DEFENCE FORCES OF NEW ZEALAND. REPORT OF THE GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING THE FORCES, FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1st JULY, 1918 TO 30th JUNE, 1919.

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1919 Session I, H-19

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1919 NEW ZEALAND

DEFENCE FORCES OF NEW ZEALAND. REPORT OF THE GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING THE FORCES, FOR THE PERIOD FROM 1st JULY, 1918 TO 30th JUNE, 1919.

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

Sir, — Department of Defence, Headquarters Office, 15th August, 1919. I have the honour to submit herewith the annual report of the Defence Forces covering the period Ist July, 1918, to 30th June, 1919. The Expeditionary Force abroad up to date of the Armistice (llth-12th November) was fully and efficiently maintained, having at no period during the war been below strength, or short of equipment, Reinforcements, and supplies. Shortly after confirmation of the Armistice, instructions to cease sending Reinforcements were received, when demobilization of camps and certain Home Services commenced. The late epidemic, however, delayed and lengthened the process, greatly interfering with the general work of the Department throughout the Dominion, entailing an immense amount of extra work, especially to the Medical and Equipment and Supplies Sections. Up to date the transport of returning drafts of the Expeditionary Force on demobilization from abroad has been generally satisfactory. At the present rate the troops still abroad should be all en route by the end of August or early in September. The Territorial and Cadet Forces have been carried on. Every endeavour was made to meet the various industries and shortage of labour. When the necessity for more Reinforcements ceased the Territorial camps and concentrations for the year were cancelled to still further meet commercial and pastoral industries. The experience gained amply proves that a more concentrated period of training at the ages of eighteen to twenty inclusive, instead of extending over the ages of eighteen to twenty-five, as at present, is very desirable. A condensing of the seven years' present training obligations into three years would, 1 feel sure, prove much more economical and convenient to industries and pastoral affairs. In further reference to reducing the years of liability, on account of the uncertainty as to date of return of camp equipment, accoutrements, arms, guns, and stores, &c, which were sent abroad with the Expeditionary Force, and the natural necessity for post-war reorganization, the training of the Territorial Forces for the year ending May, 1920, must be continued on present regulations and somewhat similar to this year. This will enable a policy for sea and air defence to be discussed and formulated. The suggested reconstruction of training our land Forces above outlined should bo considered at the same time, absolute co-ordination of the three services being an essential factor in regard to economical administration and finding of personnel. When the war broke out in 1914, on the recommendation of the Inspector-General, Oversea Forces (General Sir lan Hamilton), the system of reorganization by the appointment of an Officer in Charge of Administration was about to be introduced. For obvious reasons this had to stand over, but it is now being brought into effect, Brigadier-General G. S. Richardson, C.8., C.M.G., C.8.E., being the first appointed General Officer in Charge of Administration. General reorganization throughout the Dominion will follow in due course concurrently with demobilization. Thus by the end of 1919 it is hoped to return to normal peace establishments of the New Zealand Staff Corps and other Permanent Services, when, except for obligations to sick, wounded, and incapacitated soldiers requiring treatment, the service of Defence will assume pre-war conditions. There are certain vacancies in the New Zealand Staff Corps for officers, and in the Permanent Staff for instructors and non-commissioned officers, only temporary appointments having been made during the war. Selection to fill these vacancies will be made after a qualifying course to be held towards the end of this year. Conditions and terms of service can be obtained from District Offices. ft is hoped to thus secure suitable and efficient officers and non-commissioned officers from the late Expeditionary Force to fill these vacancies.

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The estimates for the year 1919-20 will be prepared on pre-war requirements under the Defence Act, awaiting development of policy for the future in regard to sea, air, and land defences, based on the Peace Treaty and general experience gained during the war. In this connection the formation of a representative Defence Committee directly advisory to the Government through the Minister of Defence to study the world's sea, land, and air strategical problems is worthy of consideration. In making this suggestion 1 have in mind, the following functions which such a Committee might fulfil : — (a.) To ensure the collection of strategical information, its expert and careful consideration in relation to New Zealand defence, and for the transmission of well-balanced and impartial advice to the Government: (b.) To enable the Commandant and Administrator of the Defence Forces to concentrate on their true functions of training and administering the Forces authorized by Parliament to a state of the highest possible efficiency : (c.) To assist in continuing the principles of coalition in regard to Defence matters which has proved so successful during the Great War : Id.) To continue the policy initiated during the war of co-ordination with business firms, factories, manufacturers, and producers, in order to ensure ready development and ample supplies of equipment, clothing, supplies and munitions, land and sea transport, &c, against any future mobilization : (c.) To ensure direct economy in all the above matters in respect to all services of Defence, both in peace and war. 1 have pleasure in again bringing to your notice the cordial co-operation of the various Departments of the State with the Defence Department, also the generally excellent and steady work of all ranks (military and civil) at General Headquarters, and the various stations throughout the Dominion. A. W. Robin, Major-General, The Hon. the Minister of Defence, Commanding N.Z. Military Forces.

SECTION 1.-THE DOMINION SECTION OF THE IMPERIAL GENERAL STAFF. Drills and Parades. When the Armistice was granted in November, 1918, the demobilization arrangements for the Expeditionary Force and a desire to inflict the least possible inconvenience to the private industries made it advisable to suspend the annual camps for training-year 1918-19. Although the cessation of training-camps will unquestionably result in diminished efficiency, it is hoped that the return of the Expeditionary Force will compensate for this by supplying the depleted ranks of the Territorial and Cadet units with war-trained officers and other ranks. Discipline and Efficiency of all Units. Throughout the Great War a general improvement in discipline was noticed annually, largely the product of patriotic spirit and also recruits with Cadet training. Courses of Instruction. Courses for senior officers of Staff Corps and Territorials were held as in past years by the Director of Military Training and by the Staff Officers in districts. Throughout the war these valuable courses have enabled all ranks to receive the benefit of the latest teachings in modern warfare from expert officers, the majority of whom had seen service at the front. This training proved of enormous value to those attending who afterwards joined the Expeditionary Force, and enabled a great advance to be made in the efficiency of officers and noncommissioned officers temporarily attached for duty with the Permanent Staff. The Cadet Force. A steady improvement has been made in the discipline and efficiency of the Cadet Force since the institution of the 1916 syllabus of training. The endeavour throughout the war was to send the Cadet into the Territorial Force as a trained recruit, with a satisfactory degree of discipline and individual efficiency. Similarly, the Territorial Force endeavoured to train its officers, non-commissioned officers, and Territorials to a degree of efficiency which would prove of benefit when they joined the Expeditionary Force. In order to assist civilian labour the training of the Cadet Force in country areas was suspended in 1917 for the duration of the war, with the exception of a quarterly muster parade. This suspension remains in force during the period of demobilization. The training of Cadets in town areas has been continued, in cases where undue hardship or essential industry required the exemption of Cadets from training, in which case ample arrangements have been made for this to be given. The importance of the Cadet Force to the efficiency and discipline of the Territorial Force cannot be exaggerated. During the Great War the training of the Cadet Force was seriously interfered with owing to lack of instructors and instructional equipment. The Cadet Force is therefore to be congratulated upon the fact that each year of the war saw its discipline increasing, a proof that the work given was of a satisfactory order, and that all ranks possessed a knowledge of the importance of their

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work. The increase in the standard, of discipline and efficiency in the Territorial Force which has been apparent during the past three years is largely due to the annual postings of trained and disciplined Cadets. The difficulty of training Cadets in country areas will be apparent to all. A new syllabus of Cadet training came into force with the new training-year, which aims at developing citizenship and at improving the physical, mental, and moral qualities of the Cadets under instruction. In those cases where progressive training can be carried out under this syllabus it is confidently expected that good results will be obtained. This new syllabus of Cadet instruction has been compiled as the result of reports from many hundreds of officers and others drawn into close touch with Cadet work throughout the Dominion. It is recognized that the primary requirement for good citizenship is a healthy physique, and the latter can only be attained or retained by close attention to hygienic principles, particularly during those important and impressionable years of a youth's life between' fourteen and eighteen. Consequently this matter receives the closest attention in the new syllabus, while subjects dealing with the formation and strengthening of character are also dealt with. Tests will be carried out under the new syllabus every six months for eyesight, teeth, and hearing, which will disclose any serious faults in time for these to be corrected. The new syllabus is the result of considerable labour by experts in their subjects, who have behind them the experience and advice of those throughout the Dominion best calculated to form a judgment, while the statistics obtained throughout the war from the Expeditionary Force camps offer sufficient proof of the necessity of concentrating on the physical well-being of the young citizens of to-day who will form the future generations of to-morrow. Territorial Camps. Owing to the requirements of demobilization and to further meet conditions of commercial and pastoral employers the Territorial camps for 1918-19 were suspended. It is regretted that this was considered necessary, for these camps have proved of the greatest value throughout the war, and have permitted Territorial units to maintain a satisfactory standard of discipline and efficiency, while affording an opportunity to units in country areas for the completion of their musketry courses. Staff and District Exercises. District exercises for the instruction of senior Staff, Territorial Force, and Cadet officers were held in the Auckland and Canterbury Districts by the Director of Military Training. These courses were well attended and were economically conducted. In addition to the courses held by the Director of Training, each District General Staff Officer held courses for the instruction of officers and non-commissioned officers, which were well attended, and at which most valuable instruction was given. Throughout the war these Staff and District exercises have provided instruction in the latest teachings of modern war, and have enabled the senior officers in New Zealand to keep up to date in these matters, while affording those officers proceeding to join the Expeditionary Force with valuable instruction before leaving New Zealand. In all, over five hundred senior officers attended the courses held by the Director of Military Training between 1916 and 1918, while many hundreds of others attended those held by the General Staff Officers in districts. In the Wellington District alone no less than 4,308 officers and non-commissioned officers attended courses and classes of instruction during the period of the war. Mounted Rifles. The majority of the rank and file of Mounted Rifle units are recruits of this or last year's postings. Being anxious to reduce expenditure in every possible way, it was decided in 1917 that the provision of horses for Mounted Rifle training could be suspended. This was rendered possible by the majority of the rank and file consisting of recruits requiring elementary training in dismounted duties. Royal New Zealand Artillery. Owing to the large number of all ranks seconded for service with the Expeditionary Force, those remaining with the regiment were only just sufficient to keep the armament, instruments, and machinery in an efficient state, and to supervise and instruct the Home Service details which were attached for Coast Defence duties. All ranks of the R.N.Z.A. have been called upon to perform considerable extra duty, and duty of higher ranks than their own has been done cheerfully and satisfactorily. A high standard of discipline has been maintained in the R.N.Z.A. during the war. Very considerable difficulty was experienced in obtaining Home Service men of a suitable type to replace those of the R.N.Z.A. serving with the Expeditionary Force. With the signing of the Armistice the Home Service details were demobilized, except those required to keep the R.N.Z.A. up to its minimum establishment. Garrison Artillery and Electric-light Section. Most of the Garrison Artillery companies have held camps during the year, and carried out instructional practice, all ranks showing great keenness. Considering the very small amount of training men had received —being largely composed of recruits on going into camp—the results are satisfactory, and reflect great credit upon all ranks, including the limited number of R.N.Z.A. instructors that have been available.

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During many anxious times throughout the war officers and other ranks of the R.N.Z.A. and Territorial Garrison Artillery have been called upon to perform trying and arduous duties, often monotonous and always responsible. Deprived of most of its best officers, non-commissioned officers, and men, as well as short of guns, equipment, and other essentials, those retained in New Zealand for garrison duties have performed excellent service and loyally carried out their duties. Territorial Field Artillery. Field Artillery Cadres. The original Artillery cadres have been maintained by enlisting temporary ranks from returned soldiers and men unfit for the Expeditionary Force. These were put through courses of instruction at Wellington, and performed very satisfactory duties with the various cadres. By these means the majority of the R.N.Z.A. Field Section were enabled to join the Expeditionary Force. The cadres are still much below strength, but their efficiency is as high as can be expected in the circumstances. Territorial Field Artillery. Throughout the war the Artillery units have been severely handicapped, but have managed to sustain a satisfactory degree of training. Considering that the response to the calls of the Expeditionary Force was so good, that the personnel was ultimately almost entirely composed of recruits, and taking into consideration the expert nature of Artillery training, the standard of efficiency of Artillery units has been very good. The outstanding feature of Field Artillery units in New Zealand has been the fine spirit of esprit de corps existing in most batteries. This spirit was reflected noticeably in the Reinforcement drafts to the Artillery units of the Expeditionary Force. A sufficiency of guns, saddlery, and other essential equipment was often unobtainable for Field Artillery camps, but the best was done under the circumstances, and very valuable training was given by the Artillery units throughout the war. Engineers. Field, Companies. Throughout the war Field Engineer units have, carried out very satisfactory training, although deprived of a large percentage of their officers and instructors, and exceptionally ill-provided with equipment. This shortage was owing to the requirements of the Expeditionary Force, and the Field Companies did their best under most difficult circumstances, and reached a creditable standard of efficiency. Signal Units. The Signal units have also been considerably handicapped by lack of equipment and shortage of instructors. Notwithstanding this drawback, the Signal units have retained in .most cases a satisfactory standard of efficiency, considering the adverse conditions under which they have worked during the past four years. Railway Battalions. The training of the Railway Battalions was carried out continuously during the war, with the exception of a period at the time of the influenza epidemic. The shortage of officers, non-commissioned officers, and instructors, and lack of equipment and technical material, have all contributed towards making it difficult to carry out progressive instruction. Notwithstanding these serious difficulties, the standard of efficiency has been satisfactory, taking into consideration the abnormal conditions. Post and Telegraph Corps. This corps has throughout the war provided an excellent training-ground for signallers joining the Expeditionary Force. A healthy spirit has pervaded all ranks of the Post and Telegraph Corps throughout the war, and. considering the lack of training equipment and shortage of instructors, the results obtained by the majority of its units have been highly satisfactory. With proper equipment there is little doubt but that this corps would rapidly become highly efficient in communication and other work, and be a most valuable arm for defensive purposes. Musketry throughout the corps has been fostered by competitions for trophies presented by the local controlling officers of the Post and Telegraph Department. Infantry. That most valuable arm of modern war, the Infantry, has suffered very severely in the Territorial Force. Throughout the war the Infantry units have uninterruptedly supplied the Expeditionary Force with large numbers of officers, non-commissioned officers, and men ; in fact, by 1918 the majority of Infantry units possessed nothing but men under Expeditionary Force age. In some units the supply of officers was very much below strength, while non-commissioned officers, instructors, and equipment were throughout the war far below requirements. Notwithstanding this, the spirit of all ranks and the arrangements made by the Training Staff to meet abnormal conditions resulted in a satisfactory degree of efficiency in the majority of units, while the standard of discipline was considerably higher than could reasonably have been expected.

