DEFENCE FORCES OF NEW ZEALAND. REPORT OF THE GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING THE FORCES, FOR THE PERIOD FROM 31st MAY, 1917, TO 1st JULY, 1918.

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1918 Session I-II, H-19

H.—l9

Session 11. 1918. NEW ZEALAND

DEFENCE FORCES OF NEW ZEALAND. REPORT OF THE GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING THE FORCES, FOR THE PERIOD FROM 31st MAY, 1917, TO 1st JULY, 1918.

Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly by Command of His Excellency.

Sm,— Headquarters, N.Z. Military Forces, Wellington, 22nd October, 1918. I have, the honour to submit herewith the annual report on the Defence Forces. The report covers the period from the 31st May, 1917, to the Ist July, 191.8. The work of the Department due to the continuance of the war shows -a steady increase, and no diminution can be expected until the necessity for further Reinforcements no longer exists. Our active, Forces abroad have, been fully maintained, and at no time has there been any lack of Reinforcements, equipment, or supplies. The physique of Reservists coming into camp as Reinforcements is quite up to the best; in some cases it is better than that of the previous year. The Territorial Force, and Cadets under the Defence Act, 1909, have been maintained as in previous years. Instructions have been issued that every consideration is to be given to meet employers, authority being given to District Officers throughout the Dominion to meet the wants of essential industries on the spot without the necessity of reference to Headquarters. It again gives me much pleasure to bring to your notice the continued and excellent work carried out by officers, rank and file, and civilian employees generally in the Defence Department, also to acknowledge the cordial assistance of the, various Departments of the Public Service of the Dominion for helpful assistance during the year. 1 have, &c, A. W. Robin, Major-General, Commanding N.Z. Military Forces. The Don the Minister of Defence, Wellington, N.Z.

SECTION I.—THE DOMINION SECTION OF THE IMPERIAL GENERAL STAFF. 1. Drills and Parades. Owing to the calls of essential labour the, drills and parades of both the Territorial and Cadet Forces have been considerably curtailed during the past training-year. This reduced training was the result of a conference held at Headquarters, and attended by District Commanders and General Staff Officers of all four districts," in November, 1917. The result of this Dominion conference was — (a.) To reduce Territorial training in country areas to a quarterly muster parade and the annual camp. (b.) Territorial training in town areas to remain as in the past, with the exception that musketry to be performed in half-day parades, (c.) Cadet training in country areas suspended for the duration of the war except for four quarterly muster parades. ((/.) Cadet training in town areas to remain as in the past. This new system of training has naturally decreased the efficiency of Territorials and Cadets in country areas. The majority of these, are, however, engaged in essential industries, and the consequent loss to the Defence Force has been compensated for by the increased value to tho Dominion.

I—H. 19.

H.—l9

2

With regard to the Territorials and Cadets in town areas, all districts are unanimous that the Territorial camps this year have shown an increased standard of both discipline and efficiency. This has been attributable to the fact that— (1.) The Territorial Force is now almost entirely- composed of youths of eighteen and nineteen years of age. The majority of these have passed through, four years of progressive training in the Cadet Forces, and are imbued with a higher appreciation of the necessity for military training than the Territorial recruits of the past. (2.) The majority of units are now very reduced in numbers, owing to the fact that all their eligible members have proceeded to the front. This year it was decided to concentrate the available instructional staff in each district and to bring units into concentration camps. The, system has proved infinitely superior to the past system of unit camps, and is considered the most economical and productive method. (3.) At the outbreak of war a considerable number of temporary appointments to the training staff were made in the Dominion. A. large number of these temporary instructors were deficient in experience and partially ignorant of their duties. During the past four years every endeavour has been made by the General Staff to improve the efficiency of these instructors by means of district courses of instruction, with the result that the majority are now efficient. This efficiency is largely responsible for tho increased results of the past year. The same applies to temporary and reserve officers of units, who have also benefited by instructional courses during the past four years. (4.) Annually some seven to eight thousand Territorials arrive at military age for service with the Expeditionary Force. This knowledge, and the fact that the Territorial has now been taught to appreciate the value of good discipline and' individual efficiency, has undoubtedly bad a considerable effect on the improvement that has been made. Although the number of Territorials and Cadets in training has been diminished, the standard of training has shown a marked improvement, and the work performed in the annual camps of 1918 has been more satisfactory than in any previous year of the war. The Director of Military Training, Officers Commanding Districts, and those commanding the Territorial camps have expressed their satisfaction with the increased discipline and individual efficiency of those attending. In cases where undue hardship was proved exemption from military training has been granted, and to facilitate this special arrangements were made to place the power of exemption in the hands of senior officers, from whom exemption is obtainable in all genuine cases with a minimum amount of delay or inconvenience. Tho wisdom of having retained the training of the Territorial and Cadet Forces throughout the war is borne out by the following extract from the Defence Expenditure Commission's report: " The testimony of witnesses whose opinion is well worthy of consideration agreed that more was due to the work done in the Territorial Force in the short time, of its existence before the war than was at present understood, and that it was most desirable, in spite of present manifold distractions, to keep the machine moving even at a slow gait, for if it were allowed to stop the task of starting it again would be huge." 2. Territorial Camps. (a.) In accordance with instructions issued by the General Staff, sufficient camps were held in each district to provide for the training of those Territorials able to enter camp. These camps have been chosen with regard to the following : — (1.) To permit the concentration of Territorials with, the least possible delay and inconvenience to those attending : (2.) Adjacent to rifle ranges or other suitable training-ground : (3.) The most economical sites. In the majority of cases the camps were held in suitable localities which fulfilled all the above conditions, although in certain camps range accommodation was either limited or entirely absent. In such cases the, requirements of economy and proximity to Territorials attending outweighed the necessity for range accommodation, and in these cases it was generally recognized that musketry could be performed during other portions of the year. The use of show and race grounds for the purpose of these concentration camps effected a considerable saving in tentage, and permitted instruction in wet weather. With the exception of Canterbury District these concentration camps were under the command of the senior Territorial officers, all of whom performed this duty most creditably. Every endeavour was made to place the minimum strain on both the employer and employee engaged in essential industries. Elaborate arrangements ensured that as few employees as possible from any particular firm or industry attended camp at any one time Liberal exemption from training was granted, and arrangements were made to ensure genuine cases of hardship obtaining exemption with the minimum amount of trouble. Unit, camps were suspended, and district concentration camps held in their stead. These camps were held at suitable centres throughout each district and allowed the concentration of the most expert instructors, who after finishing one camp passed on to the next. This afforded all attending an excellent opportunity of benefiting to the maximum extent by tho instruction given, while permitting the strength of the instructional staff to be reduced to a minimum. This system, while imposing a heavy strain on the instructional staff for a prolonged period, resulted in a very considerable improvement in both, discipline and individual efficiency. Thanks to the spirit and energy with which the training staff worked, all difficulties were surmounted and good results obtained. The outstanding feature of the 1917-18 Territorial camps was the presence of a large percentage of recruits who had

3

H.—l9

had the' advantage of four years' Cadet training. All experienced officers brought into contact with the training-camps, 1917-18, are unanimous that the result, of this Cadet training very considerably increased the standard of discipline and efficiency, and that the type of recruit now found in the Territorial Force is infinitely superior to that of past years. Had Cadet training been suspended in 1914, these recruits would have been without discipline and without such efficiency ; by its continuance the Cadet Force is annually supplying the Territorial Force with some eight thousand, trained recruits, and at the same time retaining a strength of some thirty-two thousand Cadets in progressive training. The results achieved in the week of Territorial training were extraordinarily good, and reflected the greatest credit upon all concerned. Those attending displayed the utmost keenness and greatly benefited not only by the training but also by the fresh air and exercise which contributed to the excellent health of the troops in camp. Tho Commandant and the Chief of the General Staff were unable to visit many of the Territorial camps, owing to the pressure of war work, but the majority were visited by the Director of Military Training. Experience of the present war has shown that discipline and individual efficiency directly effect an economy in both life and treasure. The training given in the Cadet and Territorial Forces has largely contributed to the success of the Expeditionary Force, both in its training-camps and in the field, for neither discipline not efficiency can be, entirely obtained by a short period of training. The greatest credit is due to the instructors of the Headquarters and District Staffs, particularly' those who have returned from active service, who have worked so efficiently and well to help forward the training of the Cadet and Territorial Forces often in the face of almost insurmountable difficulties ; o . ...... also to those Medical Officers and the officers of the various religious denominations who were represented in camp. (b.) Territorial Units in Camps. In certain of these concentration camps as many as four units were represented at one time. As far as possible units in camp were kept intact for both training and administrative purposes. Each concentration camp possessed a permanent Commandant, Adjutant, and Quartermaster, in addition to the training staff. The camps were spread over a period of four months, from the tst February to the end of May, and arrangements wore made to permit; Territorials to select any one week for their training during this period. (c.) Discipline and Efficiency of Units in Camps. , The discipline of Territorial units in camp in 1918 was excellent, and is universally commented upon by all brought into contact with these camps. The instruction was of an elementary nature, and the standard of efficiency aimed at was attained by the majority of units. (d.) Financial saving effected by New System of Territorial Training. A very considerable financial saving has been effected by— (I.) The cessation of Territorial and Cadet training in country areas almost entirely reduces the heavy travelling-expenses formerly incurred by the instructional staff in such areas. (2.) The utilization of the same expert training staff for all district camps instead of scattering the available instructors over a number of unit camps. The new system has permitted tho reduction of the instructional staff, camps being so arranged as to permit the same instructors attending each, in turn. (3.) Small unit camps are less economical for the following reasons : — (i.) Each requires its full administrative and training staff. (ii.) Each requires a complete supply of instructional material. (iii.) Temporary camp arrangements have to be made in many centres instead of a few. (iv.) The transport of supplies of all kinds is more expensive to many small centres. 3. Courses of Instruction. Every endeavour has been made by the General Headquarters and District Staffs to give, officers and non-commissioned officers of the Territorial and Cadet Forces instruction in regard to the latest teachings and lessons of modern war and military training. It was considered necessary to curtail the number of courses of instruction during the past training-year. In view of the importance and value of such courses it is questionable if this effected a financial, saving proportionate to the loss of instruction suffered by officers and N.C.O.s. The most essential of these courses were held, as in previous years, by the Director of Military Training and the General Staff Officers in districts. These courses form the only means by which Territorial and Cadet officers and N.C.O.s can receive expert instruction. Those which were held were well attended, and most valuable work was performed. In addition, all except the most senior officers attending the Territorial concentration camps were put through a " refresher " course of musketry or other instruction during the periods that their men were being trained in elementary duties by the Staff instructors. These instructional courses enable all rank , to receive the benefit of the latest teachings in modern warfare and training from expert officers who have seen service during the present war. This training is of enormous value to all concerned, particularly to those who afterwards join the Expeditionary Force. A very considerable improvement has taken place in regard to the efficiency of officers and N.C.O.s temporarily posted for duty with the Permanent Staff, principally due to the excellent instruction given at these annual courses. Tho whole effort of tho Cadet Force has been to

H.—l9

4

send the Cadet into the Territorial Force as a trained recruit, and in the Territorial Force the desire has been to send its officers, N.C.O.s, and soldiers into the Expeditionary Force with a satisfactory standard of discipline and individual efficiency. In this way the Cadet and Territorial Forces have directly contributed in a large degree to the discipline and efficiency of the Expeditionary Force. 4. Staff and District Exercises. District exercises for the instruction of senior Staff, Territorial Force, and Cadet officers were held in the four military districts, as in past years, under tho personal guidance and instruction of the Director of Military Training. These district exercises are held by a Headquarters officer in order to ensure a uniform system of training throughout the Territorial and Cadet Forces, and to allow the Headquarters Staff to gain direct touch with all senior officers in the Dominion. By this means the General Staff at Headquarters is made acquainted with the views of those officers upon whom the efficiency of the Dominion Forces depends. These officers arc encouraged in every way to hold similar regimental exercises for the instruction of their officers and N.C.O.s. In addition, each district holds courses of instruction for officers and N.C.O.s of the Permanent and Temporary Staff, and for the instruction of officers and N.C.O.s of Territorial and Cadet, units prior to examination and to the annual camps. Voluntary courses of instruction for officers and N.C.O.s have been held in certain groups with great success : particularly is this the case with tho Wellington District. 5. Mounted Rifles. The majority of the rank and file of Mounted Rifle units are recruits of this or last year's postings. Owing to the facts that a large percentage of New-Zealand ers are able to ride, and that the present war requires expert knowledge of dismounted action, and the expenses connected with the supply of horses, it was considered advisable to dispense with mounted training during the continuance of the war. By this means a very considerable financial saving has been effected, while the improvement made in dismounted training has more than compensated for the loss of training in mounted duty. Like all other units, a steady flow of officers, N.C.O.s, and Territorials to the Expeditionary Force has reduced the establishments of all Mounted units. 6. Territorial Field Artillery. (a.) Field Artillery Cadres. These cadres possess a large percentage of temporary ranks enlisted from returned soldiers and men unfit for the Expeditionary Force. They have been put through a course of training at Wellington, and are now performing satisfactory duty with the various cadres. This has enabled the majority of the Royal New Zealand Artillery (Field Section) to join the Expeditionary Force. (b.) Territorial Field Artillery. Satisfactory training has been performed during the past year, although the Artillery units are handicapped in many ways. Considering the personnel is practically composed of recruits, the standard of efficiency is very good. The prominent feature of tho Field Artillery batteries is the soldierly spirit which exists. This spirit is reflected very noticeably in the Reinforcement drafts of the Expeditionary Force In accordance with the Department's policy of economy, few horses were available for Field Artillery camps, but the best work was done under the circumstances. The training given the Territorial Force in such, a highly technical unit as Artillery proves invaluable when its members join the Expeditionary Force. 7. Royal New Zealand Artillery. Training. Owing to fifteen out of twenty officers, and 164 out of 280 other ranks, being away with the Expeditionary Force, the training of those left behind has suffered to a certain extent, but the high state of efficiency attained prior to the war has stood them in good stead and enabled them stiil to maintain a reasonable standard of efficiency, though less time has been available for training. The training of Home Service men attached to tho Royal New Zealand Artillery has been extremely difficult owing to shortage of men, and to many of those available being physically or mentally unsuitable. However, a slight improvement has been made in efficiency during the year, especially on stations where sufficient men have been found to nearly complete establishments, and it is hoped that certain proposals now under consideration by the Adjutant-General's Branch will render it possible shortly to attain efficiency at all stations. 8. Garrison Artillery. Like all other units, the Garrison Artillery companies throughout New Zealand have been embarrassed throughout the last military year by the drafting to the Expeditionary Force of the bulk of the trained personnel, including most of the young non-commissioned officers. The specialists (range-takers, signallers, gun-layers, electricians, and engine-drivers) have also been very considerably depleted. Officers' and non-commissioned officers' classes have been held, and were well attended, and efforts are thus being made to make good the losses sustained by the constant flow of trained men to the Expeditionary Force. Instructional practices were carried out by most companies with satisfactory results.

