the colony, the volunteers will accept the reduced allowance willingly for a year or two, and that it will make no difference in their military spirit. Referring to volunteer inspections Sir George says : — " I have reported to you specially on the apparent falling off of the volunteer spirit in Auckland, and have made suggestions which may have more or less effect in restoring it. I must, however, except the Navals and 'A' Battery, which show no signs of falling off. It is to be regretted that a few members of the former corps misbehaved at the opening of the Calliope Dock, and forgot to respect their uniforms. An inquiry into this matter establishes considerable excuse for the men's misconduct, and made it evident that it had been confined to a very few men. Two have been dismissed in consequence. lam obliged to say that I believe if more prudent precautions had been taken the occurrence would not have taken place." Ho further remarks that as Auckland is the most exposed port, and the most difficult to reinforce, a proportionately larger force is required to be maintained there than elsewhere. Sir George concludes his report as Commander of the Colonial Forces, by expressing the belief that the volunteers have now acquired such uniformity of discipline, dress, and drill, and the officers so much more efficiency, that if called out for active service, they would in a few weeks' continuous training become reliable soldiers, and would be formidable in the field.

The report of Mr. A. Bell, resident engineer, of the colonial defences, details the progress made with the harbour defences. The submarine defences are being brought rapidly into a forward condition by Captain Falconer. The artillery can now mount their own guns, a SVork which General Steward thought so difficult as to recommend bringing out experts from home. Two moro sites for defence purposes will have to be purchased in accordance with General Schaw's report, but the expense will not be serious.