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Musketry. The musketry of the Territorial and Cadet Forces has been considerably interfered with by the abnormal conditions existing through the Great War. Chief among these has been lack of rifles and instructional equipment. During the past training-year musketry was seriously interfered with by the influenza epidemic. In addition, many units rely upon carrying out their musketry when at annual camps. In order to assist employers it was decided to suspend camps during 1919, with the result that musketry suffered. These factors have resulted in the musketry of the Territorial Force not reaching a satisfactory standard, but in the Cadet Force a marked improvement has been made, which to a large degree resulted from the energy and enthusiasm of certain Group Commanders and Territorial officers. Chief among the difficulties presented by the musketry training of the Cadet and Territorial Forces (60,000 strong) was the. small percentage of rifles to establishments which remained for these forces when the claims of the Expeditionary Force and the training-camps were satisfied. Prior to the Armistice the rifles available for the Territorial Force were in the proportion of 31 per cent, to the strength. Of these rifles 50 per cent, were unsuitable and otherwise unfit for firing owing to fair wear and age. This left the Territorial Force with but 16 per cent, of rifles with which musketry practice could be conducted, while the Cadet Force was practically without rifles throughout the war. Since the Armistice many thousands of rifles have been despatched to the Territorial and Cadet Forces from the Expeditionary Force camps, and many of the difficulties of carrying out efficient musketry instruction will now disappear. That these Forces were able to carry out this instruction during the war reflects the utmost credit upon those responsible, who, faced with enormous difficulties, did their utmost to make the best use of the limited supply of rifles and material available. Rifle Clubs. The Rifle Clubs have assisted throughout the war in recruiting and other matters, and have been the means of training many who, while ineligible for service at the front, desired to serve their country in case of emergency. Unfortunately the outstanding claims of the Expeditionary Force during the war considerably limited range accommodation and have severely handicapped Rifle, Clubs. It speaks highly for the spirit animating Rifle Club members that they still retain their keenness, and, as the Dominion Rifle, Meeting at Trentham in March, 1919, showed, they have succeeded in maintaining and developing many fine shots. Courses ok Instruction at Secondary Schools. Courses of military instruction (barracks) were held at the following schools by the Director of Military Training and by members of the District Training Staffs during the Great War : Christ's College, King's College, Wanganui College, Waitaki High School, Nelson College, Otago Boys' High School, Wellington College, Timaru High School, Invercargill High School, Christchurch High School, St. Patrick's College, and Soots College. A high, standard of discipline was maintained throughout, these, barracks, and the results obtained from the instruction at these schools exceeded all expectations. The object of holding these barracks is as follows : The secondary schools of the Dominion, being essentially democratic in principle, permit the entrance of those youths possessing the best brains. It is generally recognized that officers should be selected not by reason of their birth or financial position, but because of their mental capacity. The Territorial and Cadet Forces require large numbers of well-trained officers and non-commissioned officers, who not only will have to command in the future, but also instruct those under their charge. By means of these barracks the, attention of the Cadets is directed towards serving their country as efficient officers or non-commissioned officers in the future. In addition these barracks result in a healthy spirit of rivalry being created between the, secondary schools of the Dominion, many of the best vying with each other to possess the, best Cadet unit. These barracks are held at the expense of the schools concerned, and cost practically nothing to the Defence Department. No attempt is made to restrict them to the big or wealthy schools, every secondary school in the Dominion being offered an equal opportunity of holding barracks. The enthusiasm which prevails is evidenced by the fact that the Director of Military Training has twice held barracks at one school in the Dominion, practically all of whose pupils have free places, where, however, the enthusiasm is so great that each Cadet voluntarily paid his expenses for a four-days course of instruction. During the war these barracks resulted in supplying the Defence Forces with a number of officers and N.C.O.s, in addition to officers for the Royal Air Force. Many schools have applied for barracks during the coming training season, and it is most satisfactory to note the spread of this system of training. Instructional Staff and Officers of the Territorial and Cadet Forces. Great credit is due to the efforts of the Instructional Staffs and those officers of the Cadet and Territorial Forces who during the war have done so much towards the training of all ranks for the, Expeditionary Force, while assisting the efficiency and discipline of the Territorial and Cadet units, although severely handicapped by lack of instructors and instructional equipment of all kinds. The work of many of these officers and non-commissioned officers has been done at considerable, self-sacrifice, and the greatest credit is due to those who, notwithstanding unique and gigantic difficulties, helped to maintain the strength and efficiency of the Defence Forces. In this connec-

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tion particular credit must be given to those members of the. Instructional Staff who returned from service at the front and who contributed in the fullest degree towards this efficiency. The initial - efficiency and discipline inculcated in the ranks of the Cadet and Territorial Forces was directly contributablc to the results obtained in the Expeditionary Force camps and the splendid achievement of the New Zealand Forces in the field. Royal Military College of Australia. There are at present thirty New Zealand Staff Cadets at the Royal Military College of Australia. Twelve candidates sat for examination this year, only one of whom passed. Seven candidates who joined in 1915 graduated at the end of 1918, and are now undergoing courses of instruction in New Zealand. The 1916 class will have completed their term in December, and this year also one member of the 1915 class who w r as put back a year. The New Zealand Staff Cadets are more than holding their own at the College. Examination of Officers for Promotion. Officers of the Royal New Zealand Artillery and New Zealand Staff Corps. No examination for officers of the above Corps has been held since 1914. Territorial Force Officers. In August, 1918, twenty-seven officers presented themselves for examination for promotion, of whom eight passed. Of the nineteen who did not qualify, eight failed in one subject, five failed in two subjects, five failed in three, and one failed in four subjects. In February, 1919, eighteen officers sat for promotion, of whom thirteen passed. Of the live who did not qualify, four failed in one subject and one in three subjects. From the Ist May, 1918, to the Ist May, 1919, officers as follows qualified by examination for promotion : Four for Lieut.-Colonel, nine for Major, fourteen for Captain, and thirty for Lieutenant. Examination for First Appointment to Commissions. In the past year thirty candidates qualified for commissions under the conditions relating to the. above examination. Courses of Instruction at Trentham Camp. For Territorial and Cadet Officers and Non-commissioned Officers. ■ Immediately following the granting of the Armistice arrangements were made for courses in physical training, musketry, Infantry drill, and machine guns to be conducted at Trentham Camp for the instruction of selected, officers and non-commissioned, officers of the Territorial and Cadet Forces. A small but expert Training Staff was retained in Trentham for this purpose, and arrangements were made to place the services of these instructors at the disposal of the Wellington District at those times when there was insufficient work for them at Trentham Camp. These courses commenced in the -first week in February, and continued until the end of May. Each course lasted for a fortnight, and the fact that the number of entries increased for each of the six courses held shows that their value was appreciated by officers and non-commissioned officers throughout the Dominion. Many letters have been received from the parents of Cadet non-commissioned officers attending expressing their satisfaction with the courses, while the improvement made in the efficiency of those attending was most satisfactory in the majority of cases. The popularity of these courses is evidenced by the fact that some officers and non-commissioned officers attended for two and even three courses, and will shortly attain to a standard of efficiency qualifying them to be efficient instructors,in certain subjects. A special course was held during the vacation period for secondary-school officers and non-commissioned officers, which was attended by over ninety officers and non-commissioned officers. One school, over 80 per cent, of whose pupils are free-place students, sent no less than twenty-seven non-commissioned officers to one course alone. No better proof could be given of the recognition by headmasters of the necessity and value of this training. Courses held by Trentham Instructional Staff in District*. During the winter months the Instructional Staff will hold courses in each of the military districts for the instruction of members of the Permanent Staff and officers and non-commissioned officers of the Territorial and Cadet Forces who are able to give the necessary time. Arrangements will be made by the District Staffs for these winter courses to be conducted in the evenings and at such other times as will not interfere with the civil duties of those attending. By means of these courses a large number of officers and non-commissioned officers will be given the opportunity of qualifying as instructors in those subjects required for Territorial and Cadet training, and it is hoped by these means to economically supply all units with their own instructors. Particularly is this necessary in regard to physical training, a most important subject and one requiring many hundreds of well-trained instructors. Apart from the instructional value of these courses, very startling statistics have been collected from the examination of those who have attended, who, presumably, are the pick of the Territorial and Cadet Forces, in regard to their physical development and hygienic well-being. For example, it was discovered that fourteen out of twenty non-commissioned, officers attending one course of physical training possessed physical imperfections of a remediable nature, the correction of which

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was a comparatively simple matter, but which would have developed into serious disabilities once these, non-commissioned officers had arrived at maturity. Similarly, the state of their teeth was found to be most deplorable. (See dental report under the Branch of the Adjutant-General.) Summary : Territorial and Cadet Forces during the Great War, 1914-18. Immediately following the declaration of war New Zealand was able to despatch the first Expeditionary Force of the Empire to occupy Samoa. Shortly afterwards an Expeditionary Force was sent to Egypt for service where required, and for the duration of the war. Simultaneously with the declaration of war Reinforcement camps were formed, and from these camps regular Reinforcements, trained to a satisfactory degree of both efficiency and discipline, have uninterruptedly followed. All of the Expeditionary Forces and the Expeditionary Force camps were largely composed of members of the New Zealand Permanent and Territorial Force, and, but for the training and the good equipment of the Defence Forces prior to the war, the Expeditionary Force could not have been despatched except after considerable, delay. At the, commencement of hostilities the Territorial Force was at a total strength of approximately 29,000, and from this Force some 500 officers and 5,000 other ranks became immediately available for the first Expeditionary Forces. The total strength of officers and other ranks which have passed from the Territorial Force to the. Expeditionary Forces abroad throughout the war is approximately 1,500 officers and 40,000 other ranks. In addition the majority of the Administrative and Training Staffs of the Expeditionary Force camps were composed of officers and non-commissioned officers of the Territorial Force, while the vacancies created in the four military districts by the absence on war service of Staff Corps officers and members of the Permanent Staff were filled by the, temporary appointment of officers and noncommissioned officers from the Territorial and Cadet Forces. In addition to this severe drain on the Instructional and Administrative Staffs of Territorial units, the requirements of the Expeditionary Force levied a severe contribution on the arms and instructional equipment of both the Territorial and Cadet Forces. This resulted in these Forces being deprived of a large percentage of their best officers and non-commissioned officers and men, and, in addition, losing a large portion of their necessary training-equipment at a time of extreme emergency. The consequent difficulties of successfully carrying out the training of the Cadet and Territorial Forces became great, and would have been impossible but for the hard and conscientious work of those in charge of this important training. Thanks to the work of those members of the Permanent Staff remaining, and to officers and non-commissioned officers of the Territorial and Cadet Forces, the Expeditionary Force was uninterruptedly fed with its necessary quota of efficient officers, non-commissioned officers, and men. During the war the total strength of the Territorial Force became absorbed into the Expeditionary Force ; in addition, approximately 10,000 others were trained in its ranks who subsequently joined the Expeditionary Force. This is clear proof of the value of the Territorial Force throughout the war. When faced with the problem of continuing the training of the Territorial Force in 1914 the Defence Department decided that it was essential to the efficiency of the Expeditionary Force that this training should continue throughout the war. As a result of this policy some 8,000 Cadets were annually enrolled and trained in the Cadet Force, while an approximately equal number were annually transferred to the Territorial Force after completing four years of progressive training ; while from the Territorial Force from 8,000 to 10,000 transferred annually to the Expeditionary Force. By this means the Expeditionary Force was continually fed with a supply of trained officers, non-commissioned officers, and Territorials, the majority of whom had several years' experience in the Cadet and Territorial Forces before proceeding to the front. This provided the Expeditionary Force Reinforcements with a stiffening of trained officers, non-commissioned officers, and Territorials, who proved of the utmost value in expediting the training of those joining the Expeditionary Force without previous military experience. As an example of what was done in this connection, one military district alone posted 10,286 Cadets to the Territorial Force during the war, and 9,018 Territorials to the Expeditionary Force during the same period. These figures are representative of the record of the remaining three military districts, and show that practically every officer, non-commissioned officer, and man of the Territorial Force eligiblefor service at the front joined the Expeditionary Force. The officers and non-commissioned officers temporarily posted to the Training and Administrative Staffs at the commencement of the war did their best to carry out their duties satisfactorily, and in the majority of cases became efficient with experience. Owing to the calls of essential industries, the drills and parades of both Territorial and Cadet Forces were considerably curtailed in November, 1917. The result of this curtailment was to considerably reduce the Territorial and Cadet training in the country areas. While it was essential to interfere as little as possible with the business of the country, this reduction of training naturally decreased the efficiency of Territorial and Cadet units. The outstanding feature, however, of the reports received annually from each military district was that an increased discipline was apparent in both the Territorial and Cadet Forces. This is largely attributable to the attention which has been paid to Cadet training throughout the war. In order to avoid interference with the essential business of the country, exemption from military training was made exceptionally easy. This was accomplished by special arrangements being made, placing the power of exemption in the hands of senior officers, from whom exemption was obtainable