H.-19

5

9. Engineers. (a.) Field Companies. The work of the Field Engineers in the training-camps has been most satisfactory, particularly in regard to field-work based upon a syllabus of instruction issued from Headquarters. More attention has been paid in the majority of units to drill and individual instruction. (b.) Signal Units. The Signal units have been considerably handicapped by lack of equipment and shortage of instructors. It is hoped that the instructors will be augmented at an early date by those returning from the front. This important branch of the service is better understood than in the past, and an increased interest in this work has been shown by all ranks. (c.) Railway Battalions. The work and training of the Railway Battalions has been carried out satisfactorily during the past year. Like the majority of units, these battalions have suffered from a shortage of experieficed instructors, but notwithstanding this disadvantage good instruction lias been given in various subjects. The training of the Railway Battalions possesses difficulties foreign to other Territorial units, but owing to the keenness of its officers its efficiency can be regarded as satisfactory. (d.) Post and Telegraph Corps. The work of the Post and Telegraph Engineer Corps has been of a satisfactory nature, although this corps has also suffered by so many of its instructors being absent on active service. The importance of the Signal service to a modern army is now better understood,. and all ranks are displaying a creditable enthusiasm. The work of the highly technical units of the Territorial Engineer service proves of infinite value to the Expeditionary Force when its members are posted for active service. 10. Infantry. The standard of efficiency attained by all, ranks during tho past training-year litis been most creditable, and the majority of units can be said to have increased their efficiency and discipline each year since the war commenced. This improvement has been brought about by variousi causes, chief of which is the stimulus given to all ranks by the knowledge that they will ultimately be called upon to serve at the front. In addition the temporary instructional staff appointed at the commencement of the war is now trained, experienced, and efficient, and the majority of recruits joining the Territorial Force are ex-Cadets of four years' progressive training. The above is proof of the wisdom of having retained the Territorial and Cadet training. Besides these contributing causes, much credit is due to certain senior officers of Territorial units who, although prevented by various circumstances from serving with the Expeditionary Force, have placed their energy, spare time, and enthusiasm at the disposal of the Defence Department. The standard of efficiency and discipline attained within the week's training by Infantry units was extraordinarily high, and fully justified the effort and expense entailed. This training proves of the utmost value to those called upon to serve with the Expeditionary Force, and will prove invaluable to those entrusted with the defence of the Dominion in the future. i 11. Musketry. The musketry of the Territorial and Cadet Forces is considerably interfered with by the abnormal conditions of the present time. Tho absence of sufficient ranges and accommodation and rifles is largely responsible for this. Practice on the 25-yards range .cannot be considered approximate to that on the full range, but as the present musketry is of an elementary standard this practice gives satisfactory results. A slight improvement in musketry has been made in three of the four military districts. 12. Rifle Clubs. The Rifle Clubs have assisted in recruiting and other matters, and have been the means of training men who, while ineligible for service at the front, desire to serve their country in an emergency. Unfortunately, the outstanding claims on the Expeditionary and Territorial Forces 'have considerably limited range accommodation and other musketry essentials. It speaks highly for the spirit animating these Rifle Cfubs that, notwithstanding tho disability under which they have laboured owing to the abnormal conditions incident on the war, they still retain their keenness and lose no opportunity of improving their shooting efficiency. 13. Courses of Instruction at Secondary Schools. Courses of military instruction (" barracks ") were held at the following schools by the Director of Military Training during the past training year : Wanganui College, Waitaki High School, Christ's College, Nelson College, Otago High School, St. Patrick's College, and Wellington College. These schools were regarded in all respects as military barracks during the period of instruction, and much valuable work was performed. The objects of holding these barracks were as follows : — (rt.) Many non-commissioned officers and Cadets in these schools are approaching militaryservice age, and will be called upon to servo at the front. For these Cadets the value of such instruction is obvious.

H.—l9

6

(6.) The Territorial and Cadet Forces must look to the secondary schools for a large percentage of their officers injthe future, and a systematized standard of efficiency is universally obtained by such a method of instruction. These schools offer the best medium for the inst.uction of Cadets, and it is of the utmost importance that a systematic and universal system of training be adopted. By means of these barracks the attention of the Cadet is directed to the importance of serving his country as an efficient Territorial officer or non-commissioned officer. The reports of the headmasters concerned testified to the excellent effect these courses have had on Cadets and the immense value the educational authorities place on the object aimed at. It is unquestionable that the influence of these barracks will be far-reaching in the future. Unfortunately, in all Cadet work the results tire not immediate, and the consequent value is largely lost sight of except to those familiar with the necessity for early instruction, and who realize the immense effect for good that will result from this instruction. ■The Director of Military Training, who holds these barracks of military instruction, was one of the original founders of the Officers' Training Corps in England, and for five years specialized in the, training of schoolboys and university youths for commissioned rank. The greatest possible use is therefore being made of his unique experience in this important direction. In connection with these barracks, at a recent conference of secondary sohools the following resolutions were passed with regard to the " invaluable work done in the secondary schools by Lieut.*Colonel Sleeman " : — (1.) That the Minister of Defence be thanked for allowing Lieut.-Colonel Sleeman to hold barracks in the various secondary sohools in New Zealand. (2.) That the conference expresses its warm approval of the benefits conferred by such barracks, and the hope that this branch of Cadet work may be further developed in the future. 14. Royal Military College of Australia. There are at present thirty-six New Zealand Staff Cadets at the Royal Military College of Australia. Eight joined this year. One cadet was discharged in 1917. Those Staff Cadets who joined in 1915 will complete the course in December of this year. The Commandant of the College speaks very highly of the Cadets from New Zealand, and the senior boy in the college is a Ncw-Zealander. 1.5. Examination of Officers for Promotion. (a.) Officers of the Royal New Zealand Artillery and New Zealand Staff Corps. No examinations for officers of the above corps are being held during the war. (b.) Territorial Officers. In August, 191.7, thirty-four officers presented themselves for examination for promotion, of whom nineteen passed. Of the fifteen who did not qualify, ten failed in one subject, two in two two subjects, two in three subjects, and one in four subjects. In February, 1918, thirty-six officers sat, of whom thirteen passed, fourteen failed in one subject, five failed in two subjects, one in three subjects, and three in four subjects. From the Ist May, 1917, to the Ist May, 1918, officers as follows have qualified for promotion by examination : Four for Lieut.-Colonel, sixteen for Major, twenty-three for Captain, and seventyeight for Lieutenant. (c.) Examination for First Appointment to Commissions. In 1917-18 fifty-nine candidates qualified for commissions under the conditions reiating to the above examination. i 6. Cadet Forces. In order to assist civil labour the training of tho Cadet Forces in the country areas has been suspended for the duration of the war, with the exception of a quarterly muster parade. The training of Cadets in town areas has' been continued, except in those cases where undue hardship or essential industry necessitates the exemption of Cadets from training. The; importance of the Cadet Force to the future efficiency and discipline of the Territorial Force cannot be exaggerated. The increased standard of discipline and efficiency in the Territorial Force, so apparent in this year's annual camps, is largely due to the steady influx of trained Cadets who have completed a progressive course of training in the Cadet Force, and which supply will continue without interruption under the present system of training. 17. Value of the Territorial and Cadet Force Training. During the past three years of war the training of the Territorial and Cadet Forces has been continued, notwithstanding many severe handicaps and increased difficulties of varied kinds. Not the least of these has been a lack of understanding oj the vast value of this training on the part of some in the Dominion who, when not engaged in pouring cold water on the work and its need, have endeavoured to suppress this training altogether. All military experts brought in contact with the training of the Dominion's Territorial and Cadet Forces, and who alone are in a position to judge of its value and necessity, arc unanimous regarding

7

H.—l9

the vital need for supporting its continuance not only to directly aid in the present war, but also to ensure a successful Defence Force for the future. Already the Territorial Force has supplied the Expeditionary Force with some thousand officers, and well over its total original strength of thirty thousand other ranks. In addition, it is still at a strength of twenty-nine thousand, some eight thousand of whom annually pass into the Expeditionary Force on arrival at the age of twenty years. Last training-year alone some five hundred officers and fourteen thousand men left the Territorial Force for service at the front. Had Territorial training been suspended in 1914 these officers and other ranks would have been deficient of three years of military training, a training which aims at both defeating the enemy and saving the lives of our own soldiers. The fact that the Territorial Force, in spite of the heavy drain upon its resources, is still practically up to strength is due to the continued good work of the Cadet Force. In this Force Cadets receive progressive training in elementary subjects, and enter the Territorial Force at, eighteen years of age well equipped for the higher training received in that Force. The abolition of this system of training in 1914 would have meant an irredeemable loss to the Dominion of some, forty-five thousand Territorials and over fifty thousand Cadets of an invaluable degree of military efficiency at a time when such training is of priceless worth. 18. Instructional Staff and Officers of Territorial and Cadet Forces. The greatest possible credit is due to the instructional staff and those officers of the Territorial and Cadet Forces, to whose enthusiasm and efficiency tho success attained has been chiefly due. Owing to the severe shortage of experienced instructors many unit officers have performed' the work formerly done by three or four times their number. This has been done at a considerable selfsacrifice, and the greatest credit is due to those who, notwithstanding unique and gigantic difficulties and even hostile criticism, have helped a depleted stall to maintain the strength and efficiency of the Territorial and Cadet Forces. Particular credit must be given to those members of the instructional staff who have returned from service at the front, and who have contributed in the fullest degree towards this efficiency. Tho efficiency and discipline inculcated in the ranks of the Cadet and Territorial Forces are directly contributary to the results obtained in the Expeditionary Force camps, and the splendid name created by the New Zealand. Forces in the field. 19. Harbour Defences. An officer has recently been appointed as Inspector of Coast Defences, and has just completed a first inspection. The guns, lights, communications, and other adjuncts existing in the coast defences are well cared for and ready for use. Owing to the withdrawal of most of the trained personnel of the Royal Now Zealand Artillery it has been difficult to maintain the defences in this state, and credit is due to those concerned who by working long hours have succeeded in doing so. Again, a large number of men from the Garrison Artillery (Territorial Force) have gone to the Expeditionary Force, and their numbers have been made up in larger postings of Cadets. During the year the usual weekly drills have been carried out, and a certain number of wholeday or half-day parades. It is proposed this year to hold training-camps for Garrison Artillery early in the year, so as to render the new postings efficient as early as possible. 20. Train ing-year 1918-19. During the present training-year particular attention is being paid to the instruction of officers and N.C.O.s of the Cadet and Territorial Forces, particularly those of the secondary schools. The importance of providing suitable instruction for the officer and N.C.O. cannot be exaggerated ; upon their present and future efficiency depends that of the Cadet and Territorial Force. It is hoped to hold courses of instruction for the officer and N.C.0., and barracks at many of the large secondary sohools. All training will consist of work which will be valuable to those ultimately joining the Expeditionary Force, and which will help towards tho better efficiency of the Defence Force of the future. SECTION IL—THE DEPARTMENT OF THE ADJUTANT-GENERAL TO THE FORCES. 21. Royal New Zealand Artillery. The establishment of officers for the Royal New Zealand Artillery is fourteen, and in accordance with the latest Army List the strength is twenty, who are distributed as follows : Fifteen on. active service, one seconded for duty as Officer Commanding Wellington Military District; leaving four on regimental duty, these latter being stationed with the R.N.Z.A. detachments throughout New Zealand. The establishment of the regiment, other than officers, is 293, and the strength is 280. At present, in addition to officers mentioned above, 164 non-commissioned officers and men are seconded from the, regiment for service with the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. Those remaining, with few exceptions (who are mostly under orders), are N.C.O.s and men who arc over age, medically unfit, or returned soldiers. The difficulty of carrying on the highly technical duties with a greatly reduced trained personnel has been very great, as some of these duties include the working and care of range-finders, electriclight engines (both steam and internal-combustion), to say nothing of the very intricate mechanism of a number of modern guns.

H.—l9

8

During the year seven N.C.O.s and men have been killed in action ; eleven N.C.O.s and men have been invalided to New Zealand and reabsorbed into the regiment. Of these latter three have been subsequently discharged, two as medically unfit and one at his own request. The Home Service details enlisted to take, the place of the members of the Royal New Zealand Artillery on active service have during the past twelve months been subjected to a weeding-out process so far,as fresh men were available, with the result that a good proportion of those remaining are steady, well-conducted, and reliable men. A number of men who would have made good gunners did not possess the necessary physical qualifications to stand the strain of the work, and were accordingly discharged. During the year it was decided to replace the Territorial guards over the forts and other places of military importance by Home Service men, who were, except in one or two localities (notably Quarantine Island, Port Chalmers) attached to the Royal New Zealand Artillery for command and discipline. The numbers, however, coming forward voluntarily have not been sufficient, and further proposals will shortly be submitted to overcome this difficulty. 22. New Zealand Staff Corps. On the outbreak of war the New Zealand Staff Corps was eighty-four strong. Since that time seventeen Cadets, graduates of the Royal Military College of Australia, Duntroon, have been taken on strength, bringing the total up to 101. No Cadets have joined the Staff Corps during the present year, it having been decided that all should undergo the full course ol: lour years at the Royal Military College of Australia, Duntroon. The following table shows the disposition of the officers of the New Zealand Staff Corps in respect to tin; present war: —■ Embarked on active service .. .. .. .. .. .. 77 Transferred to the Royal New Zealand Artillery and to active service.. .. 10 Retained in New Zealand to fill special appointments .. .. .. 2 Retained in New Zealand being unfit for active service .. .. ..10 Transferred to New Zealand Ordnance Corps .. .. .. .. 1 Retired unfit for further service .. .. .. .. .. . . 1 101 The following shows the present disposition of tho seventy-seven officers who left New Zealand on active service:— Killed in action .. .. .. .. .. .. ..12 Died on service .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 1 Still serving with the Expeditionary Force .. .. .. ..41 Returned to New Zealand on duty .. .. .. .. .... 19 Returned to New Zealand for retirement .. .. . . .. . . 3 Transferred to the Imperial Army .. .. .. .. .. 1 77 Of the officers returned to New Zealand some have become again fit for active service, and these will return to the Expeditionary Force from time to time as suitable officers are found to fill their places in the Dominion. Up to date the officers of the New Zealand Staff Corps have been awarded no fewer than 101 British and foreign decorations, an average of exactly one per member—an extraordinary record, and one of which New Zealand may well be proud. At present there are thirty-five Cadets under instruction, of the Royal Military College of Australia, Duntroon, who will receive commissions in the New Zealand Staff Corps as they qualify. 23. New Zealand Permanent Staff. At the outbreak of war the strength of the New Zealand Permanent Staff was 214. Since, then no permanent appointments have been made to the New Zealand Permanent Staff, till vacancies being filled by temporary instructors who are engaged for the duration of the war. In making the appointments preference, as far as possible, is given to returned soldiers. The distribution of the New Zealand Permanent Staff is as follows :— Left New Zealand on active service .. .. .. .. ..122 Retained on duty in New Zealand .. .. . . .. .. 92 214 The following shows the disposition of the 121 warrant officers and non-commissioned officers of the New Zealand. Permanent Staff who left New Zealand on active service :— Killed in action or died of wounds .. . . .. . . 26 Still serving with the Expeditionary Force . . . . . . 45 Invalided to New Zealand and now disposed of as under: — Reabsorbed in New Zealand Permanent Staff for duty in camps and districts 38 Retired on pension and superannuation . . .. . . . . 4 On sick-leave in New Zealand .. .. . . .. .. 1 Returned to duty with Expeditionary Force .. .. .. .. 8 122

9

H.—l9

The disposal of the ninety-two warrant officers and non-commissioned officers of the New Zealand Permanent Staff who have, been retained on duty in New Zealand is as follows : Employed at General Headquarters . . .. .. .. .. 4 Employed in districts, groups, and areas .. .. .. .. .. 51 Employed in Expeditionary Force training-camps .. .. .. .. 37 92 The status of those who have been retained in New Zealand is as under :— Unfit for active service . . .. .. .. .. .. 25 Fit for active service but Second Division (not yet called up) .. 64 Fit and under orders to embark .. .. . . .. .. .. 3 92 Eight warrant officers and Staff sergeants-major have been granted honorary commissioned rank, and thirty-six have been granted temporary commissioned rank (fifteen in New Zealand and twentyone in the New Zealand Expeditionary Force). 24. New Zealand Medical Services. There have been, sufficient Medical Officers for duty in the Expeditionary Force camps, and sufficient have come forward to meet the demands required for the Expeditionary Forces overseas and Recruiting Medical Boards. As regards the Territorial Camps, the same difficulty has been experienced as last year in finding sufficient whole-time Medical Officers for these camps, but arrangements were made with the local Sanitary Inspectors to co-operate with the Defence Department as regards the sanitary condition of the various camps and surroundings. Awapuni Camp continues to train the New Zealand Medical Corps reinforcements and Territorial Medical units, with the result that a high standard of efficiency is maintained. The camp has lately been supplied with the field water-testing apparatus ; the latest stretcher drill has also been introduced. The Expeditionary Force camps are equipped with up-to-date hospitals for general and infectious diseases. The inhaling-room established in camps for the prevention of ccrebro-spinal meningitis, influenza, and sore throats has proved very satisfactory, the result being that there has been less sickness in the camps last year than in any previous year. Segregation camps have been established at Tauherenikau for recruits coming into camp during tho winter months, to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Swabbing of throats of all men coming into camp and before embarkation is being carried out with a view to detecting cerebro-spinal meningitis carriers, with tho result that there is practically no infection. The health of the troops has been very satisfactory. Medical Stores. Tho supplies of drugs and equipment, &c, for use in the various hospitals have been maintained throughout the year with little difficulty, taking into consideration the shortage of supplies on the market. The operations of the store have been most satisfactory, and an appreciable reduction in expenditure, as shown hereunder, has been effected. The saving is primarily due to having good stocks on hand at the termination of the last period, and also to obtaining supplies from the United Kingdom and not being wholly dependent upon the local market. Period 1916-17:— , , , , f 8. d. i c. d. Stock on hand .. .. .. .. .. .. 500 0 0 Purchases of drugs, &c, during period .. .. .. 18,764 0 0 Drugs and equipment issued. . .. .. .. 16,764 0 0 Stocks on hand at end of period . . .. .. 2,500 0 0 £19,264 0 0 £19,264 0 0 Working-expenses for period (pay, clothing, &c), £1,200. Period 1917-18:— ~ , , , t s. a. t s. d. Stock on hand .. .. .. .. .. .. 2,500 0 0 Purchases of drugs,.&c, during period .. .. .. 10,184 11 3 Drugs and equipment issued. . .. .. .. 7,576 3 0 Stocks on hand at end of period . . .. .. 5,108 8 3 £12,684 11 3 £12,684 11 3 Working-expenses for period (pay, clothing, &c), £1,500.