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in all genuine cases with a minimum amount of delay or inconvenience. The privilege was largely used, with the consequent result that it became difficult to give the necessary training to a large percentage of Territorials, but the best possible was done under the circumstances. It is reasonable, therefore, to conclude that — (1.) The Expeditionary Force could not have been so quickly established or equipped but for the existence and efficiency of the Territorial Force. (2.) The Expeditionary Force, training-camps and the. District Groups and Areas could not have been administered efficiently without the aid of the Territorial officers and non-commissioned officers who filled the vacancies of those who left with the original Expeditionary Force. (3.) The Territorial and Cadet Forces maintained an automatic supply of officers, noncommissioned officers, and Territorials for the Expeditionary Force which very considerably improved the training of this Force. It is satisfactory to state, that although New Zealand supported an Expeditionary Force in France, Egypt, and Samoa for four years of war, and sent over 100,000 of all ranks to the front from a population of a little over a million, it also wisely maintained a sufficient Defence Force in New Zealand without retaining troops for home service who were required with the Expeditionary Force. Had the training of the Territorial and Cadet Forces been suspended at the outbreak of the war some 60,000 Territorials and Cadets now serving would have lacked both training and discipline. The utmost credit is due to those officers and other ranks of both the Permanent, Temporary, and Territorial Staffs who have done so much to bring about this satisfactory result. The difficulties of training the Territorial and Cadet Forces have been enormous. In this respect, as in many others, the enthusiasm, self-sacrifice, and loyalty of the.Training Staff compensated for many of the deficiencies in material. SECTION II.—THE BRANCH OF THE ADJUTANT-GENERAL TO THE FORCES. Royal New Zealand Artillery. There are still twelve officers and eighty-four other ranks of the R.N.Z.A. away on service with the Expeditionary Force. A considerable number of those who have returned from the front have applied for their discharge from the R.N.Z.A. in order to seek more lucrative employment in civil life; nine discharges have been granted. The regiment is now thirty-six under strength ; very few recruits are offering, and up to the present the applicants do not include one returned soldier. After the Armistice was signed it was possible to reduce, considerably the number of Home Service men attached. The reduction was effected by granting discharges to those who wished for it in order to take up other employment. The number of Home Service men now attached is only eighty-two. This number, together with the R.N.Z.A. proper, is barely sufficient for the care and preservation of the material on charge. Recruits are now urgently wanted. The various Returned Soldiers' Associations and Repatriation Department are being circularized so as to give returned soldiers the first opportunity of filling the existing vacancies.' Judged from a " crimes " point of view, the high standard of discipline is still maintained, there being only three regimental entries during the year. It is noticeable, however, that the smartness in dress and carriage, which in pre-war days was equal to the best regular soldiers, has considerably fallen off, and, whilst all ranks are undoubtedly loyal to the regiment and its officers, a refresher course in drill and discipline as soon as conditions permit is very essential. Nuw Zealand Staff Corps. In August, 1914, the strength of the New Zealand Staff Corps was eighty-four. Since then twenty-four Cadets, graduates of the Royal College of Australia, have been taken on strength, making a total of 108. In December, 1918, seven cadets graduated from the Royal Military College on completion of the full course of four years. This is the only class which has undergone the full course at the Royal Military College of Australia. These officers are now undergoing instruction at training-camps and at General Headquarters. The following shows the disposition of the officers of the New Zealand Staff Corps during the war :— Embarked on active service .. . . . . .. . . 77 Transferred to R.N.Z.A. and to active service . . . . . . .. 8 Retained in New Zealand on duty .. . . .. .. 4 Retained in New Zealand, unfit for active service .. .. .. .. 7 Transferred to N.Z. Army Ordnance Department . . . . . . .. 1 Retired unfit for further service .. .. . . .. .. 1 Resigned . . .. .. .. . . .. .. .. 3 Died in New Zealand .. .. .. . . ..' . . .. 1 Attached to camps and General Headquarters for instruction - Cadets from Duntroon Military College . . ~ ~ ~ .. .. 6 108

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The present disposition of the seventy-seven officers who left New Zealand for active service is as under :— • Killed in action .. .. .. .. .. .. 13 Died on service .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 1 Still on service with Expeditionary Force.. .. .. . . 18 Returned to New Zealand for duty .. .. . . . . . . 47 Returned to New Zealand for retirement .. .. .. . . .. 1 Transferred to Imperial Army .. . . .. .. . . .. 2 77 Those officers who have returned to New Zealand for duty since the Armistice was signed have been posted as far as possible to the districts in which they were stationed prior to proceeding on active service. They have been allowed to retain temporarily the ranks gained by them while serving with the Expeditionary Force. These postings are, however, only temporary. At present there are thirty Cadets under instruction at the Royal Military College, Duntroon, who, as they graduate, will receive, commissions in the New Zealand Staff Corps. New Zealand Permanent Staff. At the outbreak of war the strength of the New Zealand Permanent Staff was 214. Since then only one permanent appointment has been made thereto. To fill the vacancies caused by the departure on active service of members of the Permanent Staff instructors were specially engaged for the duration of the war only. In making these appointments preference was given as far as possible to returned soldiers. The. results achieved by the temporarily appointed members of the New Zealand Permanent Staff have fully justified the formation of this temporary section. Since the Armistice a, considerable number of these temporary instructors have been discharged, and such discharges will increase, as the, permanent warrant officers and non-commissioned officers return from active service. The following table shows the, disposition of the New Zealand Permanent Staff from the outbreak of war to date :— Embarked for active service . , .. .. .. .. .. 110 Retained for duty in New Zealand .. .. .. .. 58 Transferred to Army Ordnance Corps .. .. . . .. .. 3 Discharged .. .. .. . . .. .. .. . . 6 Dismissed .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 1 Engagement terminated on return to Imperial Army .. .. .. I Died in New Zealand .. .. .. . . .. . . . . I Resigned . . .. . . . . .. ..... . . 5 215 The present disposition of the 140 who left New Zealand on active service is as under : — Killed in action .. .. .. .. .. .. . . 25 Died of wounds on service .. .. .. .. .. .. 2 Died in New Zealand after return . . .. .. . . I Returned to New Zealand on duty and reposted .. .. .. 68 Discharged alter return.. .. .. .. .. .. ..10 Dismissed .. .. ... . . . . .. .. .. 1 Transferred to Imperial Army . . .. .. .. .. ... 1 Engagement with Imperial Army terminated .. .. .. .. 2 Transferred to Army Ordnance Department after return .. .. .. 2 Still serving .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 28 140 Sixteen warrant officers and non-commissioned officers of the New Zealand Permanent Staff have been granted commissions in New Zealand, and twenty have been granted commissions in the New Zealand Expeditionary Force, these commissions being subject to adjustment when demobilization is completed. New Zealand Medical Services. There were just sufficient Medical Officers for duty in the Expeditionary Force and camps until the Armistice was signed. As regards the Territorial Force the, same difficulty in finding sufficient whole-time Medical Officers was experienced, but arrangements were made with the local sanitary inspectors to co-operate with the Department as regards the sanitary conditions of the various camps and surroundings. Returning Medical Officers with special training are being retained in the interests of the, sick and wounded. A. semi-permanent Medical Corps has been established for duty in the various military hospitals and convalescent homes. Awapuni Cam.]) was closed on the 14th February, 1919. The training of the Medical Corps is now carried out at Featherston.

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Portions of Featherston and Trentham are being fitted up and equipped as military hospitals for sick and wounded. The hospital accommodation is being increased at Auckland, Rotorua, and Dunedin. Complete orthopaedic hospitals have been established at Auckland, Wellington (Trentham), Christchurch, and Dunedin. A hospital has been established at Rotorua especially for physio-therapeutic work and for cases for whose treatment the natural advantages of Rotorua are particularly suitable. A special hospital for jaw and facial injuries has been established at Eunedin, and a srcciel hospital for cases of shell-shock, neurasthenia, and other functional nervous disorders at Faini r, Military wards have been added to the public hospitals at Napier, Masterton, and Palnerston North. Convalescent homes exist at Auckland, Wanganui, Wellington, Timaru, Dunedin, and Inveicaigill. In the establishing of these convalescent homes invaluable, assistance has been rendered by tie New Zealand Branch of the British Red Cross Society. Sanatoria are in process of construction at Pukeora (Waipukurau) and Cashmere Hills. Tie latter will be occupied in a few days. Medical Stores. The 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 shipping difficulties. The operations of the store continue to be most satisfactory, as shown hereunder :— Period 1917-18 — £ s . d. .£ s. d. Stock on hand.. .. .. .. .. .. .. 2,500 0 0 Purchase of drugs, &c, during period .. .. .. .. 10.184 11 3 Drugs and equipment issued .. .. .. .. 7,576 3 0 Stock 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. Period 1918-19— £ s. d. £ s. d. Stock on hand .. .. .. .. .. .. 5,108 8 3 Purchases of drugs, &c, during period .. .. .. .. 12,180 16 8 Drugs and equipment issued . . . . . . . . 6,928 2 10 Stocks on hand at end of period .. .. 10,361 2 ] £17,289 4 11 £17,289 4 11 Working-expenses for period (pay, clothing, &c), £1,750. By comparing the figures for the periods under review it will be seen that the expenditure has been increased by £1,996 ss. sd. This increase is due to the purchase of electrical equipment and increasing of stocks ; but, taking the value of our stock on hand at the end of the period, it will be seen that there is a saving of £8,364 16s. Bd. This saving is due to obtaining our supplies through the Imperial Army Contracts. Against this saving, working-expenses have been increased £275, such increase being caused through additional staff. In addition, a saving of £81 2s. has been effected by. the manufacture of ointments, &c, as shown in the attached schedule. During the, period under review 9,31.4 prescriptions were dispensed, with an approximate saving of £1,397 2s. The garrison dispensaries at Auckland, Christchurch, and Dunedin. have proved most satisfactory, not only in the dispensing of prescriptions, but in the treatment of out-patients with dressings, swabbing and painting of throats, and urine-testing. The saving in [inscriptions is estimated as follows : Auckland prescriptions dispensed .. .. .. .. .12,428 Saving (approximate) .. .. .. .. .. £1,864 4s. Christchurch prescriptions dispensed .. .. .. .. 1,538 Saving (approximate) .. .. .. .. .. £230 4s. Dunedin prescriptions dispensed .. .. .. .. .. 1,357 Saving (approximate) .. .. . . .. .. £203 lis. The dispensaries at Christchurch and Dunedin were opened on the 22nd June, 1918. A garrison dispensary has since been opened at Hastings. At present there is sufficient stock on hand to meet our requirements until the end of the year 1919-20, and no requisitions have been forwarded for next year's supplies. It is hoped by then, that the cost of present prices will fall. During the recent epidemic the medical stores ""and garrison dispensaries were of the greatest assistance to the civil T>o nidation in sunnlymg drugs and materials to the cost of about £2,000. This was charged against the Public Health Department. To give some idea of the use the medical stores weT-e during the eoidemic, there were railed or shinned to the different parts of the Dominion 434 oackages. In addition there were made in the store 618 gallons of soda-salicylate mixture, 348 gallons cough mixture, and 161 gallons tonic mixture.

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List of Goods manufactured in the Medical Stores, Year ending 31st March, 1919.