2—H. 19

H.—l9

10

By comparing the figures for the periods under review it will be seen that expenditure has been reduced by £8,579 Bs. 9d., and that stock on hand at the termination of period ending 1917-18 is £5,108 Bs. 3d. Therefore it will be seen that a direct saving of £13,687 17s. has been effected during the past year, notwithstanding the increased prices of supplies. Against this saving, working-expenses have increased £300, such increase being caused through promotions and additional staff. In addition, a saving of £120 13s. lid. has been effected by the manufacture of ointments, &c, as shown in attached schedule. During the period under review a system was inaugurated whereby all prescriptions for military patients in Wellington have been dispensed. The patients include returned soldiers under treatment, soldiers on sick-leave from the respective camps, and soldh rs stationed in Wellington. This method of di pensing has proved most satisfactory, and during the period 1917-18 2,822 prescriptions have been dispensed, with an approximate saving of £423 6s. A garrison dispensary was established in Auckland on the Ist January, and is working most satisfactorily. The estimated monthly saving in this direction is £25. Garrison dispensaries were also established at Christchurch and Dunedin during last month, and it is considered that a further saving will be effected. The system of obtaining our supplies through the Army Contractor in England is not only economical, but it has enabled us to meet all the requirements of the various hospitals, transports, &c. At present there are sufficient stocks on hand to meet our requirements until the end of the year 1918-19, and requisitions have been submitted for next year's supply, delivery being promised by December next. List of Goods manufactured in the Medical Stores, Year ending 31st March, 1918. (Showing the comparison in cost of manufacture between the said stores and local wholesale houses.) . .; , Store Price. Local Price. Article. „ , „ , £ s. d. £ s. d. 41 lb. Ung. gallae co. .. .. . . 16 19 3 17 8 6 167 lb. Ung. acid boric . . .. .. 10 3 2 14 12 3 1,3311b. Ung. sulphuris .. .. .. .. 830 13 70 18 lb. Ung. antiseptic .. .. .. .. 450 610 0 241b. Ung. zinci oxid. .. .. .. 504 811 0 28 lb. Sps. chloroform .". .. .. .. 440 46 10 638 lb. Tinct. iodi. .. .. .. 21 3 9 103 13 6 531 lb. Tinct. quin. ammon. .. .. .. 683 10 00 12 doz. Suppos. acid tannic .. .. .. 066 0 18 0 12 doz. Suppos. plumbi co. .. .. . . 0 6 6 018 0 24 doz. Suppos. morph. .. .. .. .. 0 13 0 1 16 0 4 lb. Syr. tolut. .. .. .. .. 014 040 701b. Lin. saponis .. .. .. .. 111 7 4 7 6 5 lb. Glycer. acid tannic .. .. .. 014 6 100 5 lb. Ung. hyd. ammon. .. .. .. 063 015 0 1 lb. Ung. acid chrysophanic .. .. .. 029 036 1 lb. Ung. capsici .. .. .. .. 020 030 1 lb. Ung. iodi. .. ~ .. .. 0 2 6 0 3 6 1J lb. Glycerine bellandon .. 074 0 15 0 2 lb. Collodion salicylas .. .. .. 010 0 015 0 12| doz. Triangular bandages .. .. .. 1119 310 7 6 lb. Emulsio 01. morrhuae .. .. .. 010 0 012 0 4 gal. Syr. simp. .. .. .. .. 0 7 6 016 10 500 ' Bougies, protargol .. .. .. 087 220 1 lb. Pigment, Mandl. .. .. .. 019 036 24 W.Q. stock mists. .. .. 15 13 6 22 13 6 2 gal. Lin. A, B, C .. .. .. .. 2 0 6 212 6 102 4 7 222 18 6 102 4 7 Amount saved .. .. .. .. £120 13 11 25. Officers' Training Corps. Otago University. This unit was established in August, 1916, on the advice of the Director-General of Medical Services, Surgeon-General R. S. F. Henderson, C.8., M.8., K.H.P., A.M.S., and the Director of Military Training, Lieut.-Colonel J. L. Sleeman, 1.G.5., whose experience as a founder of the Officers' Training Corps in England proved of great value. The corps is commanded by Major J. Malcolm, and since its formation has performed very valuable work. The corps was inspected during the past year by His Excellency the Governor-General, the Commandant of the Forces, the Director-General of Medical Services, and the Director of Military Training. Thirty-six members of the corps have gained certificate "A" and forty-three certificates "A" and " B," which qualified these candidates for commissioned rank and for certain other advantages to the holders.

11

H.—l9

Six of the officers of the contingent were formerly Cadets in its ranks while seven officers and fifty-six other ranks have passed into the Expeditionary Force. This unit has made steady progress since formation, and has been considerably helped by the interest shown by the University authorities and the enthusiasm of its members. 26. Strength of the Forces. The strength of the New Zealand Defence Forces on the 31st March, 1918, was as under : — Territorial Force .. .. .. .. .. .. ..22,933 Senior Cadets .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 30,668 Rifle Clubs .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 7,252 Total .. .. .. .. .. .. 60,853 As was the case last year, all members of the General Training Section have been posted to the Territorial Force. The above figures do not include, members of the Territorial Force who are absent on service with the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. 27. Legislation. Since my last report the following Acts affecting the New Zealand Forces were passed into law : — (1.) The Military Service Amendment Act, 1917, modifying the provisions of the Military Service Act, 1916, relating to the selection of men for service with the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. (2.) The War Pensions Amendment Act, 1917, amending the War Pensions' Act, 191.5, chiefly in the direction of increasing tho scale of pensions. (3.) The War Legislation Act, 1917, making, inter alia, provisions for— (a.) The relief of soldiers from burdensome contracts ; (b.) War bursaries for educational purposes to children of deceased or discharged soldiers of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force ; and (c.) Validating War Regulations. 28. Prosecutions. Appendix A is a return of prosecutions laid under the Defence Act, 1909, and its amendments, from the Ist May, 1917, to the 30th April, 1918. During the above period the percentage of convictions to prosecutions was as follows : Territorials, 92-31 ; Senior Cadets, 91-39. This return shows a decrease in the number prosecuted for breaches of the Defence Act for the corresponding period of the previous year to the extent of 555 Territorials and 147 Senior Cadets. 29. Posting. Prior to 1916 youths on becoming of age for service with the Territorial Force were posted to this Force in annual quotas in such manner as to ultimately produce a Territorial Force containing seven classes of men of approximately equal strength, of ages 18-19, 19-20, 20-21, 21-22, 22-23, 23-24, 24-25, in order that the inward draft each year would approximately correspond to the number passing to the Reserve in the same year. All men in excess of these annual quotas were posted to the General Training Section. As a result of the operation of the Military Service Act, however, fit men of the Territorial Force are, on attaining the age of twenty years, drafted to the Expeditionary Force on being drawn in the ballot or volunteering for that Force. This has necessitated a modification of the original scheme for posting annual quotas, and the practice adopted at the 1916-17 posting— i.e., of posting all available trainees to units of the Territorial Foree —was continued for the year 1917-18. As indicated in the last annual report, the General Training Section has now been absorbed into units of the Territorial Force for the year 1917-18. Postings of youths to the Senior Cadets and Territorial Force were carried out in June, 1917, prime consideration being given to Coast Defence units. All Senior Cadets who were eligible were posted to the Territorial Force on their passing the required test The following table shows the numbers posted in each district: —

Table of Postings, 1917-18.

District. To Senior Cadets. To Territorial Force. Totals. Auckland Canterbury Otago Wellington 2,282 2,855 1,153 2,749 2,140 1,180 1,357 2,539 t 4,422 4,035 2,510 5,288 Totals 9,039 7,216 16,255

£.-19

12

30. Registrations. The following table shows, in detail, the total number of registrations for military training under the Defence Act effected since the introduction of the scheme of universal military training, up to 31st March, 1918 :—

From the Ist May, 1917, to the 31st March, 1918, the total number of registrations recorded throughout the Dominion was 10,716. t i. 31. Regulations and Publications. Since the date of my last annual report, regulations as under have been gazetted : — («.) Regulations for the equipment of the New Zealand Military Forces. (b.) Regulations for the New Zealand Army Pay Department and the, New Zealand Pay Corps. (c.) Regulations for the New Zealand Army Ordnance Department and the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps. (d.) Under the Military Service Act, 1916 : Regulations as to the cessation of voluntary enlistment of members of the First Division of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force Reserve ; regulations re Home Service Branch, N.Z.E.F. ; amendments to regulations as to financial assistance for soldiers of the N.Z.E.F. ; Proclamation extending provisions of the Military Service Act, with certain modifications, to Natives, and the constitution of Native recruiting districts ; regulations requiring Reservists of the Second Division to furnish information to the Government Statistician as to their children, and classifying the Second Division of the N.Z E.F. Reserve ; amended regulations for the Home Service Branch of the N.Z.E.F., providing for the compulsory employment on home service of soldiers who, being liable for service under the Military Service Act, have committed an offence under that Act or the Army Act, and who may be subsequently transferred from the Foreign Service Branch to the Home Service Branch of the N.Z.E.F. ; regulations ordering the abolition of recruiting districts consequent upon it being decided to select men (by ballot) from a single register for the whole of New Zealand, instead of from district registers as previously ; amended regulations for the medical examination of recruits for the N.Z.E.F. ; amended regulations as to the, attestation of recruits, and prescribing new forms of attestation ; Proclamation proclaiming tho enrolment of all classes of the Second Division of the Reserve ; regulations as to registers of Reservists, and their selection by ballot; Proclamation directing enrolment of First, Division of Native Expeditionary Force Reserve ; regulations as to registers pf Native Reservists and their selection by ballot. (c.) Under the New Zealand Expeditionary Force Act, 1915 : Regulations as to the pay of soldiers discharged as medically unfit from the, training-camps of the Expeditionary Force. /.) Under the Defence Act, 1909, and its amendments : Amended regulations re military honours and military funerals ; Order in Council withdrawing exempt.on from training of persons residing in certain areas ; amendment to Financial Instructions and Allowance Regulations, increasing the pay of bombardiers in the R.N.Z.A. ; regulations for the promotion of officers of the Motor Boat Section, N.Z. Forces Motor Service Corps ; regulations as to imprisonment and detention. (g.) Under the War Regulations Act, 1914, and its amendments : War Regulations making it an offence under the War Regulations Act to obstruct or interfere with the Military Police in the execution of their duty ; War Regulations providing for the protection of soldiers' property. The following official publications have been issued : — (a.) New Zealand Army List for September, 1917. (A further edition of this list revised up to May, 1918, has since been issued.) (b.) General Orders (monthly). (c.) Returned Soldiers' Handbook (two revised editions). (d.) Special General Orders re — (i.) Pay and allowances, (ii.) Instructions relating to pay duties, (iii.) Employments of temporary instructors, (iv.) Standing Orders for transports. ' (v.) Instructions relative to the internment and treatment of enemy subjects. (vi a ) Visits to detention barracks in military training-camps, and prisoners therein.

District. Territorials. Senior Cadets. Totals. Auckland Canterbury Otago Wellington 10,867 7,693 6,859 10,249 22,769 23,090 15,996 27,479 33,636 30,783 22,855 37,728 Totals 35,668 89,334 125,002

13

H.—l9

32. Chaplains. During the past year the, Chaplains List has been purged with a view to the retirement, &c, of those Chaplains whose age exceeded that laid down for retirement, or who were non-effective. This work has not yet been completed. New appointments to the Chaplains List are being strictly limited to clergymen under the age of forty-five years. The majority of the Chaplains who attended the annual carried^ k out their duties conscientiously and well. Others, again, appeared lacking inexperience and did not make the best of their opportunities of getting into touch with the men by organizing entertainments, &c, in camp. Up to the present 125 Chaplains have been despatched on service with the New Zealand Expeditionary Force, and out of that number eighty-nine are still serving abroad. Four Chaplains have been killed in action, and ten havo boon decorated by His Majesty the King for distinguished and meritorious service. The supply of suitable Chaplains for service with our troops overseas, and in the training-camps in New Zealand, has been well maintained, and the Churches have rendered valuable assistance in the selection of clergymen for service abroad. 33. New Zealand Dental Services. The Dental Corps is continuing to render valuable service in providing dental treatment for soldiers, the whole of which is now being done in camps with excellent results, all work now being standarized and under direct supervision. Tho new arrangement has greatly added to the amount of work to be done in camps, but the staff, with slight addition to its numbers, is successfully coping with the extra amount of work presenting. A Dental Officer and mechanic continue to be attached to all hospital ships, and a Dental Officer to transports. Eighteen officers have been sent on duty with tho New Zealand Expeditionary Force, and eight have returned, two of whom have resumed private practice. There are now thirty-three officers and sixty-three non-commissioned officers and men of the Dental Service in the New Zealand Expeditionary Force ; of these officers eighteen are in England, ten in France, four in Egypt, and one in Samoa. The results accruing from the visit abroad of the Director of Dental Services have more than justified the step taken. 34. Base Records. The work in this branch continues to increase as each Reinforcement embarks, and it is now responsible for the custody and consequent work thereon of 90,000 files for members of the Now Zealand Expeditionary Force who have proceeded overseas, in addition to 11,500 subject files referring to the numerous details dealt with by this branch. Increased work has necessitated increased staff, with the necessity forecasted in last year's report of increased accommodation. Further experience has enabled the various war branches of the Defence Department, although located in several different buildings, to reduce overlap and duplication of duties, which has been of considerable benefit to Base Records. This branch is now responsible only for the custody of the files of those soldiers who have proceeded overseas, and the files of those men whose actual military service terminates before embarkation for foreign service aro in tho custody of the Director of Recruiting. Any inquiries about a soldier who has not embarked are referred to tho Director of Recruiting, whilst this branch is responsible for all inquiries and action outside camps in New Zealand with reference to any soldier who has left this country or who returns invalided or on leave to New Zealand. The staff now consists of 68 military and 162 civil members, the latter of whom comprise 137 female clerks and 19 Civil Service cadets, and the pay-roll averages £130 10s. per head per annum. Some idea of the increased work may be obtained from the fact that the number of letters now received daily averages over one thousand, an increase of four hundred since 1916, and over eight thousand documents per day are dealt with by the branch. The latest addition to the building includes provision for suitable offices for the Director of Military Hospitals and his staff, and when the latter occupy their new offices this branch will undertake the clerical work and keep the records required on account of the transfer from the Public Health Department to the Defence Department of the care and custody of all sick and wounded soldiers and discharged soldiers. Very long hours have been worked when heavy casualty lists are received, but the system in force enables all lists to be dealt with expeditiously, and on no occasion have any cases remained undealt-with overnight. The increased numbers of returning soldiers are being satisfactorily handled, and both soldiers and their relatives appear to appreciate the system in force which permits of demobilization from the ship's side, instead of returned men who do not require in-patient treatment having to report in hospital after a few days' leave in order to obtain their discharge, as is the custom in Australia. The honorary staff have continued for a third year to carry on their excellent work every morning and evening (Saturdays excepted), and without this assistance during the frequent extra busy periods the branch could not successfully be carried'on. 35. Recruiting. The work of recruiting for the New Zealand Expeditionary Forces has progressed satisfactorily and without friction. As the result of experience gained, considerable changes of an administrative nature have been made with a view to the simplification of the work of medical examination, appeal, concentration, and despatch of men to Expeditionary Force camps, with a consequent improvement in the carrying-out of the administration of the Military Service Act.

H.—l9

14

Up to date of this report the whole of the First Division of the Reserve, and Classes A and B of the Second Division, have been exhausted either by voluntary enlistments or by the operation of the ballot, and a commencement has been made with the calling-up by ballot of Class C of the Second Division. The gross numbers drawn in tho later ballots have not suffered to the same extent as in earlier ballots by the striking-off of men who had previously enlisted or of men under orders to proceed to camp as volunteers, caused by the fact that the machinery for the notification to the Government Statistician of the names of volunteers has been brought to a greater degree of efficiency than in the first months of the operation of the Military Service Act; also by the fact that there has been a decrease in the number of volunteers offering for service. In addition, the men of military ago in the Dominion have now better realized their obligations under the Military Service Act, and the Government Statistician has necessarily been enabled to effect a more accurate classification of Reservists, through the latter supplying him with more detailed information as to children, &c, than they had done at first. Towards the end of 1917 the Government decided that the strength of Reinforcements drafts could be safely reduced, and, as recruiting disclosed a position of great strength, a temporary halt in the calling-up of Second Division men was called. Later events, however, necessitated an alteration of policy and a consequent acceleration of the action of tho ballot. The temporary halt resulted in a reduction in the number of District Medical Boards and Military Service Boards operating, but the increased numbers called up later necessitated the ro-establishmcnt of some of tho disbanded District Medical Boards. In the early portion of 1917 it was decided to comb out First Division men who had been classed " C 2 " by the District Medical Boards, and for this purpose the papers of all such men were scrutinized by a special Re-examination Medical Board, and those considered to be worth a re-examination were ordered up for that purpose. In connection with this matter it, was approved that a special trainingcamp should be established for the purpose of imparting graduated training to those men who were slightly better than those classed "C 2 " but were not up to the "A " standard. Such men were classed " Cl," and were in due course sent into the Cl Camp. This course has been productive of a considerable increase to the number of fit "A " men sent into Expeditionary Force camps. Up to the date of the last return the C 2 Board had re-examined 5,340 men. Some idea of the work done in this branch and tho results of the ballot may be obtained from tho following, taken from the latest recruiting return : — Since the date of the first ballot (23rd November, 1916) 63,641 First Division men were drawn in the first ten ballots. Of these 3,483 men have not yet been disposed of finally, and of 3,483 so remaining 1,957 are lost. These " lost" men comprise, in the groat majority of cases, men who are legitimately out of New Zealand on passport or permit issued before the ballots were drawn. The men under disposal comprise 1,526, of whom 728 are under orders for camp, 42 arc aliens whose cases are under consideration, 64 are temporarily unfit, and 466 arc appellants whoso appeals are not yet finally disposed of. The balance comprise " lost" men whose cases are under investigation by the Director of Personal Services. Considering the First Division ballots as a whole in comparison with Class A of the Second Division as a whole, the following features are of interest: — (rt.) Of 76,398 First Division men drawn, the wastage (men who had to be struck off the list as alien, dead, left Now Zealand permanently, &c.) was 6,532, or 8-5 per cent, of the whole. The wastage in Class A under the same headings was 1,458 men out of 13,277, or 10-9 per cent, of their total. (6.) Of the 76,398 First Division men drawn, less " lost " men, men struck off, and men not yet medically examined (a total of 9,724), 66,674 were medically examined. Of these 38,726 were classed " C 2," or 57-9 per cent, of the total examined. The percentage of C 2 men to the total Class A Second Division men examined works out at 67-8 per cent, on the same basis (1,926 lost, &c, out of 11,351 examined, and 7,697 classed " C 2 "). (c.) If to the foregoing wo add the result to date of the C 2 Re-examination Board, the percentage of C 2 men finally found in tho First Division is decreased. Of the 38,626 men in the First Division classed " C 2," 3,031 were found fit on re-examination, leaving 35,595 C 2 men out of 66,674 examined, or 53-3 per cent., classed " 02." (d.) If we examine the actual production of men for camp compared with the total examined the position is as follows : — First Division — Medically examined .. .. .. .. .. 66,674 Gone to camp .. .. .. .. .. 19,788 (C 2 reclassed) .. .. .. ..1,407 Under orders for camp (includes result of C 2 re-examination) 2,392 Production .. .. .. .. .. 23,587 or 35-37 per cent. Class A, Second Division — Medically examined .. .. .. .. .. 11,351 Gone to camp .. .. .. .. .. 50 Under orders for camp .. .. .. .. 2,133 Production .. .. .. .. .. 2,183 or 19-25 per cent.

15

H.—l9

The percentage in both cases will be increased according as appeals on hand are dismissed, lost men are found, &c, the increase being greater in the case of Class A men, as there are a greater number of " live " cases to be dealt with. As, however, only 60 per cent, of those C2 men re-examined by the C2 Board and sent to the CI Camp eventually reach tho Expeditionary Force camps, the true percentage of production of fit men is less than 35-37 per cent, in tho First Division. A better calculation is the following : — First Division — Medically examined .. .. .. .. .. .. 66,674 Gone to camp as fit men .. .. .. .. .. 19,788 Fit men under orders .. .. .. .. .. .. 1,965 21,753 Add 60 per cent, of men sent into CI Camp .. .. .. 1,100 22,853 which works out at 34-27 per cent, of the total examined. This does not give us a true basis of calculation. In fixing the percentage likely to be produced all wastage must be taken into consideration. Doing so, we find the percentage of production is as follows :— First Division, Class A — Total called up .. .. .. .. .. 13,277 Produced or under orders .. .. .. .. ' 2,183, or 16-4 per cent. An all-round percentage of 23-15 may be accepted for all classes. Voluntary recruiting has necessarily not been as great as before the application of the Military Service Act. Nevertheless, the response made to appeals for volunteers has been gratifying. Including Maoris, Rarotongans, other islanders, and New Zealand volunteers, approximately 9,500 have been medically examined since the 1st June, 1917, to date. Of these, over 6,000 have been sent to camp. Men called up under sections 34 and 35 of the Military Service Act during the past year have numbered 149 and 400 respectively (including men called up during the previous year but medically examined during the current year). Of these, 65 and 300 (approximately) respectively have been sent to camp. The balance are men whose cases are still under consideration. Fifty-one religious objectors were dealt with during the year. Regulations were gazetted providing for the employment of such men on agricultural work under the Agricultural Department, provided the men's appeals were allowed by a Military Service Board and the men signed the necessary undertaking. Of the fifty-one cases dealt with, twenty-five men have been sent to the Central Development Farm at Levin ; twenty-three will be sent in as soon as accommodation arrangements have been completed ; three cases are still under consideration. 36. Discipline* The discipline of the Territorial Forces has been satisfactory during the past year, and shows considerable improvement. There has been a further reduction in the number of those prosecuted for offences under the Defence Act as compared with the period 1st May, 1916, to 30th April, 1917. The general discipline of the Cadets has also been satisfactory, and shows considerable improvement. There has been a decrease in tho number of prosecutions under the Defence Act as compared with the figures submitted for the period 1st May, 1916, to 30th April, 1917, except as regards prosecutions for failure to register, which show a slight increase on the figures for the period above mentioned. There has been a decided improvement in the general behaviour of troops when on leave from the Expeditionary Force camps, and this, no doubt, is due to the presence and growing efficiency of the Military Police. Returned soldiers (hospital and convalescent patients) have caused some trouble owing to inability to control the supply of liquor to these men, but legislation by means of War Regulations is being considered, and when gazetted will no doubt make a material, difference as regards these offences and assist in the general control of these men. 37. Detention. Subsequent to failure to pay fines inflicted by Magistrates for breaches of the Defence Act, fourteen Territorials and four Senior Cadets were placed in military detention during the period 1st May, 1917, to 30th April, 1918. Military detention barracks have been established at Wanganui, the Defence Department taking over for the period of the war the civil prison situated in this town. These detention barracks are only for offenders of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. 38. District and Group Organization. The policy, as indicated in last year's report, of replacing fit members of District Staffs by returned officers and other ranks has been continued, and District and Group Staffs are now to a very great extent composed of returned soldiers who have been invalided from the Expeditionary Force as unfit for further active service.

He—l 9

16

39. Status of Territorial Officers for whom no Vacancies are available for Commissioned Appointment to the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. This question has been a subject of considerable interest, and has been variously commented upon since the middle of 1917, at which time the Department was faced with a real difficulty in disposing of a number of Territorial officers who, owing to the return of officers from the front for duty with Reinforcements on the outgoing voyage, the reduction in the strength of Reinforcements which then took place, and for various other causes, were found to be surplus to the requirements for officers for the Expeditionary Force. The question, which was fully ventilated before the Royal Commission on Defence Expenditure, is considered to be of such importance as to warrant the publication herein of extracts from the evidence of the General Officer Commanding and the comments of the Commission. " We quote in full the question we put to the General Officer Commanding on this matter, and his answer, which we consider fairly presents tho position :— " Question : It is reported that about the middle of 1917 some sixty to seventy officers, mainly Territorials, wero taken into camp for whom commissions in tho Expeditionary Force could not be found. If this statement is correct, please explain— (a) How this state of affairs arose. (.) Was employment found for these officers, and on what duty ; or (c) were they discharged or granted leave ? If the latter, was it with or without pay 1 (d) How much this error, if committed, cost ? (c) What is the present position of tho matter ? " Answer : The question is merely one of supply and demand. Wo have available a number of Territorial officers who lack experience in tho present war, for whom vacancies cannot be found in Reinforcement drafts. Tho number of officers involved is really forty-two, which represents tho balance of two classes drawn from sixty-throe officers who wero mobilized in July and August, 1917, for a special course of training. As a result of this course, twenty candidates wero selected from among those who gained the highest marks, tho remainder being given leave, as they objected to the conditions under which they proceeded to camp —viz., that if found unsuitable, or if no vacancies existed for their appointment to tho Expeditionary Force with commissioned rank, they should bo reverted temporarily for service in tho Expeditionary Force as N.C.O.s. " The question is a matter of policy and is now under consideration. The officers were in the first place granted leave without pay, but as a solution of the problem could not, bo found and the officers concerned, were without moans, pay was issued from time to time up to 9th March, 1918. No employment was found for these officers, as it was impossible to forsee when this question would be sottlod, and leave was only granted for short periods. They were not sent back to camp, for tho reason that their presence there created discontent, which was apt to depreciate the value of their own and their comrades' training. Their pay whilst on leave amounted to £2,966. " It is not admitted that an error was committed, as the situation was forced on by tho provisions of tho Military Sorvice Act, which is no respecter of persons in its insistence that every fit man must proceed abroad when his turn comes. The Military Sorvice Act had the effect of throwing a surplus of inexperienced officers on our hands, and tho legal difficulties involved in reconciling tho provisions of the Military Sorvice Aot with tho necessity for respecting the King's Commission, if possible, caused unavoidable delay regarding these officers' disposal. " This problem exists in other parts of the Empire, as applications are being received asking for employment here, the applicants stating they aro surplus in their own dominions. " One cannot but sympathize with the portion of these officers who volunteered for active service earlier in the war but who were retained on duty in Now Zealand, and it is hard on them to be now asked to accept less than commissioned rank. We understand others had not previously offered their services, and with them we have no sympathy. " But we feel that all those gentlemen will, on reflection, sink their personal feelings, as so many others in New Zealand have done, and cheerfully fight in whatever sphere it may please their country to allot them. Their position is invidious now, seeing that they were glad to wear uniform in peacetime ; and we fear that in the years to come no explanation will serve if they refuse to go, however well-founded their contention may at present seem. " It may assist them if they admit what is due to gallant fellows who joined the ranks years ago, not as sergeants but as privates, and who fought and suffered all sorts of dangers and privations to attain to commissioned rank, and realize what the feelings of these fellows would be to see brand-new officers coming in over their heads four years after tho war had begun I " Since the publication of the Commission's report, judgment has been given in the case Morris v. Attorney-General, proceedings which were instituted on behalf of the officers concerned to test the legality of the Department's attitude. This decision was given on the Bth August, 1918, and the Court, consisting of three Judges, unanimously held that Territorial officers had, as such, no special rights or privileges in the Expeditionary Force, that they were not entitled to retain the status of officers in that Force whether they had entered it as voluntary or as compulsory recruits, and that they were bound to serve as privates or non-commissioned officers unless the Governor-General, in the exercise of his discretion, chose to gazette them as officers of the Expeditionary Force. This decision accorded with the advice received from the Solicitor-General upon which the Defence Department had acted. It is a matter for regret that the Department was unable to find places for all Territorial officers in the Expeditionary Force with commissioned rank. It is feared that the attitude of many Territorial officers concerned has been miscontrucd by the, public. These officers were referred to in certain sections of the Press as " shirkers," and it is the earnest desire of the Department that any such impression should be, dispelled. It should be remembered that the Department has always considered it undesirable that a Territorial officer should serve in the ranks of the Expeditionary Force if he is equal to tho standard of efficiency required of an officer in this war, or if he can reasonably be raised to such a standard of efficiency. For this reason the Department deliberately discouraged the enlistment of Territorial officers in the ranks of the Expeditionary Force, and applications to proceed abroad, which were received from many Territorial officers concerned, were held over in the hope that commissioned vacancies would be later available. It follows that their failure to go forward earlier was not necessarily a fault of their own. It is emphasized that the question was principally one of supply and demand, and that, had vacancies been available, a large number of the Territorial officers deferred would have been appointed direct to the Expeditionary Force in consequence of their undoubted qualifications,

17

H.—l9

Since the decision above referred to was given the requirements for officers became such that the Department, in consonance with the desire that had always existed, was enabled to appoint the majority of these Territorial officers, who previously constituted a surplus, to commissioned rank in the Expeditionary Force. The present policy is to take all Territorial officers into camp in a training-class as noncommissioned officers with a view to selecting the best qualified for commissions in the Expeditionary Force. This has been found by experience to be the best course, as a surplus has always to be considered, and it is found that less hardship is imposed if Territorial officers are first accepted in comparatively junior ranks with opportunities of advancement than if posted to camp with commissioned ranks with the possibility of subsequent reversion should they be found unequal to the standard of efficiency demanded, or surplus to the requirements for officers at the time. The commissions of Territorial officers serving as non-commissioned officers or privates with the Expeditionary Force are respected, and their seniority in the Territorial Force goes on in the usual manner. On their release from the Expeditionary Force they return to the Territorial Force as officers irrespective of the fact that they may or may not have attained commissioned rank in the field, but if their Expeditionary Force service shows that they are unsuited to hold the King's commission, their commissions in the Territorial Force will be liable to cancellation. On embarkation, any Territorial officer who has not succeeded in obtaining a commissioned appointment to the Expeditionary Force will have his case brought to the notice of the Expeditionary Force authorities, who will be asked to keep him under observation and to report on his qualifications from time to time. SECTION lII.—BRANCH OF THE QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL TO THE FORCES. 40. Drill-halls, Orderly-rooms, Stores, and Offices. Owing to the curtailment of Territorial training in country areas a considerable reduction has been made in the number of halls, orderly-rooms, &c, rented for the purposes of the general training scheme. District commands carefully reviewed their accommodation requirements and reduced the same to a minimum, thus pursuing the present policy of restricting expenditure with due regard to the necessity of maintaining the Territorial Force and Senior Cadets on a satisfactory basis. Similarly, only essential work has been undertaken in respect to drill-halls and other buildings belonging to the Department, being mainly confined to repairs necessary to prevent deterioration. The' increase in staff necessitated by the continuation of the war, the increasing volume of work, and tho growing number of troops under the control of the Department have brought insistent demands for larger facilities and office accommodation particularly at the headquarters of districts and in Wellington. All essential requirements have been met, but the matter of meeting accommodation requirements becomes increasingly difficult. 41. Defence Vessels. The Department possesses six vessels. The s.s. " Janie Seddon " is constantly employed in Wellington Harbour in the transport of supplies, &c, to the Somes Island internment camp and the forts, and also on other Defence services, tendering transports, __o. The s.s. " Lady Roberts " is fully employed in Auckland Harbour on similar services. This steamer has been overhauled during the year, and should be able to efficiently meet all demands. The gift launch " lawai " is also employed at Auckland, and is a good auxiliary in the event of an emergency, being frequently found useful, although too light to be reliable in very rough weather. The launch " L " at Lyttelton meets Defence requirements at that port for a time, but the difficulty of having engine repairs effected has militated against her successful employment of late. These repairs have been arranged, and when completed the launch will again be able, to carry out all necessary work, except in very heavy weather. At Port Chalmers the launches " W " and " A " are available for the harbour-defence work, and meet all requirements. 42. Rail, Steamer (Coastal), and Coach Transports. No difficulty has been experienced in meeting all demands at ordinary periods for the concentration of Reinforcement drafts, despatching returned invalided troops to their homes, and in the transport of troops from and to camp in connection with their final leave. At holiday-times, especially Christmas to New Year, and Easter time, with so many of the genera] public travelling, the position is often difficult. Notwithstanding the curtailed facilities necessitated by reduced railway staffs, &c, the manner in which the difficulties have been overcome by the railway and steamship authorities is much appreciated. The failure of men to return by trains and steamers on allotted dates increases the difficulties, and it is due to the courtesy and consideration of the railway and steamship officials that the consequent dislocation of traffic arrangements is successfully met and dealt with. The concessions granted by steamship companies and the majority of coach-proprietors throughout the Dominion in connection with the conveyance of troops on final leave have been continued, thus largely reducing the cost of transport. In many instances coach-proprietors carry the men free of charge. 43. Rifle Ranges. The existing rifle ranges have been maintained so as to meet the requirements of the present training scheme.