New Zealand Dental Services. The dental treatment of Reinforcement drafts was continued up to the time of the signing of the Armistice, and during the period concerned all drafts left New Zealand practically dentally fit. The establishment of the Dental Corps, N.Z.E.K., continued to be increased as the necessity arose to treat greater numbers of troops and to maintain their mouths in a satisfactory dental condition, and in November, 1918, there were forty-two officers and seventy non-commissioned officers and men on duty overseas. A Dental Officer and mechanic were attached to each hospital ship until the completion of the final charter. In December, 1918, the Director of Dental Services was sent to Headquarters, N.Z.E.F., Lontlon, to arrange as far as possible for the completion of the dental treatment of all ranks prior to embarkation, and an additional staff of twelve officers was sent abroad with the object of carrying out this proposal. As a result of the organization in this direction there is a very marked improvement in the dental condition of the troops now arriving in New Zealand. The staff of the corps in New Zealand lias been reduced to a, minimum, a sufficient number being retained to cope successfully with the treatment necessary for returned soldiers in Featherston and Trentham Military Camps, and in the various hospitals and sanatoria throughout the Dominion. The dental treatment performed for Reinforcement drafts in the Expeditionary Force camps for twelve months ending 30th November, 1918, consisted of the following operations : — Fillings .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 88,984 Scaling operations .. .. .. . . . . . . 7,247 Extractions .. .. .. .. .. ..41,1.17 Artificial dentures .. .. .. .. .. .. 7,981 Repairs to dentures .. .. .. .. ~ 1,221

(Showing the, comparison in cost of mann S I fact urn between the said stores and ical wholesale houses.) Article. Quantity in ,,, ., . Pounds. Store Wce ' Wholesale Price. I Ung. acid boric Ung. zinoi oxcidi Ung. sulphur Ung. antiseptic Ung. hyd. ammon. Ung. cfirysarobin Ung. capsici Ung. gallae opii Spr. chloroform Tine, quimi. amnion. Tine. iodi. mit. Camphorated oil .. .. ... Glycerine and pepsin Dusting-powder Glycerine ac. carbolic Glycerine ac. tannic. . Glycerine ac. boric Glycerine belladonna Lin. A B C Lin. Saponis Co. Lin. terebinth Syr. simplex lcytyol and glycerine Liq. morph. mttr. Liq. arsenieallis £ s. d. 14 0 16 11 42 8 15 0 4 0 4 10 4 0 18 11 10 0 12 6 I 0 3 3 I 0 I 9' 3 I A 71 30| 4 II 6 251 28 4 9 351 13 10 11 251 3 10 11 2" 0 3 6 4 0 3 0 II 0 2 71 21 0 6 101 17" I 9 7 3 0 18 0 53 15 18 0 63 5 10 3 10 0 116 70 0 1.7 6 2-1 0 5 0 3 0 12 0 121 0 3 1U 89 Ifi 1 £ s. d. o i(> it 8 15 0 0 -1 10 0 18 11 0 12 (i 0 3 3 0 I 9' 1 A 71 4 1.1 6 28 A 9 13 10 11 3 10 11 0 3 6' 0 3 0 0 2 71 0 (i 101 1 9 7 0 18 0 15 18 0 5 10 3 0 116 0 1.7 6 0 5 0 0 12 0 0 3 111 £ a. d. 1 3 0J 14 17 6 0 8 0 1 8 0 1 10 0 0 3 9 0 3 0 15 6 4 19 41 40 15 9' 57 0 9 4 15 11 0 6 0 0 7 4 0 4 6 0 10 0 2 11 0 1 14 6 22 11 6 9 9 0 1 2 6 1 9 2 0 8 1| 1 4 0 0 10 5 89 16 1 170 18 1 Wholesale Store o» in t 170 18 89 16 1 1 Amount saved £81 2 0

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These figures taken in conjunction with former returns show the gross total of operations performed in Expeditionary Force camps in New Zealand since the inception of the corps in November, 1915, to the signing of the Armistice in November, 1918, to be as follows : — Fillings .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 221,214 Scaling operations .. .. .. .. .. .. 18,337 Extractions .. .. .. .. .. .. 98,817 Artificial dentures .. .. .. .. .. .. 24,223 Repairs to dentures .. .. .. .. .. 3,560 Total attendances .. .. .. .. .. .. 260,990 During May, 1919, the dental examination and charting of 251 Cadets undergoing training in Trentham Camp was carried out by the Dental Staff. The figures supplied disclose the fact that only fifteen boys diet not require dental attention, and that the remainder presented an average of approximately twelve defective teeth each. These lads, for the most part, were educated at secondary schools; and it is interesting to note that compared with the men of the Second Division of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force each Cadet presented, on an average, 6-5 more defective teeth than the soldier of the New Zealand Army. As it was thought probable that the parents and guardians concerned were, unaware of the serious dental conditions existing, a circular letter was sent in all cases where necessary, drawing attention to the defects and stressing the very great benefit which would result if these boys were given the opportunity of an early visit to a dentist. Strength of the Forces. The strength of the New Zealand Defence Forces on the 31st March, 1919, was as under :— Territorial Force .. .. .. .. .. .. 25,626 Senior Cadets .. .. .. .. .. .. 31,109 Rifle Clubs .. .. .. .. .. .. 6,354 Total .. .. .. .. .. .. 63,089 The above figures do not include members of the Territorial Force serving overseas with the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. Legislation. Since the last report the following Acts affecting the New Zealand Forces were passed into law : The Repatriation Act, 1918, making provision for the repatriation of soldiers ; the War Legislation and Statute Law Amendment Act, 1918, amending, inter alia, certain enactments having reference to the then state of war ; the Military Decorations and Distinctive Badges Act, 1918, prohibiting the improper use or disposal of military decorations and other insignia; the Expeditionary Forces Amendment Act, 1918, amending the law relating to the raising and maintenance of Expeditionary Forces for service abroad during the war. Prosecutions. Appendix A is a return showing the prosecutions laid under the Defence Act, 1909, and its amendments, from the fst May, 1918, to the 31st March, 1919. During that period the percentage of convictions to prosecution was: Territorials, 92; Senior Cadets, 76*40. The number of prosecutions for breaches of the Defence Act compared with those for the corresponding period last year show a decrease of 77 in the case of Territorials, and an increase of 130 in that of Senior Cadets. Registrations. From the commencement (2nd Juno, 1911) of registration for military training under the Defence Act up to the 31st March, 1919, the following registrations have been recorded : —

From the Ist April, 1918, to the 31st March, 1919, the total number of registrations throughout the Dominion was 10,327. Posting. The modification of the original scheme, for posting annual quotas as outlined in my last report for the year 1917 1.8 was continued for the year 1918-19. The General Training Section having been absorbed into units of the Territorial Force, postings were carried out direct from the Senior Cadets to the Territorial Force. These postings were effected on the Ist June, 1918, and, as in the 1917-18 posting, first consideration was given to Coast Defence units, particularly Garrison Artillery divisions at defended ports, which were brought up to full strength before any postings were made to other units of the Territorial Force.

District. Territorials. Senior Cadets. Totals. Auckland Canterbury .. Otago Wellington Totals 11,072 25,026 7,763 25,551 6,930 17,643 10,608 30,736 36,373 98,956 36,098 33,314 24,573 41,344 135,329

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The following table shows the numbers posted in each district: —

Table of Postings, 1917-18.

Regulations and Publications. The following regulations have been gazetted since my last annual report: — (a.) Under the War Regulations Act, 1914 : War Regulations providing for compulsory national service for alien enemies and other persons of alien enemy descent; War Regulations making it an offence to trespass on a wharf guarded by the Naval or Military authorities ; War Regulations requiring the production of military papers on request of Civil police ; War Regulations providing for the, closing of licensed premises before, upon, or after the arrival of any oversea vessel carrying troops ; War Regulations (amendments) providing for the protection of the. property of soldiers or discharged soldiers from the execution of civil process ; War Regulations providing for the administration of the property of prisoners of war by the Public Trustee. (b.) Under the Military Service Act, 1916 : Regulations as to employment in the Home Service Branch, New Zealand Expeditionary Force. (c.) Under the Expeditionary Forces Act, 1915: Amendments to regulations governing the appointment, promotion, and gradation of members of the, New Zealand Expeditionary Force- ; amendments to the regulations governing the disposal of officers, warrant officers, and non-commissioned officers invalided from the New Zealand Expeditionary Force ; regulations as to appeals by persons whose names are entered in the, military defaulters list. ((/.) Under the Defence Act, 1909, and its amendments: Amendments to regulations re military honours and military funerals ; enlistments into the Royal New Zealand Artillery ; equipment of the New Zealand Military Forces ; duties of the Assistant Director of Medical Services of a district; promotion of officers of the New Zealand Medical Corps ; age for retirement of Chaplains ; registration, enrolment, and posting to the Territorial Force; Rifle Clubs and Dominion Rifle Association; alteration to establishment of New Zealand Army Pay Corps ; special grants for the Territorial Force ; organization and general duties of the New Zealand Army Pay Department; allowance for the use of private motor vehicles ; orderlies to His Excellency the Governor-General; regulations for the New Zealand Army Medical Department and New Zealand Medical Corps ; amended regulations re pay and allowances of New Zealand Staff Corps, Royal New Zealand Artillery, New Zealand Permanent Staff, New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps, and New Zealand Army Pay Corps ; Reserve of Officers and Retired List; disposal of condemned, surplus, and obsolete stores. The following official publications have been issued : — (a.) New Zealand Army List for June, 1918, and December, 1918. (/>.) General Orders (monthly). Special General Orders : —■ (c.) Returned Soldiers' Handbook (three demobilization editions). ((/.) Demobilization Scheme. (c.) Demobilization Instructions for New Zealand Troops on the Voyage to and in New Zealand. ((.) Rules for Military Detention Barracks. (;/.) Rules and Regulations for Defence Vessels and Boats, and Instructions lor their Maintenance. (h.) Notes for the Guidance of Military Police. (».) The Soldier's Guide. (j.) Instructions in the Method of Accounting, Care, and Custody of Territorial and oadet Clothing, &c. (k.) Instructions regareling the Wearing of Orders, Decorations, and Medals. 1(1.) Transfer to Quarantine Island of Soldiers suffering from Venereal Diseases. (m.) Pay and Allowances, New Zealand Expeditionary Force (Foreign Service Branch). (n.) Pay and Allowances for Members of New Zealand Defence Forces employed on Home Service. (o.) Separation Allowances, New Zealand Expeditionary Force (Foreign Service Branch). (p.) Instructions for Supply and Transport Service. (q.) Syllabus of Cadet Training, 1919.

District. To Senior Cadets. I ! To Territorial Force. I Totals. Auckland Canterbury .. Otago Wellington Totals i 1,903 2,380 1,411 3,235 8,929 2,110 1,971 1,377 2,907 8,365 1 4,013 4,351 2,788 6,142 17,294 8,365 17,294

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Chaplains. Apart from those serving with the New Zealand Expeditionary Force, the Chaplains had little opportunity of performing service, but when their services were required they have nobly responded. This particularly applies to the " epidemic " period in November, 1918, when, at considerable risk and sacrifice, the Chaplains at the Expeditionary Force camps, &c, worked untiringly to relieve the suffering of the sick troops and to comfort the dying. A total of 141 Chaplains have served overseas with the New Zealand Expeditionary Force, and six of this number have either been killed in action or died while on service abroad. By recently gazetted regulations the retiring-age for Chaplains has been fixed at fifty-five years, but in special cases extensions of service may be granted up to the age of sixty years. Base Records. The work in this branch has shown a regular but considerable increase during the year, and there are now 99,695 files for members of the Expeditionary Force who have proceeded overseas, and 16,200 subject files on various matters arising out of the war. In addition some 50,000 files from the Recruiting Branch have been amalgamated with the files of the Expeditionary Force. During the present year it is anticipated that the work will further increase, as it is intended to house the recruiting records, and when the War Expenses Branch removes to the new building Base Records will be responsible for the whole of the records for both branches. The general improvement in condition and saving of time and labour by having all records dealing with the Expeditionary Force at home and abroad housed in one building will be incalculable. In the General or Subject Record Section it became necessary, owing to the Director of Military Hospitals Branch, and the Educational and Vocational Training Section being located here, to start systems of records dealing with each matter. With the signing of the Armistice the work in the Casualty Section has practically ceased, and the ledgers received from London containing casualties on the western front are now being cheeked with this office records preparatory to the issue of a final casualty-book and a general alphabetical index of all casualties suffered by members of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. The number of men returning from overseas is increasing rapidly, and the demobilization of the fit men from the ship's side entails long hours and heavy work on the part of the staff to keep the discharges up to date and so prevent any inconvenience to the returned soldier. A considerable number of applications for discharge overseas have been received, and this has added considerably to the work of the branch. The cessation of casualties, and the fact that Army Casualty Forms, Active Service, are now being received with each returning draft, make it possible to reduce the work on the history-sheets which have proved so valuable in the, past in the accurate and expeditious handling of casualty returns, rolls of returning drafts, and notifications to next-of-kin. It is anticipated an early reduction of this section will be effected. The preparation and issue of medical rolls and service certificates will shortly recruire to be put in hand. The King's Certificate is now being issued. The Honorary Staff was demobilized on the 31st March, 1919, after practically three and a half years' invaluable work. Recruiting. The work of recruiting for the New Zealand Expeditionary Force progressed satisfactorily until, on the cessation of hostilities with, Germany, tin; despatch of Reinforcement drafts to camps ceased. Experience gained in previous years was taken advantage of, which enabled further minor improvements in the administration of the Military Service Act to be put into effect. At this date the whole of the First Division and Classes A, B, and C of the Second Division were exhausted either by voluntary enlistments or by the operation of the ballot. Owing to the Armistice intervening, the members of Class D of the Second Division—namely, those with three children—were not balloted for. As time went on the Government Statistician was enabled to still more accurately classify the Second Division Reservists, and consequently the gross numbers drawn in the later ballots did not suffer to the same extent as in the earlier ballots by the striking-off of men wrongly drawn. The position as at the 12th November, 1918, regarding the 134,632 Europeans called up under section 10 of the Military Service Act is as follows : — Total Men called up. First Division (single men) .. .. .. .. .. 80,083 Class A, Second Division (married men without children) .. .. 13,466 Class B, Second Division (married men with one child) .. .. 17,507 Class C, Second Division (married men with two children) .. .. 23,576 Total called up .. .. .. .-.134,632

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Medical Examinations.