3—Hi 19.

H.—l9

18

Facilities for rifle practice arc unquestionably of considerable importance, but as the future training policy is necessarily at present indefinite, the extension of the number of range-sites has remained in abeyance during the year, the musketry practice of Territorial units being largely carried out at the annual training-camps. Useful work is in the meantime being done on miniature-rifle ranges, several of which have been constructed during the year. 44. Small-arms Ammunition. The Colonial Ammunition Company has more than fulfilled the contract regarding the supply of Mark VI small-arms ammunition for the Expeditionary Force, Territorials, and Senior Cadets, and during the year have installed machinery for the manufacture of Mark VTI small-arms ammunition. On account of the initial difficulties which are invariably associated with new processes, some delay has been experienced with regard to deliveries, chiefly owing to war conditions, which have made it difficult for contractors to obtain the proper material to enable them to produce Mark VII smallarms ammunition that will conform in every respect to the specification laid down and carefully guarded by the Proof Officer. This difficulty is chiefly due to the inability of the contractors to obtain certain material. Cordite has been coming to hand in sufficient quantities to meet all the requirements of the Dominion. 45. Small Arms. During the Armourer's inspection of the, four districts for the year ended 31st May, 2,314 rifles were not produced for inspection. The condition of the rifles on issue shows a great want of care on the part of those responsible, and in this connection the matter has been taken up with the Officers Commanding Districts. The supply of component parts is still limited, but this limitation has not interfered with training in Expeditionary Force camps. 46. Machine Guns. A supply of machine guns, Lewis pattern, complete with spare parts, &c, was received during the year and issued. 47. Artillery Stores. Throughout the year the Artillery stores and armament in the Dominion have been inspected and checked. The armament generally is well kept, with the exception of some of the Field Batteries, " F " and " J " in particular. Supplies indented for from. England have been coming forward in greater volume than was expected during the war. A quantity of underproof cordite has had to be destroyed, and other lots are in isolation or waiting for the silvercd-vessel test. A quantity of Q.F. ammunition (6-pr., 12-pr., and 18-pr., and 4-5 in. howitzer) has been made up locally by the Ordnance Section, and when supplies of cordite, shell, &c, are available the whole of this work can be carried out in the Dominion. A number of mercantile-marine ships have been armed and provided with ammunition and stores ; others have been fitted for the reception of defensive armament should such a course be necessary. 48. Engineer Units. All the Territorial Engineer units are short of equipment, but as far as possible they have been provided with sufficient stores to carry out preliminary training. Vehicles, harness, and saddlery are items of equipment mostly required by all units. The accommodation for Engineer stores in each district is very limited and unsuitable, and would be found quite inadequate if the units were supplied with their full equipment. As previously pointed out, the, stores on charge to Engineer units cannot be satisfactorily accounted for and kept in good order and condition in the present circumstances. Losses are, continually taking place ; the stores depreciate owing to want of cleaning and proper storing, and the unit equipment ledgers are not properly kept. This unsatisfactory state of affairs is due to the fact that members of Territorial companies are entrusted with the care of the stores In the first place, they have not the time to devote to the work, and, secondly, they have not yet the, experience required for the proper care and storage of equipment and stores. The remedy appears to be to either have a nucleus of the Permanent Force appointed to each district to look after the stores and assist in the training, as in the case of Field Artillery, or to appoint a permanent Storeman to each district to be responsible for the care and. custody of all Engineer stores in the district. This trouble will be overcome on reorganization of the Territorial Forces on demobilization of the Expeditionary Force now abroad. 49. Arms and Equipment on charge to Districts. A Court of Inquiry was set up for the purpose of ascertaining the position of units in regard to comparison of the stock held and ledger balance caused through the departure of men with Expeditionary Force. This Court dealt, with the Engineer and Artillery units, and from experience gained it was found impossible to arrive at the actual deficiencies until the following information was obtained, viz. : (1) Equipment in possession of units on the 31st July, 1914 ; (2) equipment taken away with Main Body ; (3) equipment withdrawn to equip Reinforcements, Balance as shown by, ledgers after allowing for (2) and (3). - Considerable difficulty has been experienced in obtaining above information, Wellington and Auckland Districts having not yet complied. As soon as information is obtained it is proposed to inquire into and report upon losses.

H.—l9

19

50. Camp Equipment. At Tauherenikau and. Featherston' Camps the tents have been attacked by a mould —in fact, the whole of the 1916 tents are infected with this mould, although in some cases not apparent to the naked eye. Professor Kirk, after making a microscopical examination, found that this mould was still doing its destructive work on tents that looked quite sound. He is now endeavouring to discover a solution which will destroy this mould without injury to material. A good stock of camp-kettles and hardware in general, such as boilers, basins, buckets, &c, are on hand, sufficient to. meet all requirements. Electrical appliances, however, are very hard to obtain. 51. Clothing, Expeditionary Force. The supply of clothing has been well maintained. In addition to equipping Reinforcements, a 20-per-cent. reserve has been maintained. Also, we have shipped to England 37,802 work-shirts, 37,127 undershirts, 37,057 underpants, 37,838 pairs socks, 7,696 jerseys, and 13,126 leather jerkins : total value, £5.1,423 lis. 6d. To Egypt we have shipped 1,800 S.D. jackets ; value, £2,700. During the year 80,606 garments have been renovated and reissued, at a total cost of £9,221 4s. 7d. These garments are laundered and thoroughly disinfected and repaired before issue. Uniform clothing is sorted in grades 1 and 2, underclothing, denims, &c, into grades 1, 2, and 3. Grade lis issued to all Home Service men ; grade 2 is issued to Cl men ; grade 3 underclothing and denims are issued to YD. patients, detention prisoners, religious objectors, and prisoners of war : the result being a saving of £48,918 4s. sd. as against cost of new articles. It is proposed this year to issue grade 1 greatcoats to Territorial Force. Blankets are laundered, disinfected, and graded into grades 1 and 2 at a cost of 6d. each. Grade 1, 11/4, is issued to Expeditionary Force ; grade 2, 10/4 and 9/4, is issued to Home Service in camps, detention prisoners, religious objectors, V.D. patients, and prisoners of war. Territorial 1917 postings and Senior Cadets have been supplied, sufficient stocks being on hand to meet this year's requirements During the year definite instructions were issued that clothing belonging to Senior Cadets who become non-effective for any cause whatever, or clothing which has become too small, must be returned to Ordnance. This clothing is washed, disinfected, and renovated for reissue, at a cost of 55., as against 245. new outfit. 52. Boots. Since the improvement mentioned in my report last year, with the addition of the block toe, which is now in use, the boots arc giving every satisfaction. \\\ addition to maintaining the supply of boots for the New Zealand. Expeditionary Force, we have forwarded overseas to tho G.0.C., N.Z.E.F., United Kingdom, 14,300 pairs of boots, valued at £15,015. The question of forwarding boots to London arose principally owing to invalids returning to New Zealand with a very inferior boot which' cost about tho same as the superior New Zealand boot delivered in London, During the year 30,426 pairs of boots have been repaired, at a cost of ss. Id. per pair, against the contract price of 6s. 6d. After allowing for cost of material, wages, depreciation of machinery, and overhead expenses, a saving of £2,155 3s. 6d. Was thereby effected. Satisfactory contracts for the repair of boots at Narrow Neck and Awapuni Camps have been arranged. The all-leather deck-shoes, mentioned in my previous report, have given every satisfaction. 53. Miscellaneous Stores. Miscellaneous stores, such as hardware, cleaning-material, cooking-utensils, stable gear, picks and shovels, messing-gear, soaps, sodas, &c, have all been arranged for under annual contracts, thereby enabling the Department to purchase in the best market. There are a few minor lines for which annual contracts have not been arranged, as those, responsible for estimating their requirements have not yet been educated up to looking in advance of their present wants, but it is hoped to overcome this during the present year. 54. Ordnance Store Workshops, Trentham. The following machinery has been installed during the year : One 13 horse-power Tangye engine, one circular-saw bench, one chain mortising and boring machine, one band, saw, one shaping-machine, one planing-maehine, one emery grinding-machine, one chain cutter sharpening-machine, one vertical boring-machine, one sandpapering-machine (manufactured in workshops). The cost of upkeep of engine and machinery has been practically nil— i.e., only material to the value of 12s. 6d. being required for repairs. The workshops have, handled 92,670 superficial feet of timber and 57,000 superficial feet of 3-ply. In addition to this, 10,890 running feet of timber was dressed, and 8,301 running feet was sawn ; also, 26,003 running feet electric-light capping, 20,377 running feet electric-light casing, and 814 running feet rebating door-jambs, &c, were done for the Director of Railways and Works Branch. 22,075 articles of furniture, targets, &c, have been manufactured, and 187 articles repaired. After allowing for cost of material, wages, including clothing and rations, separation allowances, depreciation of machinery, and overhead charges, the cost of manufacturing was from 25 per cent, to 35 per cent., below outside competitive prices. It is found that the present workshop store is too small and congested, which adds to the cost of production through excessive handling during manufacture and with manufactured articles. Increased

f1.—19

20

storage space will also be required (a) so that the stock of targets and other essential items be main tamed to meet urgent demands ; (b) so that green timber can be purchased, stored, and seasoned By this means quite 10s. per 100 superficial feet can be saved. During the year a card system has been introduced, by means of which the cost of each article, whether repaired or manufactured, is accurately recorded, in addition to which it will be possible to cheek production. 55, Laundry- work. Laundry-work throughout the Dominion has been placed, since last reporting, upon a very satisfactory footing. Contracts arc now let in Auckland, Rotorua, Palmerston North, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin, and Port Chalmers for washing of all. clothing at reasonable prices, inclusive of hospital linen, transports, &c. At Hanmer the laundry is attached to the hospital, and labour is employed. 56. Troopships. These aro now, so far as Ordnance supplies are concerned, on a satisfactory footing. The net reduction in cost of running our own transports during last year was £105 7s. per week. Since tho introduction of Equipment and Ordnance Regulations, recoveries for loss of stores and equipment in Expeditionary Force camps, districts, and troopships amounted to £15,144 6s. 57. Produce. The amount recovered from the disposal of produce throughout the year was £6,113 15s. 3d. During the past twelve months experiments were made in conjunction with tho Railway Department for the conversion of old horse-shoes to bar iron, intended for reissue for the purpose of manufacturing new shoes. This work has turned out most satisfactorily, saving on the completed new horse-shoes Is. 3d. per set. 58. Storage. During the year the new store in the Ordnance yard at Buckle Street was completed. The building greatly relieved the congestion, but owing to the scarcity of various lines it was necessary to place contracts for bulk supplies covering a greater period than is usual, with the result that it became necessary to take over Te Aro Railway-station. This building has been completed, and has been a great help. A portion of the building is allotted to the Medical Services for the purpose of storing bulk supplies. 59. Returned Effects Distribution. (Deceased and Invalids.) During the year this section received and distributed through the Dominion 32,857 packages ; and in addition 228 kits of deceased soldiers whose next-of-kin reside in other countries have, been collected and despatched. In connection with above work it is satisfactory to note that only one complaint was received during the year, which after investigation was not found to be due to any departmental neglect. 60. Organization. A feature of tho year has been the establishment of the Ordnance Corps and Department upon a regular basis. The result has been most satisfactory. Ordnance depots have been established at Trentham and. Featherston Camps. The depots are in direct account with the several services, thus relieving Camp Quartermasters of an enormous amount of detail work and responsibility and at tho same time ensuring an effective system of accounting, care, and custody. On reviewing the work of the past two years a vast improvement is noticeable in the methods of accounting, care and custody of arms, equipment, and stores throughout the Dominion, and with the continued co-operation and active assistance of the administrative staffs in districts, groups, and regiments greater efficiency and economy will result. To further this end it is proposed to give all group and unit Quartermaster Sergeants a complete training in the Ordnance Department before their appointment to districts. Most efficient help has been rendered by tho Munitions and Supplies Department, the members of which have been untiring in their efforts to assist the Department of Defence in every possible way. 61. Finance. Permanent Staffs, Territorial Force, &c. —The amount voted last year from the Consolidated Fund for defence purposes was £521,141, of which an amount of £428,123 was actually expended, leaving an amount of £93,018 unexpended. This is mainly accounted for by (a) warlike stores on order from England being diverted for use in the field, (b) reduction of Territorial training. It is very probable that the whole amount provided on the current will not be required, but it is considered advisable to keep the estimates up to that pertaining to normal times, so that when peace is declared money will be immediately available to restore the efficiency, equipment, &c, of our home Forces to their former high standard, 62. War Accounts. The work of this department is still increasing, and the Civil staff as at 31st May, 1918, numbered £46. Considerable inconvenience has been caused by lack of sufficient office accommodation, but arrangements have been made whereby it is hoped that this will be remedied in tho near future. Allotments. —The allotment warrants sent out in March totalled 61,198, or an increase of 8,185 during the year.

H.—l9

21

Expenditure. —The total net expenditure to the 31st March, 1918, was £39,041,720 155., including pay of troops, cost of transport, supplies, equipment, and other charges war, as well as the amount paid from War Expenses Account for relief purposes in Belgium and New Zealand. Soldiers''^Accounts. —ln order to avoid duplication of work instructions have, been issued to adopt in [the Staff Paymaster's Office, London, an alteration in thej system of keeping accounts of soldiers abroad which will mean that instead of items affecting pay which a soldier is entitled to draw abroad being posted to ledger accounts both in London and again in New Zealand, the accounts will be kept in London only and the corresponding acquittance rolls will also be retained there. In addition to a considerable amount of work being saved at this end, the danger of acquittance rolls being lost in transit to New Zealand is eliminated. It is anticipated that under this arrangement the approximate position of a soldier's account at the date of his embarkation for New Zealand will be forwarded on the same transport as the soldier, so that provisional settlement of his account can be made almost immediately after arrival in New Zealand. It will still be necessary, however, to hold £2 for contingencies until the noneffective statement is received from London, in view of the fact that cases continue to come under notice where payments have not been entered in pay-books. The number of such cases, it is pleasing to note, is diminishing. " Non-effective " statements of accounts should follow the soldiers within three months of their departure from England ; and, as these statements will boar the certificate of the Audit Section in London, final settlement will be made on receipt of same in New Zealand, thus eliminating to a great extent the work at present necessary in the preparation of statements at this end. The system of extracting from acquittance rolls by means of typewriters with adding-attachnients has now been in force over twelve months, and the work of posting to soldiers' pay accounts is further advanced than at any other time in the history of this branch. As time goes on the position in this direction will improve to the extent that when the change to the system of keeping soldiers' pay accounts entirely in the London Office is commenced, the necessary posting of acquittance rolls on hand will bo so far up to date that the work of balancing accounts as at the date of change-over can be speedily taken in hand. Soldiers' Remittances. —The facilities afforded by tho Department for forwarding remittances to soldiers are still being largely availed of, and the amount remitted to the 31st March, 1918, totalled £239,964 7s. Soldiers' Hostels and Clubs. —The sum of £12,609 10s. lOd. has been contributed by the Government to the 31st March, 1918, to soldiers' hostels and clubs in the United Kingdom and New Zealand. In the United Kingdom these clubs exist at the principal hospitals and depots, and in London. Regimental Funds. —Up to the 31st March, 1918, the sum of £3,699 has been paid by the Government to form the nucleus of regimental funds for those special units which do not participate in contributions from districts in New Zealand. Arrangements have now been made whereby the Advisory Board of the Federation of New Zealand Patriotic War Relief Societies will remit for regimental funds for troops in France £12,000 per annum, and for troops in Egypt £1,500 per annum. Financial Assistance. —The total cost of financial assistance to the 31st March, 1918, was £72,894 is. War Loan Investments.— Facilities were afforded for soldiers to invest in the Dominion's war loan by the following means : (a) Direct payments to Staff Paymaster, London; (6) withdrawals from Post Office Savings-bank accounts in New Zealand ; (c) allotments from military pay : the total amount of such investments being £16,822 to date. Deceased Soldiers' Estates. —Valuable assistance has again been rendered by the Public Trustee, and a large number of estates have been settled during the year. Considerable trouble and delay have been caused through non-receipt of pay-books, due in some instances to ioss by enemy action at sea in transit to New Zealand, and consequent uncertainty as to the completion or otherwise of the will form provided therein. This difficulty has, however, been overcome as from March last by a new system of obtaining from every man (a) a will duly completed on the prescribed form, (6) a statement that he has already made a will, (c) a statement that he does not desire to make a will. These are filed at Headquarters, London, and are forwarded to Now Zealand immediately the casualty is notified. The will forms in pay-books are being cancelled from date, and the non-arrival of the books will no longer be a cause of delay. 63. Army Service Corps. Only one Army Service Corps company went into annual camp as a unit, the other companies went into camp by detachments, where they carried out the supply and transport duties of the various camps very satisfactorily. The Army Service Corps is at present about 40 per cent, under establishment, mainly because so many men enlist in the Expeditionary Force. Every effort is made to bring the units up to establishment, but the constant drain through enlistments renders it difficult to achieve the desired result. The particular difficulty which exists in filling the officers', non-commissioned officers,|and artificers' positions is becoming more pronounced as the war proceeds. 64. Supplies for Training-camps. The supplies for practically all training-camps throughout the Dominion were obtained by contract either by the Munitions and Supplies Department, the Director of Supplies and Transport, or the Assistant Director of Supplies and Transport in each district.