In the early part, of 1918 the Government decided to put into force section 50 of the Military Service Act, 1916, and to call up by ballot under section 10 of that Act the Maoris of the WaikatoManiapoto District, the Gazette of the first Maori ballot being published on the 6th May, 19.18. To deal with the medical examination of Maoris a special District Medical Board was set up. Similarly, a Military Service Board was established to deal with appeals lodged by or on behalf of these Natives. At the outset considerable trouble was encountered in dealing with the Maoris, but as time went on matters improved, until finally with the drawing of the fourth ballot (the last drawn) little or no trouble was experienced. In the four ballots 552 were drawn, these being disposed of as follows : — Struck off (dead, left New Zealand permanently, in prison over one year, &c.) . . 76 Appeals adjourned sine die .. .. .. .. .. 27 Sent to camp .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 99 Under orders for camp on 12th November, 1918 .. .. .. ..19 Temporarily medically unfit .. .. .. .. .. .. 2 Fit appellants whose appeals were pending .. .. .. ..15 Awaiting medical examination .. .. ;. .. .. ..51 Lost or temporarily unavailable .. ..' .. .. '.. .. 117 Classed C 2 '.. .. 146 Total .. .. .. .. .. .. ..552 Voluntary recruiting continued brisk, owing no doubt to Reservists preferring not to see, their names published in the ballot Gazettes. The, total number of volunteers dealt with from the 25th September, 1916, until the 12th November, 1918, was 24,105. This included Maoris, Rarotongans, and other islanders. Of these, 13,939 were found medically fit and despatched to camp, 720 being under orders for camp. The total number of men dealt with under section 34 of the, Military Service Act up to the 12th November, 1918, was 213, of whom 50 were despatched to camp for active service and 47 for compulsory home service; the final position as at the 12th November, 1918, regarding men dealt with under section 35 of the Act being 2,876, of whom 880 were found medically fit and despatched to camp. During the year thirty-two religious objectors had their appeals allowed by the Military Service Boards under section 18 (I) (c) of the Military Service Act, and were under orders to report for duty at the Central Development Farm, Levin, on the 16th December last. Owing to the building for their accommodation not being completed, the Agricultural Department could not accept these men earlier: consequently, with the Armistice intervening, orders issued to these men to report at Levin wire cancelled, and the men were demobilized, together with those wdio had been employed at the farm since the 7th January, 1918. In September last a scrutiny of all files in the office of the Director of Recruiting was commenced by an experienced staff, and a very careful check was made to ensure that these files were complete in every detail and in proper order. This work involved some 165,000 files, and was practically completed in March last, with the exception, of a number of cases which necessitated further inquiries being made from other branches of the, Defence Department and camps. Co-ordinate with the, scrutiny of files, sheets were prepared in numerical order showing action taken, medical status, age, country of birth, and the final disposal of every man dealt with. With the suspension of recruiting a, commencement was immediately made with a view to curtailing, the staffs required for the carrying-out of the Military Service Act, Military Service Boards and District Medical Boards being abolished by the end of the year 1918, and Group District Staffs brought down to almost normal strength. When recruiting had censed there still remained a, vast amount of work to be completed in the office of the Director of Recruiting, including the compiling of various necessary lengthy returns. The staff, however, was gradually demobilized, until on the 31st March, 1919, there, remained only the skeleton staff selected to carry on the work of the branch. On this date the Director of Recruiting relinquished his appointment, and the branch as such actually ceased to exist. District and Group Organization. The system of replacing fit members of District Staffs by returned officers and other ranks was continued until the date of the Armistice. The return of a number of Staff Corps officers from the Expeditionary Force has admitted of the demobilization of a corresponding number of Territorial

I First Division. Class A, Seoond Division Class B, Seoond Division Class C, . Second Division I Total. | i Total fit men embarked .. I 18,006 Total (it, men not embarked .. 10.866 . Classed C2 . . . . . . 39.990 Classed D .. .. .. 2.201 796 2.015 8.115 105 32 5,533 10,856 130 4 8.861 13.598 III 18.838 27.275 72,859 2,547 I Totals .. .. 71.063 11.331 16,551 22.571 121.519

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officers temporarily employed on District and Group Stall's. Wherever practicable, these, officers have been posted to their original stations, pending redistribution of officers of the New Zealand Staff Corps on reorganization and reversion to norma] peace conditions. All District and Group_ Staffs have been reduced to an economical minimum consistent with efficiency, and when demobilization has been completed will be brought down to normal peace establishment. The transfer of the weifrk in connection with the treatment of discharged soldiers from the Public Health Department to the l Defence Department necessitated a slight modification in district organization. To deal with this situation a special branch at District Headquarters was formed, known as District Headquarters (Medical)," under the control of the Assistant Director of Medical Services of each district. The latter was made directly responsible, to the Officer Commanding the District for the administration and control of the whole of District Headquarters (Medical), which is responsible for the records and medical treatment of all returned soldiers within its particular district. Discipline. The discipline of the Territorial Force continues to be satisfactory, and shows still further improvement in the reduction in the number of those prosecuted under the Defence Act as compared with the previous year. During the latter part of the existence of the Expeditionary Force training-camps the, improvement in the discipline, of the troops throughout the Dominion was very marked, and the general conduct of all troops has been most satisfactory. Returned soldiers on leave prior to discharge arc, on the whole, very well behaved, considering the fact that they are scattered and away from the discipline, of their units. Organization. Certain changes in the organization of the Department of the Adjutant-General have been effected during the year. On the, signing of the Armistice and the consequent suspension of the operation of the Military Service Act, and the cessation of all recruiting for the Expeditionary Force, the Directorates of Recruiting and Personal Services were abolished, skeleton staffs being retained for the winding-up of work under action by these two branches. SECTION 111.-BRANCH OF THE QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL TO THE FORCES. Drill-halls and other Buildings. The policy of last year has to a great extent been continued, the Department's efforts being chiefly directed to the maintenance of existing buildings in a state of repair. Expansion in regard to office, and store, &c, accommodation has been confined strictly to essentials. Extension in provision of increased accommodation for Medical Branch requirements has been considerable. This, of course, was inevitable at the termination of the war, owing to the evacuation to the Dominion of all invalided troops and necessity for completion of their treatment locally. With the arrival of the Army divisional equipment and stores suitable accommodation at local centres must be, found ; in the*meantime Trentham r will be'used to cover them. Defence Vessels. These vessels have been fully employed during the year, and during the period of repatriation will continue to be so. When demobilization is complete the position will require to be reviewed in accordance, with altered circumstances and the possible establishment of a Naval Service in the Dominion. Local Transportation. The demands on the local transport services (rail, steamer, and coach) in connection with th c concentration and final leave of Reinforcements, the evacuation of the, training-camps on the cessation of hostilities., and the despatch of invalided troops to their homes, &c, have been fully met without serious difficulty, despite restricted facilities during the period. The continued assistance of the railway and steamship authorities in this direction calls for clue appreciation. Very heavy demands continue to bo made on these local transport facilities in connection with the return and demobilization of the Expeditionary Force. The repatriation of from four to five thousand returned troops monthly as occasion has demanded has, however, been handled without undue inconvenience tinder the circumstances, and the pressure in this direction must of course continue till return and demobilization of our troops overseas is completed. The four-weeks privilege tickets over all lines granted to the soldiers after return naturally increases largely the demands on railway travelling facilities. The concessions on current fares granted, by steamship companies and the majority of coachproprietors throughout the Dominion in connection, with return of soldiers to their homes or when travelling for medical treatment continue to be of material assistance to the Department in largely reducing the cost of transport. Rifle Ranges. The problem of providing adequate facilities for training in rifle shooting is a matter which will require considerable attention in the future. During the war existing facilities have been kept up to date as far as possible. Miniature rifle ranges have been increased throughout the Dominion, and have proved of great service in the preliminary training of the young marksman.

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Oversea Transport per Troopships and Hospital Ships. Despite the adverse shipping conditions existing throughout the year, it was possible up to the Armistice to regularly despatch our Reinforcements overseas and at the same time maintain return of invalids requiring repatriation. Since the Armistice the Dominion has been fortunate in securing a large number of ships, and repatriation has been carried out smoothly and expeditiously. The numbers carried, overseas during the year ended 31st May, 1919. are : Reinforcements to the United Kingdom, 5,718 ; Reinforcements to Egypt, 893 ; returned to New Zealand per troopships and liners ; 32,340. In addition to the foregoing numbers of the New Zealand Expeditionary Forces there have also been carried some 980 women and 287 children, comprising the wives and families of returned or deceased New Zealand soldiers, and a small number of New Zealand women war workers (V.A.D.s, &c). Further, small numbers of New-Zealanders ex Imperial Naval and Military Services have also been repatriated during the year by the Imperial Government per many of the vessels concerned. The number returned to New Zealand per New Zealand hospital ships was 2,299. In addition to this the New Zealand hospital ships " Maheno " and " Maratna " have been of great assistance to the Imperial authorities in the carriage of their invalided troops from the East to the United Kingdom during the outward voyage to New Zealand. District Ordnance Depots. During the year the work of the four District Ordnance Officers has been considerably increased. The acceleration of the return of troops subsequent to the cessation of hostilities, the opening and equipping of hospitals, and the educational scheme have all opened up new and important work to be handled in addition to the usual routine. The epidemic caused great dislocation and further hampered our work. The District Ordnance Officers and their respective staffs have risen to the occasion, and are carrying on well. Expeditionary Force Camps. Feaiherston. —The control of the greater part of the administrative work of this camp came under the jurisdiction of the Ordnance Branch subsequent to demobilization on the cessation of hostilities. Since that date the demobilization of Home Service details has proceeded automatically with the decrease of work. The subsidiary camps have been closed, and the buildings at Canvas Camp are being dismantled and removed to Trentham. Encroachments are now under this branch, and steps are being taken by the Ordnance Officer to collect outstanding accounts and place matters on a sound commercial basis. Certain rented areas have been cleared and rendered fit for return to the lessors. Several properties have been returned to the lessors, and the clearance of the remaining areas is in progress. Stores on issue to the Machine-gun School have been transferred in part to Machine-gun School of Instruction at Trentham, the balance being distributed between the four districts. Trentham -—The administrative control of certain portions of this camp was placed under the jurisdiction of the Ordnance Branch. General cleaning up on similar lines as that carried out at Featherston is being proceeded with. A large staff of artisans is employed on the construction of hospital buildings and general alterations to existing buildings. In both camps the demobilization of troops and the subsequent cleaning up, stocktaking, and balancing of ledgers have been proceeded with. Ordnance Workshops, Trentham,. —These workshops have been working at full capacity the whole of the period under review, as will be realized by the fact that 16,000 articles were manufactured or repaired during that time, such articles ranging from coffins to tables. This work was carried out in addition to that in connection with new hospitals, and entailed the use of 344,207 super, feet of timber and 25,278 super, feet of three-ply. A large quantity of musketry equipment and office furniture is manufactured here, thus saving the need to go to the outside market and purchase at inflated prices. Machinery for a second-class Ordnance workshop has been ordered through the High Commissioner, London. Hospital-construction.—On the 9th January, 1919, the Ordnance Branch took over from the Railways and Works Department, Trentham. With the taking-over from that Department was included the maintenance of Trentham. Camp and alterations to several hutments into hospital accommodation. The hospital alterations were as follows : Ten hutments, 22 ft. by 140 ft., lined and converted into hospital wards, with necessary kitchen, Duty Sister's room, and lavatory accommodation ; four and a half hutments into cubicle accommodation for Sisters, Nurses, and V.A.D.s ; dining and sitting rooms for Sisters and V.A.D.s ; also self-contained kitchen for the female staff employed in Trentham Military Hospital. Tn addition to the above, provision has been made for X-ray plant and plaster-room. Alterations have also been effected in the operating-theatre. A new septic tank has been constructed capable of dealing with the sewerage of 1,000 persons. Owing to the difficulty of obtaining skilled carpenters and plumbers the progress of the work has been somewhat slow. Further works have been carried out for educational and vocational training. Huts 114, 115, 116, 117, 143, and 144 have been fitted out for training in carpentry, tailoring, bootmaking, commerical training, book-keeping, basketmaking, leather-work, surgical boots and splint making ; while, in addition, provision is made for teaching acetone welding. Provision is also being made to install a hot-water system for the new hospital quarters. Electric Lighting in Camps. Trentham. —The lighting at this camp is supplied from a steam-driven engine and 100 kw. generator. This lighting-set is in good condition, but the boiler has outlived its usefulness and requires