H.— L 9

22

The issuing and accounting for supplies was undertaken by the Army Service Corps, and the result, compared with previous years, shows a great improvement. , The number of tenders received was not up to the average of previous years. The contracts were well executed and the quality of the supplies was good. 65. Canteens. The dry canteens in the annual Territorial training-camps were arranged regimentally, and it is gratifying to note that no complaints were received. The, canteens, barbers' shops, and. restaurant at Featherston, Tauherenikau, and Papawai Camps were, from the 15th November, 1917, taken over by the Department, and are being carried on as a camp canteen controlled by a Camp Canteen Committee. Goods are obtained in conjunction with the Munitions and Supplies Department. Up to the present the results have been most satisfactory. At Trentham the old method of letting by contract continues, but the question of carrying on the canteen under camp management is being considered. 66. Rations and Forage. The. scales of rations now in force in New Zealand are as follows :—

* Twice weekly in lieu of equivalent amount of fresh moat. t Twice weekly: 5 o_. bacon equivalent to 10 oz. fresh meat. % Dried fruit to consist of prunes, peaches, or evaporated apples. Extras for Men in Cl Camp. Cocoa .. .. .. .. .. 1 oz. Sugar .. .. . . .. .. f oz. Fresh milk or . . .. .. .. • • 1 pint. Condensed milk .. .. .. ■ ■ ts * m - Biscuits (ration) .. .. .. .. As required.

Items. Reinforcements, Mobilized Troops, Eirst-class Prisoners of War. Maoris and Islander Reinforcements. Territorial Camps. Bread or .. Biscuits or Flour .. If lb ..lib ..lib 1| lb 1 lb. 1 lb. l-l-lb. lib. lib. Fresh meat or Preserved meat or .. Fish .. H-lb. ..lib ] I lb. 1 lb. 21b 1-1 lb. lib. Sausages Bacon Choose Coffee Jam .. 8oz.* 5 oz.f .. .: .. 2oz. •• ioz 4 oz. 8 oz.* 5 oz.f 2 oz. j oz. 4 oz. 2 oz. |oz. 4 oz. Fresh milk or Condensed milk .. J pint .. | tin | pint | tin | pint. | tin. Flour Baking-powder .. lfoz. .. 31b. each 1001b. flour issued 1J oz. 31b. each 1001b. flour issued I oz. 31b. each 1001b. flour issued. Oatmeal Onions Fresh vegetables Potatoes .. ,, Salt Sugar Tea Butter Pepper Dried fruitj Rice Currants Tapioca Sago Curry-powder Treacle 1 oz. 4 oz. ,. 8 oz. f lb. (new) .. 1 lb. (old) .. .. | oz. .. 4oz. .. f oz. 4 oz. .. fa oz, 7 oz. .. |- oz. .. foz. t}- OZ. .. i oz. .. rf \oz. 1 oz. weekly, in lieu jam I oz. 4 oz. 8 oz. li lb 2oz. 2oz. i oz. 5 oz. f oz. 3 oz. fa oz. y OZ. f OZ. I OZ. j oz. 1 oz. A oz - 1 oz. weekly, in lieu jam f lb. (new). 1 lb. (old). ±oz. 4 oz. I oz. 4 oz. fa oz.

23

H.—l9

The following scales of rations arc in force for (a) soldiers undergoing detention, iff) second-class prisoners of war : —

In each instance the items are a daily issue unless otherwise stated. In addition to the ration allowed for annual Territorial camps an allowance of 2d. per man per diem was granted, and was much appreciated. The object of this allowance is to enable officers commanding units to purchase such extra food as they consider necessary for their men. Owing to the small numbers attending several camps it was found more economical to authorize the issue of a cash allowance of 2s. per man per diem in preference to establishing a supply-depot. In such cases the ration scale was observed, and in one or two instances the allowance was exceeded. No complaint regarding the quality or quantity of the rations was received. The scale of forage rations for the Expeditionary Force, and annual Territorial training-camps is as follows :— Expeditionary Force training-camps : Chaff, 12 lb. ; hay, 6 lb. ; bran, 1J lb. ; oats, 6 lb. Annual Territorial training-camps : (a.) Chaff, 12 lb. ; hay, 6 lb. ; oats, 6 lb. (b.) Chaff, 18 lb. ; oats, 6 lb. (c.) Chaff, 18 lb. ; hay, 6 lb. It was left to the discretion of officers commanding units to use, whichever scale they thought most fitting. An additional 2 lb. oats was allowed for draught horses. The following gives the average cost of rations and forage per head per diem at the, Expeditionary Force and annual Territorial training-camps : —

67. Field Transport. Each district has now on charge wagons and horses, and during this year's Territorial camps horses were sent from the Remount Depot to one or two districts, thus enabling the Army Service Corps to carry out the transport-work in connection with the removal of baggage, supplies, stores, &c, with a considerable saving to the Department. Only a small amount of hiring was done, at places unapproachable by the Army Service Corps. The, carting of supplies, stores, &c, at Headquarters of districts, Wellington, and Expeditionary Force training-camps is carried out satisfactorily as an Army service. Where mechanical transport

T Soldiers undergoing ltem - Detention. Second-class Prisoners of War. Bread .. '.. .. .. .. 12 oz. 16 oz. Fresh meat or .. .. .. .. .. 12 oz. Preserved meat 12 oz.* 6 oz. Coffee 2oz. Jam Fresh, milk .. . . .. .. . . J pint Condensed milk Flour Oatmeal .. . . . . . . . . 2 oz. Fresh vegetables . . . . . . .. 8 oz. Potatoes .. . . .. . . .. 16 oz. Salt .. . . . . . . . . . . | oz. Sugar.. .. .. .. .. .. 2 oz. Tea .. . . . . . . . . .. J oz. Butter .. . . . . .. .. 1 oz. fa tin. loz. 2 oz.f 4 oz. 20 oz. i oz. 2oz. i oz. 1| oz. fa oz. Pepper * Cheese, 4 07,., or rice, 28 oz., in lieu of fresh meat once weekly (optional). If hot 1 oz. choose is equal to 7 oz. rice. f Or equivalent amount peas or beans. >ekly (optional), it peas or beans. If both 6. icese and rice required, then

Camp or District. Cost of Rations, Fuel, Light, and Straw per Diem. Average Cost of Forage per Horse per Diem. 'erritorial camps — Auckland District Wellington District Canterbury District Otago District Ixpoditionary Force camps — Featherston Trenthani s. d. 2 0-774 2 0-050 1 11-489 2 2-110 s. d. 1 10-360 1 5-417 1 3-630 1 7-107 1 6-781 2 4-166 2 3-468 i Note. —Only transport horses and a fe ' hacks in Territorial camps tl lis year.

H—l9

24

is more economical than horse transport the former has been installed, until some twenty lorries, cars, &c, are now in use by the Department. Up to the present mechanical transport has proved satisfactory, and ensures a better and quicker service. 68. Field Cooking. The cooking at camps was carried out as last year, partly by civilian and partly by Territorial cooks. Field cookers were used generally, supplemented by trench cooking. 69. Field Bakeries. The Army Service Corps bakeries are now well established at Trentham and Featherston Camps, and the quality of bread is excellent. Since the inception of these bakeries and up to the 31st May, 1918, an aggregate of 5,118,7691b. of bread has been produced, at a cost of l-747d. per pound, or 6-988 d. per 4 lb. loaf. This cost is based on all expenditure, inclusive of buildings. A considerable saving has been effected at Trentham now the new bakery is in use. Under the old system of field ovens an. establishment of fifteen non-commissioned officers and men was necessary, whereas only six non-commissioned officers and men are now necessary. The saving in wages is over 50 per cent., whilst a considerable saving has also been effected in fuel. 70. Supplies for New Zealand Expeditionary Force, England. Large quantities of supplies — i.e., bacon, preserved meat, jam, peas, haricot beans, butter, flour, cheese, sugar, and condensed milk—for the use of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force in the United Kingdom, are sent monthly or as shipping-space permits. The supplies are purchased through the Munitions and Supplies Department, delivery being taken by the Army Service Corps for shipment. It is found that these supplies can be landed in England at a much less cost than the rates ruling there, so that the cost of maintenance of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force in England is materially decreased. The supplies are all of first quality, and, though shipments have been going on for the past two years, not one complaint has been received. 71. Veterinary Services. Expeditionary Forces. —The establishment of the Veterinary Corps with the Expeditionary Forces in France and Egypt respectively has been kept up"to strength, all requirements for officers and men having been promptly met. 72. Training-camps. Every endeavour is being made to carry out in an efficient manner the training of tho personnel of Expeditionary Reinforcements while in camp, and in addition a still more careful selection than heretofore is being made of men suitable as a result, of their previous experience and general knowledge. The numbers of horses in the camps at the present date are : Featherston —Riding, 350 ; draught, 67 : Trentham, 46 ; Awapuni, 8. The health of the horses in camp has been excellent throughout, no contagious or infectious diseases having made their appearance —except a small outbreak of strangles, which was promptly suppressed. A number of cases of lameness occurred, consequent largely upon the stony nature of the ground in and about the camps, and not due in any case to lack of proper care and attention on the part of the men handling the horses. The type of camp stables adopted in New Zealand, which has been in use for some years at Featherston Camp, has proved extremely satisfactory, and I am of opinion that the use of stables of this type has been an important factor in preventing the occurrence of respiratory troubles among the horses, seeing that the animals are sufficiently sheltered from rain and inclement weather yet are practically in an open-air atmosphere. Now stables are urgently needed at Trentham Camp, where hitherto unsuitable structures have been in use, and steps have now been taken to arrange for the erection of these at an exceedingly moderate cost. 73. Remount Depot. Owing to the cessation of shipments of horses from New Zealand, the work of the Remount Depot, being confined solely to the requirements of the camps, was very materially reduced, and consequently the necessity for maintaining a depot on the scale previously found necessary no longer existed. The depot was temporarily transferred in November, 1917, to the Wallaceville Laboratory Farm, belonging to the Department of Agriculture, and remained there until April, 1918, when it was transferred to Tauherenikau and established on a portion of a farm acquired by this Department. It has been found necessary to cast a number of horses, most of which had become unfit for camp work owing to accidents, injuries, or general unfitness, after a long period of hard work. Several of these animals had been used for training-purposes in the camps since the earlier period of the war. Of these, some were sold privately, others by auction ; but owing to the depressed state of the horse-market it was found that auctioning horses .usually resulted in very small, prices being obtained ; consequently some animals, which obviously would bring little or no return if sold by auction, and for which we were unable to find private buyers, were destroyed, and their carcases boiled and fed to*the the Department pig-farm. The skins were marketed. 74. Horses for Use in Territorial Camps. By comparison with previous years, very few horses were required for use,in Territorial camps. Arrangements wore made under which those camps requiring horses for the use of officers, &c., were supplied with animals from the Remount Depot, these being afterwards returned when the camps closed. By the adoption of this method a considerable saving was effected.

25

H.—l9

75. Camp Pig-farms. In October, 1916, a pig-farm, conducted with full regard to sanitary principles, was established near Trentham Camp for the purpose of utilizing to the best advantage all waste food material from the camp. This has proved a distinct success financially. In April, 1918, a second pig-farm was established, at Tauherenikau, in order that the waste food material from the Featherston and Tauherenikau Camps could be similarly utilized. Both farms are under the control of Captain Tilley, Remount Officer, and the very successful results so far attained are largely due to his energy and capability.

APPENDIX A.

NEW ZEALAND MILITARY FORCES. Return of Prosecutions from 1st May, 1917, to 30th April, 1918.

4—H. 19.

Military District. Group No. Non-registration. j ] I Refusal to take Oath. Absence from or Obstruction of Parades. Convii stions. Senior TerriCadets. torials. Senior TerriCadets. torials. Senior | TerriCadets. j torials. Senior Cadets. Territorials. Auckland 1 2 3 4 17 8 10 29 1 25 15 13 7 35 3 39 33 15 23 7 64 3 40 District totals 9 9 18 30 60 86 78 116 Wellington 5 6 7 8 18 19 20 5 10 4 4 1 15 73 26 19 20 39 16 6 22 25 17 11 60 14 30 69 30 29 24 40 16 6 17 25 32 10 65 12 29 6 District totals • ■ 23 22 199 179 214 190 Canterbury 9 10 11 12 21 10 1 25 1 1 3 2 158 91 18 6 13 36 28 38 HI 18 155 83 41 5 12 36 21 40 35 18 District totals 37 6 286 166 296 150 Otago 13 II 15 Hi 6 15 9 6 4 15 61 5 6 42 17 18 21 53 12 5 25 37 19 15 District totals 30 10 90 103 91 96 Dominion totals 108 68 635 534 679 552 Percentage of convictions on prosecuti< ins : Sent >r Cadets. 91-39 ; 'erritoria Is, 91-69.

H.—l9

26

APPENDIX B. APPOINTMENTS, PROMOTIONS, ETC. Principal Appointments, Promotions, etc., of Officers since the Date of Last Report. A. In the New Zealand Forces serving Overseas. Colonel (temp, Brigadier-General) Edward Walter Chaytor, C.8., C.M.G., t.d., A.D.G., p.s.c, New Zealand Staff Corps, Divisional Commander, Australian and New Zealand Mounted Division, to be Major-General. Dated 22nd April, 1917. Lieut.-Colonel William Meldrum. 0.M.G., D.5.0., 6th (Manawatu) Mounted Rifles, Commander New Zealand Mounted Rifles Brigade, to be temporary Brigadier-General. Dated 23rd April, 1917. Lieut.-Colonel Charles William Melville, D.5.0., p.s.c., New Zealand Staff Corps, Commander Ist New Zealand Infantry Brigade, to be temporary Brigadier-General. Dated Bth June, 1917. Lieut.-Colonel Robert Young, C.M.G., D.5.0., 7th (Wellington West Coast) Regiment, Commander 3rd New Zealand Rifles Brigade, to be temporary Brigadier-General. Dated 7th August, 1917. Lieut.-Colonel Alexander Edward Stewart, D.5.0., 14th (South Otago) Regiment, to be temporary Brigadier-General. Dated 29th March, 1918. B. In the Forces serving in New Zealand. (a.) Staff at General Headquarters : — Department of the Chief of the General Staff — " Major Rayner Barrington Smythe, D.S.O. (New Zealand Staff Corps), returned to New Zealand on duty, was attached to the General Staff as from 26th February, 1918. Department of the .Adjutant-General — Captain (temp. Major) Charles Eric Andrews (New Zealand Staff Corps) was appoint. Assistant Adjutant-General as from 27th August, 191.7. i Captain Alexander James Mcintosh Cross, Unattached List Iff), was appointed Director of Organization as from 27th August, 1917. Department of the Quartermaster-General — Major (temp. Lieut.-Colonel) Murray Menzies Gardner, D.S.O. (Royal New Zealand Artillery), returned to New Zealand on duty, was attached for inspectorial duties connected with Coast Defences, and graded Assistant Quartermaster-General, as from 23rd April, 1918. (b.) New Zealand Staff Corps : — Major-General R. H. Davies, C.B. (since deceased), relinquished his rank and appointment on being transferred to the British Army as from 18th February, 1915. Colonel Vere Staunton Smyth, A.D.C., relinquished his rank and appointment on being transferred to the British Army as from 11th July, 1917. C. Officers of the New Zealand [Staff Corps and Royal New Zealand \Artillery who [have proceeded on Active Service since Last Report. Captain H. L. de F. Garland, Captain G. C. S. Dyer, Captain D. E. Cardale, Lieutenant W. N. Bell, Lieutenant 11. F. Meikle, Lieutenant H. B. Hinson (since deceased), Lieutenant W. Ivory, Lieutenant J. T. Kibblewhite, Lieutenant J. B. Jordan, Lieutenant R. S. Park, Lieutenant K. L. Stewart, Lieutenant L. G. Goss, Lieutenant D. H. W. H. Donaldson. D. Territorial Force. The following table gives a summary of all appointments, &c, in the New Zealand Territorial Forces from 2nd April, 1917, to 3rd May, 1918 :— First appointments .. .. .. .. ... .. .. 199 Temporary appointments . . .. .. . . .. .. 164 Appointments confirmed .. .. .. .. .. 87 Promotions .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 395 Resignations .. . . .. .. .. .. .. 34 To Reserve of Officers. . .. .. .. .. .. 27 To Retired List .. . . .. .. .. .. .. 137 To Unattached List (a) .. .. .. .. .. .. 2 To Unattached List (b) .. .. .. .. .. .. 372 To Expeditionary Force .. .. .. .. .. .. 565 Commissions cancelled. . .. .. .. .. .. ..85 Deaths in New Zealand .. .. .. .. .. 18 Deaths on active service .. .. .. .. .. 42 Struck off strength of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force .. .. 306

H.—l9.

APPENDIX C.

NEW ZEALAND MILITARY FORCES. TERRITORIAL CAMPS, 1918. Auckland Military District. Unit Camps.

Wellington Military District. (a.) Unit Camps.

5—H. 19.

27

Unit. Camp. Date. Officers. Men. Camp-site, how obtained. 3rd (Auckland) Mounted Rifles 4th (Waikato) Mounted Rifles ] Ith (North Auckland) Mounted-Rifles No. 3 Field Company, N.Z. Engineers No. 1 Divisional Signal Company 3rd (Auckland) Regiment (ith (Hauraki) Regiment .. 15th (North Auckland) Regiment Kith (Waikato) Regiment No. 1 Company, N.Z. Army Service Corps .. No. 1 Field Ambulance 3rd (Auckland) Regiment Coast Defence 1st (Canterbury) Regiment Unattached List (ft) N.C.O.s' Class 11th (North Auckland) Regiment 15th (North Auckland) Regiment 4th (Waikato) Mounted Rifles 6th (Hauraki) Regiment 16th (Waikato) Regiment N.Z. Army Service Corps No. 5 Field Ambulance Mounted Signal Troop * " 12 169 15 30 75 38 290 197 1.96 148 108 29 326 1 2 ■Narrow Neck .. Feb. 2 to J June 1 I April 13 to ] May 13 ' 7 2 1 I Government property. N.Z.E.F. [ Reinforcements camp. 1 1 7 Whangaroi 13 5 27 125 305 165 104 200 19 12 8 I Kensington Park. Subsidized by I Government. 1 Claudelands (Wai- | kato) I May 2 to J June I j I 4 "l "2 1 "j I Rented from Waikato Agricultural > and Pastoral Association. Rent, £15. J Totals landing camps, : 59 2,587 ips onto red in periods to undergo their seven No casual camps were held in this district, days' training. The oamps were st md toroi

Unit. Camp. Date. Officers. Men. Camp-site, how obtained. F Battery, N.Z. Field Artillery N.Z Medical Corps 6th (Manawatu) Mounted Rifles 5th (Wellington) Regiment Divisional Signal Company No. 4 Field Company, N.Z. Enginoers N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Dopartmont Unattached List (ft) Retained N.C.O.s Railway Engineers (North Island Battalion) D Mountain Battery Royal N.Z. Artillery N.Z. Army Ordnance Corps N.Z. Veterinary Corps N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department J Battery, N.Z. Field Artillery F Battery, N.Z. Field Artillery N.Z. Medical Corps 9th (Wellington East Coast) Mounted Rifles 9th (Hawke's Bay) Regiment 2nd (Wellington West Coast) Mounted Rifles 6th (Manawatu) Mounted Rifles 5th (Wellington) Regiment 7th (Wellington) West Coast Regiment 11th (Taranaki) Regiment .. .. Unattached List (ft) No. 4 Field Ambulance 9th (Wellington East Coast) Mounted Rifles 9th (Hawke's Bay) Regiment 9th (Wellington East Coast) Mounted Rifles Mounted Signal Troop 5th (Wellington) Regiment 7th (Wellington West Coast) Regiment 9th (Hawke's Bay) Regiment 17th (Ruahine) Regiment Unattached List (ft) N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department No. 8 Mounted Field Ambulance No. 4 Field Ambulance Nos. 3 and 4 Companies, N.Z. Army Service Corps* [ Napier > Karori ,-Waikanae J-Palmorston North J I Wairoa n Feb. 1 to 9 Feb. 1 to 9 Feb. 18 to 29 < Feb. 28 to J Mar. 8 [ Mar. 11 to 19 - I 2 1 1 11 2 1 3 4 1 4 1 1 1 3 1 1 8 7 2 9 5 8 38 23 233 14 79 9 95 10 3 1 39 1 4 29 137 106 19 373 360 Loaned by Napier Borough Council. Loaned by Karori Borough Council. 1 { Loaned by Mr. H. Parata, Waikanae. ( Loaned by Palmorston North I Borough Council. \ Loaned by Wairoa Racing Club. 1 V Wanganui Mar. 27 to J April 4 -Loaned by Wanganui Racing Club. y Gisborne j I I April 22 to 30 ■ 1 2 . 9 4 53 136 153 10 24 I Loaned by Gisborne Racing Club. Y Woodville May 1 to 9 < 1 1 5 6 5 1 1 1 200 275 ► Loaned by Woodville Racing Club. I Awapuni I May 1 to 9 \ 25 21 95 I Loaned by Manawatu Racing Club. Loaned by Manawatu Racing Club. Feb. 1 to May 28 3 Totals 113 2,581 • The officers and men of this corps went into the various oamps in sul Icient numbers to insure ai efficient itaff for the supply of rations, Ac.

H.—l9.

Wellington Military District — continued. (b.) Casual Camps.

Canterbury Military District. Unit Camps.

28

Unit. Camp. Date. Officers. Men. Camp-site, how obtained. F Battery, N.Z. Field Artillery N.Z. Medical Corps 6th (Manawatu) Mounted Rifles .. 5th (Wellington) Regiment Divisional Signal Company .. , .. No. 4 Field Company, N.Z. Engineors Unattached List (ft) .. N.Z. Medical Corps Retained N.C.O.S 5th (Wellington) Regiment Divisional Signal Company No. 4 Field Company, N.Z. Enginoers Unattached List (ft)' N.Z. Medical Corps Retained N.C.O.s J Battery, N.Z. Field Artillery I F.A. Cadre, Napier Feb II to 19 | 1 10 1 26 6 9 Government property. -Karori Feb. 11 to 19 < \ Feb. 20 to 26 <j 3 ; 1 ! Loaned by Karori Borough Coun- " oil. > Karori "'3 19 6 8 Loaned by Karori Borough Counf oil. "2 1 J F.A. Cadre, Palmerston North I Mar. 11 to 19 4 8 J Government property. 2nd (Wellington West Coast) Mounted Rifles 6th (Manawatu) Mounted Rifles . . J Battery, N.Z. Field Artillery 5th (Wellington) Regiment 7th (Wellington West Coast) Regiment l.Ith (Taranaki) Regiment No. 4 Field Company, N.Z. Engineers Unattached List (6) 2nd (Wellington West Coast) Mounted Rifles 6th (Manawatu) Mounted Rifles 7th (Wellington West Coast) Regiment 11th (Taranaki) Regiment .No. 4 Field Ambulance 9th (Hawke's Bay) Regiment 9th (Wellington East Coast) Mounted Riflos 5th (Wellington) Regiment 9th (Hawke's Bay) Regiment 17th (Ruahine) Regiment Chaplains Department No. 8 Mounted Field Ambulance 2nd (Wellington West Coast) Mounted Rifles 6th (Manawatu) Mounted Rifles .. 9th (Wellington East Coast) Mounted Rifles 5th (Wellington) Regiment 7th (Wellington West Coast) Regiment 9th (Hawke's Bay) Regiment 17th (Ruahine) Regiment Retained N.C.O.S No. 4 Field Ambulance f 3 8 1 2 113 58 1 Loaned by Wanganui Racing ! Club. i [-Wanganui April 5 to 181 1 "l 17 15 131 130 2 17 8 3 21 57 - Wanganui ! . .... _ 1 1 [-Loaned by Wanganui Racing Club. April 16 to 23-^ J Clisborne May 1 to 9.. f J Loaned by Gisborne Racing Club. 1 j-Woodville May 10 to 18<! [Loaned by Woodville Racing Club. J Awapuni I May 10 to 18 f 1 6 2 1 15 8 20 15 71 2 I J Loaned by Manawatu Racing Club. ,-Woodville May 20 to 28 -[ - Loaned by Woodville Racing Club. Totals J I 20 826

i Unit. Camp. Date. Officers. Men. Camp-site, how obtained, and Remarks. 1st Mounted Rifles (Canterbury Yeomanry Cavalry) 1st (Canterbury) Regiment, CD. Infantry .. 2nd (South Canterbury) Regiment 8th (South Canterbury) Mounted Rifles Mounted Signal Troop N.Z. Army Sendee Corps Unattached List (ft) No. 3 Field Ambulance 13th (North Canterbury and Westland) Regiment E Battery, N.Z. Field Artillery No. 1 Field Company, N.Z. Engineers Divisional Signal Company N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department 10th (Nelson) Mounted Rifles ]2th (Nelson and Marlborough) Regiment . . 10th (Nelson) Mounted Rifles .'. H Battery, N.Z. Field Artillery .. 12th (Nelson and Marlborough) Regiment .. 11 131 6 11 4 1 1 9 1 6 356 294 84 •9 51 Burnham Industrial School. Site lent by Education Department free of charge. (Camp held in live periods.) J>Burnham Mar. 18 to May 1 39 368 2 4 2 3 8 4 5 5 1 9 45 57 27 I Marshlands 65 129 40 35 218 J I Loaned by Mr. Chaytor. (Camp j held in five periods.) I Loaned by Mr. George MacMahon. f (Camp held in two periods.) J [>Tapawera J April o to -! May I I April 30 trd May 16 [ Totals 93 1,948 No casual camps were held in this district days' training. ;. The camps were si itanding camps, i and troi ■cd in periods to undergo their seven ips ente:

H.—l9.

Otago Military District. (a.) Unit Camps.

29

Unit. Camp. Date. ifficers. Men. . Camp-site, how obtained, and Itemarks. 5th Mounted Rifles (Otago Hussars) No. 2 Fiedd Company, N.Z. Engineers 4th (Otago) Regiment 10th (North Otago) Regiment N.Z. Army Service Corps. . Officers' Training Corps .. - .. Chaplains Department Wingatui First Period. ( Feb. 22 to J Mar. 2 5 1 14 24 8 05 "1 [■Loaned by Dunedin Jockey Club. I. 4 1 J 5th Mounted Rifles (Otago Hussars) No. 2 Field Company, N.Z. Engineers Divisional Signal Company 4th (Otago) Regiment 10th (North Otago) Regiment N.Z. Army Service Corps.. No. 2 Field Ambulance N.Z. Medical Corps 'Chaplains Department -Wingatui Second Period, f Mar. 4 to 12 < 1 5 1 2 1 11 122 1 12 1 1 'Loaned by Dunedin Jockey Club. I 1 1 I I J I. J 5th Mounted Rifles (Otago Hussars) No. 2 Divisional Signal Company .. 4th (Otago).Regiment Kith (North Otago) Regiment N.Z. Army Service, Corps.. No. 2 Field Ambulance N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department •Wingatui Third Period, f Mar. 13 to 20 I 6 1 1 2 171 1 7 3 Loaned by Dunedin Jockey Club 1 1 ■ J J 5th Mounted Rifles (Otago Hussars) No. 2 Field Company, N.Z. Enginoers 4th (Otago) Regiment 10th (North Otago) Regiment N.Z. Army Service Corps. . No. 2 Company Field Ambulance .. Chaplains Department '] I -Wingatui i I Fourth Period. < Mar. 20 to 2 8 "2 1 2 1 1 31 7 2 4 26 ] Loaned by Dunedin Jockey Club. 1 j I , 5th Mounted Rifles (Otago Hussars) 4th (Otago) Regiment 10th (North Otago) Regiment N.Z. Army Service Corps.. N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department j Wingatui i I J Fifth Period, f I April 5 to 13 ■[ I 3 1 1 1 1 36 10 29 4' [.Loaned by Dunedin Jockey Club. I 1 I J 5th Mounted Rifles (Otago Hussars) No. 2.Field Company, N.Z. Enginoers No. 2 Divisional Signal Company . . 4th (Otago) Regiment 10th (North Otago) Regiment N.Z. Army Service Corps.. ... No. 2 Company Field Ambulance .. Unattached List (ft) N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department -Wingatui Sixth Period. ( April 23 to J May 1 1 8 4 2 45 11 11 3 [ I I 'Loaned by Dunedin Jockey Club. I J I F.A. Barracks, j St. Kilda l 3 1 1 I I B Battery, N.Z. Feild Artillery .. C Battery, N.Z. Field Artillery . . Feb. 22 to J Mar. 2 I 3 43 1 [ Defence property. 7th (Southland) Mounted Rifles .. C Battery, N.Z. Field Artillery .. 4th (Otago) Regiment 8th (Southland) Regiment 14th (South Otago) Regiment N.Z. Army Sorvice Corps 7th Mounted Field Ambulance N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department -Tnvercargill First Period, f Feb. 8 to 16 -l 2 11 1 2 62 22 7 2 Showgrounds. Loaned by Agricultural and .Pastoral Society. I Second Period, f "l 1 7th (Southland) Mounted Rifles .. 8th (Southland) Regiment 10th (North Otago) Regiment J 4th (South Otago) Regiment N.Z. Army Sorvice Corps 7th Mounted Field Ambulance N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department i i i i I ( I -InvercargiU I Feb. 16 to 23 <J 2 7 44 3 9 9 6 Showgrounds. Loaned by Agricultural and Pastoral Society. 1 1 C Battery, N.Z. Field Artillery .. N.Z. Army Service Corps N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department I J-InvercargiU (Barracks) 1 } J 3 1 1 35 3 > Artillery Barracks. Defence property. Mar. 6 to 14 7th (Southland) Mounted Rifles 8th (Southland) Regiment 10th (North Otago) Regiment 14th (South Otago) Regiment 7th Mounted Field Ambulance N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department i I y Lumsdon Mar. 18 to 26 2 3 " 16 7 5 4 Loaned by Lumsdon Recreation I Committee. 1 1

H.—l9.

Otago Military District continued, (a.) Unit Camps —continued.