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to be replaced by an up-to-date boiler (preferably of the Babcock and Wilcox typo) which will give much Jgreater efficiency and an immense saving in fuel. In the meantime the present boiler is being repaired in the hope that same will last out until prices become normal. An Anderson oil-engine and a 22 kw. generator : This set is now working satisfactorily, but consumes too much fuel for the power generated. A 6-horse-power Tangye oil-engine : This is too small to be of much use, as the load is always too large for this set to cope with. Were an accumulative battery installed in place of the auxiliary engines mentioned above, and an up-to-date boiler erected, the power-station could be run efficiently and economically. Featherston. —The plant at this camp is composed of two three-cylinder Westinghousc internalcombustion engines and generators, which are in good order and giving very fair satisfaction ; also a 25-horse-power National gas-engine and generator. This generator is not capable of carrying a full load, but the engine is in good running-order. The amount of current required at this camp is not so great as at Trentham, and the plant is easily able to carry it. Small-arms Ammunition. The Colonial Small-arms Ammunition Company has maintained contract supplies. Mark VII ammunition for new rifles returning to the Dominion with the division can now be supplied. It has been very difficult, owing to the war, to obtain even quality of materials, making it very hard in the past year to conform to specifications laid down. With a return to normal conditions there will be no difficulty in this respect. Small-arms and Small-arm Components. The Dominion has been handicapped as regards components for repairs owing to the impossibility of obtaining same from England. The rifles, M.L.E., on issue to camps and districts show superior condition to the long rifles (M.L.M., Mark 11, and M.L.E., Marks I and I*), the latter type having been obsolete for some years. For this reason rifles, M.L.E., have been converted to charger loading and sighted for Mark VII ammunition. The machine guns throughout the Dominion are in good order owing to a better supply of components being available and the better general supervision in camps. Six hundred rifles, M.L.E., short, -22, have been received and distributed to districts, and three machine guns, Hotchkiss, -303, with spare parts and pack -saddlery, have been issued to the Trentham Machine-gun School. The rifles on issue to the two camps have been distributed to the four districts in accordance with the requirements of the Training Branch as under : Auckland, 753 ; Wellington, 2,163 ; Canterbury, 2,126 ; Otago, 958. Artillery Storks. Garrison. —The equipment of the Garrison Artillery throughout the Dominion is practically complete. The material is in good order, and the armament in a satisfactory state. The accounting for stores is becoming more accurate, and returns are rendered promptly. A large number of B.L. cordite cartridges have been destroyed owing to deterioration, but same can be replaced from stocks of material in hand. The annual indents upon the War Office are now due, and, when indication as to the new scheme of coast defence is given, can be submitted almost immediately. Field. —Accounting is satisfactory except for the fact that indenting officers continue to indent, in excess of schedules laid down. The whole of the Field Artillery equipment at Featherston Military Camp has been distributed to the four districts. About 3,000 rounds of Q.F. ammunition have been made up during the year, and 1,000 rounds altered to conform with later specifications. The annual proof of percussion fuzes, friction tubes, &c, has been successfully carried out. Defence Electric-light Storks. Demands to complete equipment of Defence lights at the four centres were made on Woolwich in 1918, and most of the equipment demanded has been received and issued. The equipment as authorized for each set of Defence lights is now complete with trifling exceptions, and is of service pattern, except that some of the electric-light generators are run by means of steam-engines instead of oil — i.e., internal-combustion engines. The, electric-light projector and reflector on issue to the Dunedin Station is of old type, and should be replaced by the latest pattern of Fortrose Electric-light projector and reflector if it is decided to retain a Defence light at this station. The Electric-light Stores Ledgers of the R.N.Z.A. Detachments are, kept in a satisfactory manner, the annual audit of these ledgers calling for few observations. Engineer Stores. As pointed out in last year's report, the store accommodation provided for Engineer Territorial units in each district is inadequate and unsuitable, and the care of the stores on charge is not satisfactory. The provision of suitable buildings for stores on sites clear of drill-halls, and the appointment of storemen for care of the stores on issue, must shortly be dealt with. Divisional Signal Companiks (Four). Owing to the closing of the Reinforcement Signalling Instruction School at Featherston a large; quantity of signalling stores became available, and have been distributed between the four Signalling Companies for training purposes. Each company is now supplied with the latest pattern of field telephone and field telephone equipment, but is handicapped in its training for want of cable-wagon

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stores for laying field telegraph cable. It would not, however, be advisable to issue the cable-wagons and stores required until the store accommodation referred to above is provided. Wagons are not available at present, but same will be received on arrival of the divisional equipment from abroad. Field Engineer Companies (Four). The technical equipment now on issue to these companies is sufficient to enable preliminary training being carried out. Vehicles, harness and saddlery, and bridging stores are, however, required for advanced training, and should be supplied when store accommodation is provided, but not till then. This material will, however, come to hand with our divisional equipment. A supply of guncotton 'slabs and primers, lately received from Woolwich for use of these companies in demolition work, is now stored in the magazine at Kaiwarra. As the Railway Department refuses to carry guncotton wet or dry, it becomes a difficult matter to supply out-stations with these explosives. Signal Troops (Four). These signal troops are supplied with the latest pattern of field telephone and telephone equipment. Pack wireless is included in their equipment, but has not yet been supplied. The telephone equipment on issue is designed for carrying partly on the person and partly on the Universal saddle. Post and Telegraph Corps. A small supply of technical stores consisting of field telephones, field electric cable, and telegraph instruments have lately been supplied to this corps for training. No technical equipment has yet been approved for this corps. Railway Battalion. This battalion has a supply of artificers' tools, entrenching-implements, and bridging-material. No technical equipment for the Railway Battalion has yet been approved. Two Quartermastersergeants have been appointed battalion from this corps. Units other than the Above. As disclosed by the District Boards, the accounting, care, and custody of stores by units has, in the main, been unsatisfactory in the past. Units have not realized their responsibilities as far as the provisions of paras. 25, [26, and 35, Regulations for New Zealand Military Forces, are concerned. The Adjustment Board have now reduced matters to a working basis, and it is hoped that the future audit of accounts will disclose few if any deficiencies. It is, however, evident that the storage accommodation for Groups and units is inadequate —in fact, in many instances Groups have no accommodation where stores can be locked up. Boot Section. The total quantity of boots received from manufacturers during the period under review was 51,693 pairs ; shoes (deck), 6,552 pairs. When drawing up specifications for the supply of boots for 1918 it was recognized that several alterations were necessary to render the boots more comfortable, and durable than those of the 1917 pattern. Special fittings were placed on the toes of all military lasts used by manufacturers to render that portion of the boots more roomy, and also short stout puffs were introduced, with the result that no complaints whatever were received regarding undue pressure on the toes of the wearer. A special tannage of sole leather suitable for military work was also obtained, and by test of wear gave every satisfaction. The total number of boots rejected during this period was 95 pairs. The majority of boots rejected were discarded for minor faults only, no case being observed where manufacturers had deliberately attempted to depart from specifications, the deliveries as a whole being, both in workmanship and material, well up to the standard required. During the past twelve months shipments of boots (ankle) comprising 42,900 pairs, and shoes (deck), 14,000 pairs, were forwarded to England for the purpose of equipping returning members of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force before leaving for New Zealand. This was found to be necessary on account of the shortage of military footwear in England at the time. In connection with demands made in New Zealand, the following distributions were made : Boots (ankle, regulation), 29,886 pairs ; boots (light and special), 68 pairs; shoes (deck), 9,845 pairs. It is gratifying to observe that although these largo quantities of boots were subjected to a severe test during the past wet seasons, no serious complaints whatever were received regarding the comfort or stability of the footwear supplied. The present stock of boots (ankle, regulation) in store comprises 5,092 pairs, shoes (deck) 7,684 pairs, which is sufficient for present requirements. Boot-repair Factory. During the past twelve months the output from the boot-repair factory has been equal to all demands made on it, all repairs required for Trentham and Featherston Camps, Somes Island, and districts being properly effected. The total quantity of boots repaired from the fst June, 1918, to the 31st May, 1919, is 12,709 pairs, at an average cost of ss. Id. per pair. There were also 713 pairs of shoes (deck) repaired during this period, at an average cost of Is. 7d. per pair. All material used in repairing boots and shoes was of the highest quality obtainable, and the results given in wear proved to be highly satisfactory. Before repairing, all boots are thoroughly disinfected by immersion in a solution of kerol and water. They are then pulled on perfect-fitting lasts, necessary repairs are carried out, and also the sizes stamped on the soles. The next process is cleaning and blocking. This is done in the following manner : The boots are pulled on perfect-fitting followers, and the uppers thoroughly washed in a mixture of soap and lukewarm water. While the leather is in a mellow state all creases and wrinkles in the uppers are rubbed out, and the boots are then put

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aside for twenty-four hours' drying. After this period the uppers are thoroughly treated with dubbin, which not only penetrates the pores of the leather (thus rendering them watertight), but also has a mellowing effect upon the uppers, making them equal in pliability to those of new boots. The boots are then taken off the followers anel placed in storage-bins ready for use. After this treatment the boots are in excellent condition both from a serviceable and sanitary point of view. There are at present 4,600 pairs of boots treated in this manner, and these figures will be added to (approximately) at the rate of forty pairs daily until the present stock of boots in store for repairs (estimated, after allowing for rejections, at 4,000 pairs) is exhausted. During the past year two crippled returned soldiers were trained in boot-repairing, and are now making a success in civil life. Three more men have been sent up by the Repatriation Department, and it is hoped they will take a keen interest in the work and thus re-establish themselves in civil life. There is room for four more men, but as yet the Repatriation Department has not been able to supply same. Miscellaneous Stores. Our supplies of miscellaneous stores have been reduced to a minimum consistent with estimated requirements, and, generally speaking, we are in a safe position. All tentage is at the disposal of the Public Health Department, but it is anticipated that it will shortly be released. Clothing. The deliveries of all garments during this period have been most satisfactory. The complaints have been practically nil, and great credit is due to.the various manufacturers for the good work that was delivered. The patterns for greatcoats and jackets, S.D., supplied to the contractors, so that uniformity in fit could bo obtained, were all that could be desired, and materially helped to produce the smart effect that was noticeable in the uniforms. The condition of stock in the Department is good, and no sign of moth is visible. The hospital clothing and linen issued to the various hospitals has been of a very good quality. The, practice of obtaining supplies of linen, shirting, pillow-cotton, and Turkey twill towels from manufacturers at Home has enabled the Department to supply a good hard-wearing article, and saved the Department a great deal in cost as against local purchase. In one item, sheeting, the Department is saved at least 2s. per yard. During the period it was found necessary to cancel part supplies of grey blankets, 11/4. size, and substitute white blankets, 10/4, for hospital purposes. This has been the means of enabling the Department to issue a blanket for hospital that is second to none. This blanket has three red lines

down the centre to enable it to be identified as Government property. The installation of the power plant in the Sail-makers' Section has been of great use to the Department, and during this period a vast quantity of goods has been made up, such as sheets, slips (pillow), neckerchiefs, cloths (table), &c. During this period, as a result of the cessation of hostilities, the Department's stock of belts (cholera) totalled 19,850, which at first appeared to be dead stock, but these have been put to good use in the manufacture of shirts (flannel, hospital) and drawers (flannel). The cost of this work is 2s. 6d. per garment, which includes the unpicking of the belts—no easy task. This innovation has proved a success, and has enabled the Department to put to good use articles which were considered as useless. Three belts are required to make each flannel shirt, and two belts are required to make each pair flannet drawers. New flannel shirts cost 10s. 6d. each, and drawers Bs. 6d. each. Mattress-protectors : It was considered advisable to take steps to protect the kapok mattresses from damage owing to the wires on beds rusting from perspiration, and to this end some 1,500 blankets made from cotton, and which were, not considered suitable for issue, were converted into mattress-protectors by the Sailmakers' Section. Hats (felt), renovation of : This article has been put to good use, the cost of renovation being 35., which includes new leather chin-straps, also restocking and cleaning of hood, which work has been most satisfactorily performed. To date some 1,500 hats have been subjected to renovation, thus enabling the Department to reissue hats which in the past were not considered suitable. Rknovation of Garments. The work of renovation of garments has again been a complete success during the year. This scheme has been the means of putting to good use articles which formerly would not have been used again. All garments are thoroughly disinfected when being laundered, and all fear of contagion is done away with. For the purpose of pocketing, a good quantity of condemned denims were disposed of to the contractor at a price satisfactory to the Department—viz., £302 3s. 6d. If disposed of as produce this material, woidd have only realized £54 12s. 4d., thus showing a credit to the Department of £247 lis. 2d. Greatcoats : This article, which is thoroughly washed, disinfected, renovated, and made practically a new garment for the sum of 65., is a great saving to the Department, bearing in mind that new coats cost £2 10s. It will be seen that a saving of £2 4s. is effected. Jackets, S.D. : This garment is thoroughly examined; new sleeves, pockets, stays, collar, and linings are put in, thereby making a first-class job and enabling the Department to issue a garment equivalent to new at a cost of 7s. 6d., as against £1 10s., the cost of the new article, the saving involved being £1 2s. 6d. each garment.

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Trousers, S.D. : New band-linings, pocket, crutch-piece, fly, and button-catch are fitted in the renovation process at a cost of 4s. The new garment would cost 175., and the saving effected is thus 13s. Pantaloons : New band-lining, two pockets, crutch-piece, fly, and button-catch and buttons resewn at a cost of Is. 6d, The new garment would cost £1 25., and tin; saving effected is 17s. 6d. Putties : Laundered and made equal to new for the sum of 6(3. per pair. Original cost, 6s. ; saving effected, ss. 6d. Soiled ends are cut off, new pieces rejoined, thus utilizing the article to the best advantage. Shirts, work : New collar-bands are fitted, buttons resewn, and garments made equal to new at, a cost of Is. Id. Original cost, Bs. ; saving effected, 6s. lid. Shirts, under : Buttons resewn a.nd garment thoroughly washed and disinfected at a cost of 9d. Original cost, 6s. ; saving effected, ss. 3d. Pants, under : New crutch-piece, new tape, buttons resewn, laundered and disinfected at a cost of fs. Original cost, 6s. ; saving effected, ss. Jerseys : This article is put to good use and laundered at a cost of 7d., and holes darned at a cost of Id. per hole. Original cost, Bs. ; saving, 7s. sd. The attached schedule shows the number of garments received for the above period, cost of renovation of same, also the cost of new garments:—

Clothing shipped Overseas. During this period the New Zealand Expeditionary Force in the United Kingdom were supplied with —Jackets, 25,000 ; trousers, 15,040 ; shirts, work, 42,952 ; shirts, under, 18,056 ; drawers, pairs, 18,015; jerseys, 24,760; socks, pairs, 39,068; putties, pairs, 15,096; boots, pairs, 42,900; shoes, pairs, 14,000. The Forces in Egypt were supplied with —Jackets, 2,000. The total value of these articles was £153,600. The Epidemic. In November last during the epidemic that had such terrible effects on the populace of this city every assistance was given by the Ordnance Department to the civil community in the way of equipping temporary hospitals. To cope with the need for hospital accommodation, temporary hospitals were opened in some half-dozen buildings. All were equipped by the Ordnance Department, and the staff are to be congratulated for the way they rose to the occasion and worked night and day. Organization. During the year the strength of the New Zealand Army Ordnance Corps has increased materially. This was due to the taking-over of the camps and the rush of work consequent on demobilization, In recruiting for the corps, and in accordance with para. 28, Regulations for Ordnance Services (N.Z.). preference is given to returned soldiers. Eleven Staff Sergeants have been seconded for duty as Quartermaster-Sergeants with units, and Ordnance is filling all vacancies as they occur. Laundry-work. Laundry-work on the Department's behalf throughout the Dominion is on a satisfactory basis. The contracts are let by competitive tenders, and contractors are required to comply with the Department's conditions, which leave no loophole for careless work. Tin; laundry-work in Wellington has reached great proportions in connection with the renovation of clothing.