30

Unit. Camp. Date. [Officers. Men. Camp-site, how obtained, and Remarks. 7th (Southland) Mounted Rifles .. 12th (Otago) Mounted Rifles C Battery, N.Z. Field Artillery .. 8th (Southland) Regiment 14th (South Otago) Regiment N.Z. Army Service Corps 7th Mounted Field Ambulance N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department First Period. April -1 to 12-, i 1 12 3 I 51 23 5 1 ] 'Gore . . 1 I 1 2 ; Loaned by Gore Racing Club 7th (Southland) Mounted Rifles 12th (Otago) Mounted Rifles 8th (Southland) Regiment 14th (South Otago) Regiment N.Z. Army Service Corps 7th Mounted Field Ambulance N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department Gore .. I .SecondPeriod. f I I April 12 to \ 20 L 1. 1 1 15 19 32 27 4 4 I -Loaned by Gore Racing Club. 1 2 7th (Southland) Mounted Rifles .. C Battery, N.Z. Field Artillery 8th (Southland) Regiment 10th (North Otago) Regiment 14th (South Otago) Regiment N.Z. Army Service Corps, . 7th Mounted Field Ambulance N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department '' IInvercargill Third Period. ( 14 1 40 3 14 2 I Showgrounds. Loaned by Agri- , cultural anil Pastoral Society. April 15 to-; 23 I 1 1 5th Mounted Rifles (Otago Hussars) 7th (Southland) Mounted Rifles C Battery, N.Z. Field Artillery 8th (Southland) Regiment 14th (South Otago) Regiment N.Z. Army Service Corps.. 7th Mounted Field Ambulance Unattached List (ft) N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department .. .. ' FourthPeriod. : April 23 to J May I 4 1 4 . 52 5 71 30 I 3 - y Invercargill 1 Showgrounds. Loaned by Agricultural and Pastoral Society. I 1 I 2 5th Mounted Rifles (Otago Hussars) Mounted Signal Troop 10th (North Otago) Regiment 7th Mounted Field Ambulance N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department I I I o 16 48 I > Loaned by Clyde Borough Council. I Clyde April 12 toJ 20 j i I "l 1 J 5th Mounted Rifles (Otago Hussars) N.Z. Railways Battalions (Engineers Mounted Signal Troop 4th (Otago) Regiment 10th (North Otago) Regiment N.Z. Army Servico Corps.. No. 2 Company, Field Ambulance N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department First Period, f 1 15 Oamaru May 13 to 21 <j 3 5 93 I 2 Showgrounds. Loaned by Agricultural and Pastoral Society. t SecondPeriod. f I ■> • 5th Mounted Rifles (Otago Hussars) Mounted Signal Trooj} 4th (Otago) Regiment 10th (North Otago) Regiment Officers' Training Corps N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department May 21 to 29J 16 3 2 00 I Showgrounds. Loaned by Agri - cultural and Pastoral Society. Oamaru 1 12th (Otago) Mounted Rifles 14th (South Otago) Regiment N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department Milton I First Period. ( 1 i I 2 7 37 Mar. 20 to 28-' I 1 \ Showgrounds. Loaned by Toko- ( mairiro Farmers' Club. 12th (Otago) Mounted Rifles 14th (South Otago) Regiment Unattached List (ft) N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department i SecondPeriod. ( 1 1 1 1 10 27 Milton April 3 to 11 -( I I [ Showgrounds. Loaned by Tokoj mairiro Farmers' Club. First Period. ( J 12th (Otago) Mounted Rifles 14th (South Otago) Regiment N.Z. Army Service Corps.. N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department ■Balolutha 0 2 38 66 3 1 April I 8 to 20.; I Showgrounds. Loaned by Clutha y and Matau Agricultural and Pastoral Society. I I J 7th (Southland) Mounted Rifles .. 12th (Otago) Mounted Rifles No. 2 Divisional Signal Company .. 4th (Otago) Regiment 14th (South Otago) Regiment N.Z. Army Service Corps. . N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department -Balclutha SecondPeriod. 3 I 41 1 Showgrounds. Loaned by Clutha and M.atau Agricultural and Pastoral Society May 8 to 1 (i <{ I 2 45 I 1 2 I Totals .. 129 I , 970

H.—l9.

(b.) Casual Camps.

Summary.

Return of Attendances at Camps by Units, 1918.

31

Unit. Camp. Date. ! " I 5th Mounted Riffcs (Otago Hussars) .. " B " Battery, N.Z. Field Artillery No. 2 Field Company, N.Z. Engineers No. 2 Divisional Signal Company -Ith (Otago) Regiment .. .. .. r Dunedin .. May 20 to 28-^ Kith (North Otago) Regiment N.Z. Army Servico Corps.. N.Z. Medical Corps Chaplains Department ...... j I Officers. I I Men. 3 4 I I 12 4 I Uamii-sito, how obtained, and Itemarks. [Kensington Drill-hall. Government property. 7th (Southland) Mounted Rifles .. .. "| f 8th (Southland) Regiment .. .. ' , ... ,. , 1n . „,, N.Z. Medical Corps. ... .. .. May 22 to 30-j Chaplains Department ...... j 12th (Otago) Mounted Rifles .. ■ ■ I »,-u * «, no i g. I 14th (South Otago) Regiment . . .. j Mllton * '' M V 23 to 25 \ 5 17 ) i ;.- Drill-hall. Government property. j 1 4 Showgrounds. Loaned by Tokomaru Farmers' Club. Totals Unit camps .. .. ... 6 129 53 1,970 135 2,023 * This oamp was struck on 26th May owing to small numbe sr of of in ion attend ling.

19 .8. 1917. Military District. Officers. Men. Officers. Men. | 189 3,369 191 3,937 214 3,156 146 2,889 Auckland Wellington Canterbury Otago 59 133 93 135 2,587 3,407 1,948 2,023 Total attendance . . 420 10, 9,965 740 13,351 14,091 185

Unit. || ¥ ■a % m £ 5 fl.SQ S-fl fl -" o (H ~ 111 goP (2) I si . %A i I HH fl ll r (3) 11 was ® .2 |1 5 «S' >H 00 Qy _, F« g ea A (4) "3 p O *& 2. oi 2* s>= 1 £ 13 ?■» I 9. fl o - -o B „ Id S fl w o H (5) (6) rrj O 3fl +3 3 -ri 5 1 3 «& a • - flg'S So « |gl |ll ' H ! (7) TJOSl' 3 » s> S ■ |I te p «| S 3 St§33 gl * |3 fl 8'gd. «a m fl S°hh §«'g g ° nit ii s r gg»i *§ « = h fe fc 'A A (8) (9) (10) (11) Strength on Las of 0s ID if 3 I Ojj oo H (12a) Ii of Unit o st Day jj iamp. Ti IO fl as a .ft Or; « •X Wfl °Z 23 a o So o a; H Sh (12b) (13) • (1) 178 '2 3 1 Auckland. 277 400 187 180 399 66-79 520 52-25 250 85-56 180 88-89 3rd (Auckland) Mounted Rifles 4th (Waikato) Mounted Rifles 11 th (North Auckland) Mounted Rifles Auckland Field Artillery Brigade .. Auckland Garrison Artillery Division* No. 3 Field Company, Corps of N.Z. 'Engineers Auckland Mounted Signal Troop .. No. I Divisional Signal Company (Nos. 1 and 3 Sections) 3rd (Auckland) Regiment (Countess of Ranfurly's Own) Coast Defence Detachment, 3rd (Auckland) Regiment (Countess of Ranfurly's Own) (ith (Hauraki) Regiment, .. I 5th (North Auckland) Regiment .. I (ith (Waikato) Regiment No. 1 Field Ambulance No, 5 Mounted Field Ambulance .. Nos. 1, 2, and 5 Companies, Army Service Corps 128 16(1 '73 6 185 207 209 29 160 160 "4 '77 8 8 6 38 57 118 8 11 6 '. 1 2 5 20 10 122 10 63 120 5 8 6 63 2 5 2.. "l "5 '.'. 6 10 111.. 89 95 86-52 31 1 9 43 19 88-89 43 88-37 330 1 331 302 43 44 1 1 16 4 6 9 14 100 392 396 84-44 302 375 475 80-53 197 402 3 .1 5 129 '■ 329 404 404 409 29 11 11 127 254 151 77 119 14 1 24 13 102 238 16 21 123 873 3 ■ 12 302 141 3 10 18 ..172 1 5 20 104 595 641 845 62 20 304 833 ■ 55-29 1,514 ! 63-03 986 ! 48-40 80 46-77 22 55-00 408 83-55 1 29 102 25 Totals .. 1,932 15 28 93! i 2,906 676 41 114 682 1,801 4,419 j 6,220 65-76 I * Mobilize,

H.—l9.

Return of Attendances at Camps by Units, 1918 — continued.

32

Unit. ■3S a, c V s T> ■ ■go J 3>3 Sfia "St in S3 B-*" Ill to (2) a _ « o £ CBGG *s (=1 II M P to (3) ftS as 4S f« p2 $ (4) 1 5 ea £ ss s » -2 s 3 5 to (5) a. o -3 3 % o o H (6) ■do ll <, o o * Hq. ■a 0 .5K p jr. e-s-s a b,° to (7) •doN *= 3 1S §'?§ . t. -w I~2-§°. M m o — 9 a C • 3 3 a. , - if I w o It 3« 1«) 3 J S 5; u OJ & 3 to (10) Id |J £ » 2 ri *&; few |zi to (ii) Strength on Lai of 0a <3 I af O o o a I (12a) 1 of Unit st Day imp. «D 3 p If « (12b) 3 o 0. 3 a 3 -1; '3': » ~* ec 3 2 3 So CO a> C 1 (13) (.1) (8) 1 st Mounted Rifles (Canterbury Yoomanry Cavalry) 8th (South Canterbury) Mounted Rifles 10th Nelson) Mounted Rifles Canterbury Field Artillery Brigade.. Nos. 4 and 8 Companies, N.Z. Garrison Artillery* No. 1. Field Company, Corps of N.Z. Engineers Canterbury Mounted Signal Troop No. 2 Divisional Signal Company (Headquarters and No. 2 Section) 1 st (Canterbury) Regiment Coast Defence Detachment, 1st (Can'terbury) Regiment 2nd (South Canterbury) Regiment.. 12th (Nelson and Marlborough) Regimeni, I 3th (North Canterbury and WoHtland) Regiment Coast Defence Detachment, 13th (North Canterbury and Westland) Regiment-f No. 3 Field Ambulance No. 0 Mounted Field Ambulancet .. Nos. 7 and 9 Companies, Army Service Corps 142 Cte •terbury 142* 56 10 10 270 54-62 3 49 260 88 88 115 12 35 23 523 273 790 32-23 114 83 114 83 52 16 1 7 10 17 14 50 191 109 205 159 59-69 76-15 61 01 10 9 1 11 81 92 75-31 II) 29 10 29 7 .. o "3 I i 17 34 21 36 58-82 85-29 •• 200 1 50 200 150 72 34 ' 6 3 41 43 145 72 325 236 470 308 63-38 66-10 305 301 305 301 250 84 "l2 I 30 ! 22 I 245 24 840 842 503 842 1,343 36-22 71-77 374 374 399 04 23 181 1 30 1 ,041 1,171 35-93 j .. 40 40 12 2 2 34 56 90 71-43 52 52 5 2 '24 59 83 I 88-14 Totals 12,021 2,021 1,118 101 150 631 1 ,859 4,027 5,886 50-19 5th Mounted Riflos (Otago Hussars) 7th (Southland) Mounted Rifles .. 12th (Otago) Mounted Riflos Otago field Artillery Brigade No. 2 Company, N.Z. Garrison Artillery No. 2 Field Company, Corps of N.Z. Engineers Otago Mounted Signal Troop No. 2 Divisional Signal Company (Nos. 1 and 3 Sections) 4th (Otago) Regiment Coast Defence Detachment, 4th (Otago) Regiment 8th (Southland) Regiment 10th (North Otago) Regiment 14th (South Otago) Regiment No. 2 Field Ambulance No. 7 Mounted Field Ambulance .. Nos. 6, 8, and 10 Companies, Army Service Corps Otago University Oflicers' Training Corps (Medical) 116 126 130 84 98 33 2 12 117 180 1 •• 8 2 2 5 23 01 4 30 5 3 1 21 Hago. 110 120 130 96 128 40 7 18 162 241 47 57 43 5 7 23 42 9 1 3 1 1 14 5 : 14 10 2 3 I 2 9 ! 42 12 18 3 71 (1 396 416 281 246 116 31 8 15 602 432 219 210 201. 106 128 54 7 20 258 312 615 626 • 482 352 244 85 15 35 860 744 52-97 00-00 64-68 90-57 100-00 *74-07 100-00 90-00 62-79 77-24 339 90 310 28 3 88 109 339 296 316 37 22 72 158 109 88 11 7 28 29,1 18 2 " 2 107 97 40 15 7 1,385 796 33 196 33 26 693 571 466 56 44 115 2,078 1,307 499 252 77 141 48-92 51-84 07-81 00-07 50-00 02-61 9 22 72 4 0 0 69 38 I 108 27 H 51 139 1 90 77-70 Totals jl',740 330 174 2,254 712 45 110 478; 5,003 3,599 8,062 02-02 Queen Alexandra's 2nd (Wellington West Coast) Mounted Rifles 6th (Manawatu) Mounted Rifles . . 9th (Wellington East Coast) Mounted Rifles Wellington Field Artillery Brigade.. D (Mountain) Battery Wellington Garrison Artillery Division* No. 4 Field Company, Corps of N.Z. Engineers Wellington Mounted Signal Troop No. I ' Divisional Signal Company (Headquarters and No. 2 Section) 5th (Wellington) Regiment 7th (Wellington West Coast) Regiment 9th (Hawke's Bay) Regiment llth Regiment (Taranaki Rifles) .. 17th (Ruahine) Regiment No. 4 Field Ambulance No. 8 Mounted Field Ambulance .. Nos. 3 and 4 Companies, Army Service Corps Wet 20 '.linglon 165 21 145 26 4 298 210 514 76-39 137 215 8 2 23 23 168 240 55 24 80 13 8 19 45 481 725 255 397 736 1,1.22 65-88 60-45 82 99 11 4 18 111 103 10 13 2 5 2 ♦ 2 254 291 130 118 384 409 85-38 87-29 81 16 97 3 37 1 32 138 170 70-29 1(1 14 12 10 20 2 5 12 41 60 15 40 50 100 66-67 05-00 244 370 6 59 21 45 246 348 649 53 91 232 2 16 38 ! 99 1,336 1,256 050 879 1,986 2,135 53-54 73-83 375 371 28121 20 95 "7 55 188 128 430 559 409 28 32 j 98 | 62 1.46 145 27 10 9 3* 1 81 14 19 40 3 o 1 211 351 43 777 977 779 92 68 200 720 1,076 718 58 44 112 1,497 2,053 1,497 150 112 312 59-72 51-95 57-10 48-28 72-73 87-50 "o 3 3 1 Totals |2,572 112 780 3,473 070 458 106 793 7,067 5,566 13,233 62-40 Grand totals 8,271 28 470 1,885 10,654 )3,182 045 546 2,584 10,390 17,011 34,001 60-43 • Mobilized. t No camp held.

33

H.—l9

Extracts from District Annual Reports on Territorial and Cadet Forces, 1917-18.

By Authority : Marcus F. Marks. Government Printer, Wellington.— 1918.

Approximate Cost of Paper. — Preparation, not given ; printing (1,000 copies), £47 10s.

Price Is.]

District. District Concentration Camps. Discipline. General Efficiency. Musketry. I Camp-sites. District Exercises „ . t tTaiT . iT .„ and Courses. Cadet-training. , Health. Infantry. Mounted Rifles. Artillery. Auckland .. Preferable to Excellent .. More marked Shows an im- | Narrow Neck unit camps than last year provement j thought the .. .. .. Efficiency more .. Maintains a best marked than s a t i sfactory last year standard of efficiency. Wellington .. Marked improve- Far ahead of I m p rovement Excellent results All found most A great improve- Very good .. .. New system ment over unit- any yet seen : on previous were obtained ! suitable and ment has re- results with : enabled better camp system in a Terri- years very in camp economical suited in the few excep- training artorial Force marked training tions rangements to camp be made. Canterbury .. Superior in Particularly Most gratifying 25-yard ranges 3 district con- Great benefit to .. Most satis- .. Training more efficiency value good results were used at centration those attending factory satisfactory to any system all camps camps instead than last year, yet tried of 21 unit camps last year • Otago .. Most satis- Excellent .. Continued im- Does not com-! .. .. An improve- Excellent.. Officers and Work performed Improvement factory; better provement pare favour- j ment on N.C.O.s are should be of in the indiinstruction than ably with last j last year improving great advan- vidual work, in unit camps year tage in the future