Article. Number. Cost New. Cost of Renovation. Saving. Jackets, S.D. . . Trousers, S.D.. . Pantaloons Greatcoats Warmers, M.S. Putlies, pairs .. 14,910 10,190 603 14,380 i 438 i 1,849 £ s. d. 1 10 0 22,365 0 0 0 17 0 8.661 10 0 1 2 0 663 6 0 2 11 6 38,285 2 0 0 6 0 554 14 0 0 8 0 4,686 8 0 0 8 0 6.929 4 0 0 6 0 5,194 10 0 0 6 0 4.872 0 0 £ s. d. I 0 7 6 I 5.591 5 0 I 0 4 0 I 2,038 0 0 I 0 A 6 I 135 13 6 i 0 6 0 I 4,460 8 0 I 0 0 6 I 48 A 6 I 0 0 7 I 341 14 4 I 0 11 I 938 6 7 I 0 0 9 I 619 6 3 I 0 10 i 812 0 0 £ s. 16,763 L5 6.623 10 527 12 33,824 14 508 10 d. 0 0 6 0 0 Jerseys 11,716 4,344 13 8 Shirts, working 17,323 5.990 17 5 Shirts, under .. 17,315 4,543 3 9 Drawers, woollen •16,240 4,060 0 0 Total.. 77,186 16 4

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Produce. The Department still continues to earn good revenue from the sale of waste products. During the period under review the sum of £3,520 2s. lid. has been paid to the Public Account in respect of sales effected in this connection. WAR ACCOUNTS. The work of the War Expenses Branch, which steadily grew with the despatch of each draft of Reinforcements, reached very heavy proportions, and, since the signing of tin; Armistice, has heavily increased owing to the large drafts of men returning to the Dominion in quick succession. The increase in staff necessitated by the handling of the pay accounts of these large numbers of returning troops has rendered necessary the provision of additional accommodation, and the larger portion of the staff has now been transferred to the new building in Whitmore Street. In appointing fresh staff preference has in all cases been given to returned soldiers, a largo number of whom are|now employed in this office. Soldiers' Accounts. During the voyage to New Zealand the pay-books of the men are carefully checked with the active-service ledger cards, and the men are paid up to date of arrival, with a further advance on disembarkation of approximately £10 to officers and £5 to other ranks, which amounts cover a portion of the twenty-eight days' demobilization leave given after disembarkation. The active-service ledger cards are then checked with the Base Pay Ledgers, and the full amounts due to the soldiers are posted approximately ton days after their arrival. The large number of men returning each month to be dealt with in this manner has necessarily thrown a very heavy strain upon the ledger staff, which has had to be increased considerably to meet requirements. When demobilization has been completed there will be a gradual easing off of the staff. In my last report reference was made to a proposed alteration in the system of keeping the accounts of soldiers abroad. The arrangements for this change having been completed, however, simultaneously with the signing of the Armistice, it was not advisable to put the scheme into operation, as the cost of the change over would, under the new circumstances, have been too great, and, on account of the migration of troops to New Zealand, the results anticipated would have been negligible. Matters regarding pay of troops en route and after arrival in New Zealand have been so arranged as to meet the altered circumstances. Allotments. The issue of warrants for allotments and dependants' allowances since January last shows a gradual decrease as the troops return. The number of warrants issued in November, 1918, was 61,670 ; in March, 1919, 40,424 ; and in May, 1919, 25,486. Soldiers' Remittances. The Department still performs a large volume of work in arranging remittances to and from soldiers, there being a large demand from the soldiers or relatives in New Zealand for remittances to cover expenses during furlough leave prior to departure from England. The total amount remitted to the Staff Paymaster to the 31st May, 1919 (including deposits with the Staff Paymaster by banking institutions, &c, in London) was £373,717 ; while the remittances from soldiers to relatives and others in New Zealand, United Kingdom, &c, to the 31st May, 1919, totalled £34,818 (including cash found in the effects of deceased soldiers, which amounts are included in the balances of pay accounts paid over to legal representatives). In the matter of remitting money to soldiers every assistance was given by the Department to soldiers and relatives in the way of quick despatch. Owing to the heavy demands on cable tra.ffic and the congestion of the lines during the last few months, private messages from soldiers to their friends in New Zealand showed very heavy delay, usually the request reaching New Zealand about a month after the cable was handed in at London. To meet this contingency it was arranged in February last for soldiers to hand in their requests to the Staff Paymaster, London, who included them all in one packed official cable message daily to the War Expenses Branch. This system, which was agreed to by the cablegram companies, had the effect of making the cost of cabling cheaper to the soldiers, and the further advantage of quick despatch and receipt, as, being sent at Government rates, precedence, was obtained over ordinary traffic. Upon the arrival of the daily packed message at tin; War Expenses Branch in Wellington the requests are transmitted to the relatives named in the cable, with full directions as to how the money is to be remitted. This system is giving every satisfaction. Retrospective Married Allowances. Commencement was made in the first week of June with the issue of retrospective married allowances in accordance with the authority given by Cabinet for an amount of £495,000 under this heading. From the sth to the 14th June 4,933 warrants had been despatched, representing a total value of £180,708 Is. 9d, The largest, individual amount issued was £179 Bs., which was payable to the wife of a Lieutenant of the Main Body. Included in the total of £180,708 Is. 9d. issued were 105 payments representing amounts over £100. The largest amount payable in respect of these retrospective allowances is £179 Bs. for a Lieutenant, and £132 3s. for rank and file of the Main Body. Including the graduating smaller amounts payable on account of Reinforcements, the average, amount worked out at about £36. Deceased Soldiers' Estates. The new system of wills instituted by Headquarters, London, has greatly expedited the settlement of deceased soldiers' accounts, as definite information has been received within a few months of the casualty in practically all cases, either (a) forwarding a will, (b) stating by whom a will is held, or (c) forwarding a signed statement that the soldier did not wish to make a will. This has been of

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considerable assistance to the Public Trustee in administering private estates apart from military pay, and has saved the long delays which were unavoidable under the old system of pay-book wills. The Department has again to acknowledge the valuable assistance rendered by the Public Trustee. Rates of Pay. The increased scale of pay for officers and nurses came into force from the Ist April, 1918, and has given satisfaction to these ranks. The issue of arrears of these increases has given the Pay Department a great deal of extra work. The outfit grant to officer's commissioned to the New Zealand Expeditionary Force before the signing of the Armistice, was also increased to £40, while the uniform and upkeep allowance to members of the New Zealand Army Nursing Service was also increased in keeping with the advanced cost to the nurses of equipping themselves. Financial Assistance. The total cost of financial assistance paid to the 31st March, 1919, was £207,155 10s. Id. War-loan Investments. The total amount of investments in war-loan certificates handled by the, Department on account of soldiers serving abroad, to the 31st May, 1919, was £20,000, under a scheme arranged whereby facilities were afforded soldiers to invest in the Dominion's war loans. Regimental Funds. In my last report it was stated that in addition to the sum granted by the Government to form the nucleus of regimental funds for units which were not specially provided for, the, Advisory Board of the Federation of New Zealand. Patriotic War Relief Societies had arranged to remit annually £12,000 for troops in France and £.1,500 for troops in Egypt. The demobilization of the New Zealand Division now obviates the necessity for further remittances. The amounts remitted by the Federation of Patriotic War Relief Societies to 31st May, 1919, were—France, £12,000 ; Egypt, £2,300 : total, £14,300. Apart from these funds, the regimental funds of the various units are sustained by distributions from the profits of divisional and regimental canteens in France and Egypt, and it has been decided that the balances remaining to credit of the regimental funds of these various units will be dealt with by a special Canteen and Regimental Funds Trust Board to be set up. In disposing of these funds the Board is to give effect to any special wishes of the units concerned. Educational and Vocational Training. Upon the evacuation of our troops from France to England, Headquarters New Zealand Expeditionary Force, United Kingdom, made special arrangements for educational and vocational training, so that troops desiring to take up courses for their future, welfare should be given every facility during the period of waiting for embarkation. The training commenced in the United Kingdom is continued on the troopships en route to New Zealand. The sum of £50,000 was authorized by Cabinet for this purpose. The educational and vocational training-system has also been extended to undischarged soldiers who arc patients in hospitals in the Dominion. Hospital Comforts. During the campaigns in Gallipoli and France our soldiers were well looked after in the way of comforts while in hospital. When the casualties first commenced at Gallipoli and the necessity first arose a sum of money was cabled by the Government for this purpose, and has been supplemented from time to time by contributions from the New Zealand Red Cross Society, while various remittances have also been forwarded from Patriotic Societies, Guilds, &c, in New Zealand. The distribution of comforts in Egypt and in the, hospitals in England which were under the control of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force authorities was in the hands of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force Chaplains, while the wants of New-Zoalanders in British hospitals were attended to by the New Zealand War Contingent Association. Since the evacuation of fit men commenced the New Zealand War Contingent Association has placed a sum of money at the disposal of the Officer Commanding Troops on each transport leaving England, for the provision of comforts, prizes for games, &c, during the voyage to New Zealand. The amounts placed on board each ship vary from £25 to £60 in accordance with the number of troops carried ; and, apart from the money spent as prize-money in games, the balance is usually expondeel at Colon in re provisioning with fruit, &c, for the troops. Hospital Treatment of Returned Soldiers. Apart from repatriation, the principal item of expenditure in the future will be that in connection with the, hospital treatment of sick and wounded soldiers, and those discharged soldiers requiring treatment owing to a recurrence of disabilities sustained on active service. The Department has made ample provision to accommodate, all cases, and commitments to the extent of £133,420 have been entered into in providing sanatoria, surgical hospitals, convalescent homes, soldiers' wards at public hospitals, &c, the principal of these being— Sanatoria at Hatuma and Cashmere Hills ; new buildings and extensions at the Rotorua and Hanmer Military Hospitals ; and extensions to the public hospitals at Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Napier, Palmerston North, and Masterton. Expenditure. The total amount appropriated for expenditure for ordinary defence, purposes was £501,697, and the amount expended £416,290.

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The following is a return showing the total war expenditure to the 31st March, 19.19 : — Statement showing Total Am.ount of Expenditure from, War Expenses Account from the Beginning of the War to the 31st March, 1919. Expenditure under section 8 of the Public Revenues Amendment Act, 1914 (war purposes) : — £ g, d. Advertising, printing, office equipment, &c. .. .. .. .. 178,140 16 10 Allowances to wives of Imperial soldiers and Reservists and members of Motor-boat Patrol residing in New Zealand . . .. .. .. 19,965 II 0 Allotments paid through post-offices in United Kingdom .. .. .. 416,900 0 0 Camps, expenses of (including concentrating) .. .. .. .. 816,363 A 7 Canteens on transports .. .. .. .. .. .. Cr. 16,374 12 9 Clerical assistance .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 394,163 4 7 Commissions of inquiry .. .. .. .. .. .. 6,778 14 2 Discharged Soldiers Information Department Expenses and grants .. 20,622 12 6 Distribution of war news and casualty lists in New Zealand .. .. 423,188 0 0 Donations refunded and transferred . . .. .. .. .. 2,759 1 A 3 Educational and vocational training .. . . . . .. .. 650 11 0 Equipment (including purchase of boots, clothing, G.S. wagons, ammunitioncarts, &c.) .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 4,351,640 311 Forage .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 405,966 9 0 Freight on Great Britain and Belgium relief produce .. .. .. 656 16 11 Grants to regimental funds . . . . .. . . .. .. 3,699 0 0 Grants to soldiers'hostels .. .. .. .. .. .. 17,277 13 10 Grants to War Contingent Association for assistance to fit men on leave in England .. .. .. '.. .. .. .. 4,500 0 0 Half-cost of reinsurance of death benefits of members of friendly societies serving with the Expeditionary Force .. .. .. .. 7,422 9 5 Home defence (forts, harbour patrols, examination of steamers, guarding cables, wireless stations, railway picquets) .. .. .. .. 389,442 15 0 Hospital ship " Maheno " .. .. .. .. 485,900 9 2 Hospital ship " Marama " .. .. .. .. .. .. 507,900 16 11 Maintenance of indigent enemy subjects . . .. . . . . 102 10 0 Mechanical transport (including motor-cars, bicycles, oil for motors, &c.) . . 53,909 4 0 Medals and decorations .. .. ... .. .. .. 62 14 1 Medical (including fees, equipment of hospitals, field hospitals and ambulances, surgical instruments, comforts, &c.) .. .. .. .. 1,224,109 810 Military Service Act —Expenses of administration (including Recruiting, Military Service, and Medical Boards) .. .. .. .. 286,759 19 3 National Efficiency Board —Administrative expenses .. .. .. 15,872 14 3 New Zealand Munitions and Supplies Department .. .. .. 18,479 5 3 Pay and allowances .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 24,976,347 13 3 Per capita payments to War Office for maintenance of New Zealand troops infield, ammunition, extra transport, &c. .. .. .. .. 15,735,000 0 0 Postage, telegrams, telephones (including preparing war-news cables for despatch to New Zealand from the United Kingdom, and cable, charges thereon) 197,690 5 9 Prisoners of war .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 102,495 18 9 Purchase of horses .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 195,081 17 0 Rations .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 2.114,677 7 5 Soldiers' Financial Assistance Board Expenses and grants .. .. 219,035 2 8 Superannuation paid by Government on behalf of Civil servants serving with the Expeditionary Force .. .. .. .. .. .. 108,501 10 3 Transport of troops (including charter of steamers, meals of men travelling to join, freight, carriage, &c.) .. .. .. .. .. 6.063,685 18 0 Travelling expenses and allowances .. .. .. .. .. 14,157 13 9 War bonus to civil and military staff .. .. .. .. .. 38,877 14 10 Wanganui Detention Barracks. . .. .. .. .. .. 3,125 14 3 Total for war purposes .. .. .. .. 59.805.537 1 11 Relief purposes .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 268,438 15 8 Charges and expenses of raising loans .. .. .. .. .. 658,746 11 0 Repatriation .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 8, 640 11 9 60,741,363 0 4 Imprests outstanding — £ a- d. New Zealand .. .. .. .. .. 75,176 12 3 London .. .. .. .. .. .. 1,820,180 14 4 1,895,357 6 7 Grand total of expenditure .. .. .. ..£62,636,720 611 ARMY SERVICE CORPS. The Army Service Corps is at present considerably below establishment, due to enlistments in the New Zealand Expeditionary Force. It has been impossible, in spite of every effort being made,

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to bring units up to establishment, the constant drain through enlistments in the New Zealand Expeditionary Force being the cause. The annual Territorial camps were not held during the past year. Supplies for Training-champs. The supplies for the various training-camps throughout the Dominion were purchased through the Munitions and Supplies Department, or by contracts arranged by the Director of Supplies and Transport or Assistant Director of Supplies and Transport in each district. The issuing and accounting for all supplies is undertaken by the Army Service Corps, and the result generally shows an improvement on past years. Very careful attention has been paid to the accounting for the containers in which supplies have been received. During the period of three years ending 30th April, 1919, the amount realized by containers, &c, accounted for and sold is as follows : — £ s. d. Sacks .. .. .. .. .. 141.273 3.889 17* 3 Benzine and kerosene cases .. .. .. 6,033 124 1.1 t 5 Coffee-tins .. .. .. .. 1,128 28 17 0 Butter-boxes.. .. .. ■ .. .. 18.670 390 17 1 Casks and jars . . . . . . . . 32 7 19 0 Tea lead . . . . .. .. . . 5| tons 154 4 4 Baling-wire .. .. .. .. .. 3J tons 62 14 8 Bottles .. .. .. .. .. 1,236 dozen. 53 14 5 £1.712 15 2 All contracts have been well executed, and the quality of supplies was good. Canteens. The canteens, barbers' shops, and restaurant at Featherston, Tauherenikau, and Papawai Camps, which were taken over and run by the Department from the 15th November, 1917, have been controlled by a Camp Canteen Committee, and have been a great success. The canteen at Trentham Camp was similarly taken over as from the Ist November, 1918. The goods for these canteens were obtained in conjunction with the Munitions and Supplies Department. The results generally by the Department taking over the. canteens have been most satisfactory. Rations and Forage. The scales of rations now in force in New Zealand are as follows :

4—H. 19.

Item. Reinforcements, Mobilized Troops, First-class Prisoners of War. Maor s and Islander , r .. . , ,, D . i I erntorial Camps. K, mtorcements. ' Bread or .. Biscuits or Flour lilb 1 lb 1 lb. Ulb lilb. lib. .. .. lib. 1 lb. .. .. 1 lb. Fresh meat or Preserved meat or .. Fish Li lb 1 lb. lb. .. .. Ulb. lib. .. .. lib. 21b. Sausages Bacon Cheese Coffee Jam 8oz.* 5 oz.| 2 oz. £ oz. 4 oz. 8 oz.* 5 oz.f 2 oz. . . . . 2 oz. ' i oz. .. .. | oz. 4 oz. .. 4 oz. Fresh milk or Condensed milk I pint $ tin -| pint . . • ■ 2 pint. i tin .. .. j tin. Flour Baking-powder Oatmeal Onions Fresh vegetables . . Potatoes oz. 3 lb. each 100 lb. flour 1 oz. 4 oz. 8 oz. I lb. (new) 1 lb. (old) .. \ oz. 4 oz. f oz. 4 oz. fa oz. * oz I- oz. If oz. 4oz. 4 oz. A 08. .. •• 1 oz. weekly in lieu of jam 11 oz. . . . . 1 oz. 31b. each 1001b. Hour 31b. each 1001b. flour. 1 oz. .. . . 2 oz. 4 oz. .. .. 2 oz. 8 oz. li lb. .. .. f lb. (new). 1 lb. (old). A oz. .. .. \ oz. 5 oz. .. 4 oz. | oz. .. • • I oz - 3 oz. .. .. 4 oz. fa oz. .. .. fa oz. 4 oz. f oz. foz. f oz. 4 oz. /j-OZ. 1 oz. weekly in lieu of jam Salt" Sugar Tea Butter Pepper Dried fruits J Rice Currants Tapioca, Sago Curry-powder Treacle * Twice weekly in lieu of equiva) fresh meat. 1 Dried fruits to cr lent amount of fresh meat. t Twico weekly; o oz. bacon equivalent to 10 oz" msist of prunes, peaches, or evaporated apples.

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Extras for Men in CI Gamp. Cocoa .. .. .. .. .. i oz. Sugar .. .. .. .. | oz. Fresh milk or .. .. .. • • 1 pint. Condensed milk . . .. • ■ to tin. Biscuits (ration) .. . . .. As required. The following scales of rations are in force for (a) soldiers undergoing detention, (b) second-class prisoners of war: —

♦Cheese, 4 oz., or rice, 28 oz., in lieu of fresh moat once weekly (optional). If both cheese and rice required, then 1 oz. cheese is equal to 7 oz. rice. t Or equivalent amount of |>cas or beans. In each instance the items are a daily issue unless otherwise stated. In addition to the ration-scale for annual Territorial camps, which is not quite so comprehensive as the scales for Reinforcement camps, an allowance of 2d. per man per diem is granted, and is 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. No complaint regarding the quality or quantity of the rations was received. The scale of forage rations for the Expeditionary Force and Territorial training-camps is as follows :— Expeditionary Force training-camps : Chaff, 12 lb. ; hay, 6 lb. ; bran, \\ 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 is left to the discretion of officers commanding units to use. whichever scale they think most fitting. An additional 2 lb. of oats is allowed for draught heuses. The following gives the average cost of rations and forage per head per diem at the Expeditionary Force training-camps :—

Item. Soldiers undergoing Detention. Second-class Prisoners of War. Bread l2o/„ 16 oz. Fresh meat or . . Preserved meat12 oz. 12 oz.* 6 oz. Coffee Jam Fresh milk Condensed milkFlour Oatmeal Fresh vegetables Potatoes Salt .. Sugar' Tea Butter J pint 2 oz. 8 oz. 16 oz. I oz. 2oz. 1 oz. I oz. 1 oz. 2oz. fa tin. 1 oz. 2 oz.f 4 oz. 20 oz. | oz. 2 oz. i oz. 11 oz. fa oz. Pepper

Camp. Month. Ration per Diem. Fuel, Light, and Straw per Man per Diem. Forage per Horse per Diem. Featherston Drentham .. 1918—April May June July August September October November December 1919—January February March .,.' 1918-April May June July August September October November December 1919 —January February March s. d. 1 4-842 I 5-673 1 4-589 1 4-382 I 5-618 1 5-233 1 6-491 I 6-048 1 2-180 1 1 -890 1 1-586 1 2-308 1 4-800 1 4-750 1 4-720 1 4-640 1 5-790 1 5-530 I 6-560 1 5-950 I 6-490 1 7-832 1 8-251 1 7-482 d. 0-599 0-785 0-686 0-789 0-863 0-810 0-854 0-888 0-563 0-629 0-607 0-393 0-650 0-590 0-720 0-600 0-758 0-550 0-480 1-010 0-627 0-660 0-720 1-644 s. d. 2 7-416 2 9-428 2 9-877 2 10-801 2 11-268 2 7-414 2 5-297 2 3-186 0 10-640* 0 6-229* 0 6-429* 0 9-935 2 7-360 2 5-660 2 6-750 2 8-370 2 9-810 2 6-990 2 5-470 2 11-150 2 0-180 2 4-567 0 9-755* 2 8-703 [rentham * Horses out [raaini

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Field Transport. The carting of all supplies, stores, &c, at headquarters of districts, Wellington, and Expeditionary Force, camps is carried out by the, New Zealand Army Service Corps. Since the last report mechanical transport has been installed at Auckland and Hanmer, and the Department has now some thirty lorries and cars in use. At Wellington, where the carting is very great, mechanical transport only will be used in future. Far better results are being obtained than by horse transport. Field Cooking. Field cookers were used, supplemented by trench cooking. Field Bakeries. The Army Service Corps bakeries established at Trentham and Featherston Camps continue to supply the bread for these camps. The quality of the bread is excellent. The following gives the quantity of bread produced, and cost of same :—

This cost of production is based on all expenditure, including cost of buildings. There is no doubt that the establishment of these bakeries has been the means of saving the Department some thousands of pounds, whilst at all times ensuring ample supplies of most excellent bread. Supplies for New Zealand Expeditionary Force, England. During the period Ist April, 1918, to 31st May, 1919, the following supplies were shipped to England for use of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force in the United Kingdom : Peas, 84,124 lb. ; haricot beans, 99,425 lb. ; bacon, 291,817 lb. ; ' jam, 700,068 lb. ; sugar,' 887,040 lb. ; oatmeal, 225,0001b.; condensed milk, 773,088 tins; preserved meat, 268,8001b.; flour, 524,0501b.; butter. 224,0001b.; cheese, 11.4,640 lb. ; tea, 36,4811b.; matches, 1,200 gross boxes; sweets, assorted, 7,952 lb. ; biscuits, mixed, 14,293 lb. , tinned fruit, 33,280 tins ; tobacco, Havelock, 6,060 lb. These supplies were purchased through the Munitions and Supplies Department, the Army Service Corps taking delivery and being responsible, for the, quality of all supplies delivered. These supplies have been landed in England at a very much less cost than the rates ruling there, and as a consequence the cost of maintenance of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force in England has.been materially decreased, and the rations there augmented. The supplies sent are all of first quality, and, though shipments have been going on for the past three years and a half, the reports received on the outturn of the supplies have been satisfactory. The sending of supplies to England ceases from the end of June. VETERINARY SERVICES AND REMOUNTS. During the year the work of this branch of the service has been very much reduced in volume as a result of the cessation of shipments of remounts, due to lack of shipping facilities. The Remount Depot previously established at Upper Hutt was closed on the Bth April, 1918, and its personnel transferred to Tauherenikau, where a small Remount Depot was established for the purpose of dealing with remount work in connection with the training-camps. In November, 1918,. on the breaking-up. of these training-camps, steps were taken to wind up the work of the Remount Depot, and to dispose of the horses which had been used for training purposes in the camps. At the sales held for this purpose 287 horses were sold, and these realized an average price of £13 10s., which in the circumstances was very satisfactory, seeing that many of the riding-horses were showing the effects of the hard work entailed by training purposes on the stony ground in the neighbourhood of the Featherston Camp. At the outbreak of war no recognized Remount Depot existed, and consequently one had to be brought into being. It was. first established at Palmerston North, on the Showgrounds, which were kindly lent for the, purpose by the Agricultural and Pastoral Association, but was shortly afterwards transferred to Upper Hutt, where it remained until, as above stated, it .was finally established at Tauherenikau. During the period of the war the total number of horses passing through the depot was 9,347. It should be noted that at the first mobilization temporary depots were established at Christchurch and Dunedin, and a number of the horses belonging to the Main Expeditionary Force were dealt with at those depots only. Of the 9,347 horses dealt with at the central depot, 5,097 were riding-horses and 4,250 artillery and transport horses. The average price paid for riding-horses was £17 Is. 10d., and for artillery and transport horses £24 10s. In addition

Camp. Bread produoed. Total Cost. Cost- per 4 |h. Trentham Featherston . . lb. £ s. d. 2,943,400 22,213 16 0 3.516,414 25,448 1 II d. 7-380 6-944 Total 6,459,814 47,661 17 II 7-080 I ;

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to the horses purchased a large number was presented to the Government, and, though some of these could not be utilized for active service on account of unsuitability, 1,334 were accepted and utilized. The original Remount Depot at Palmerston North was in charge-of Captain W. G. C. Smith, but on that officer leaving for active service in Egypt in December. 1914. Captain R. ('. Tilley assumed control, and retained it to the end. New Zealand Horses on Active Service. Only a comparatively small number of New Zealand horses were used on active service in France, the, bulk of those sent from the Dominion being attached to the army operating from Egypt as a base. In the Egyptian and Palestine campaigns these horses are reported to have done excellent work, and the New Zealand Mounted Brigade was never withdrawn from the line on account of its horses being unlit for duty, this in spite of the fact that the average weight carried during operations would not be less than 20 stone, and that the mounted men have on several occasions covered a distance of from thirty to thirty-five miles in one night. In addition, the horses at times had to go for thirty-six hours without water -and on two occasions from forty-eight to sixty hours —with a day temperature of from 110° to 120". At the, end of October, 1917, after nearly three years' service, of which twenty months were occupied in hard active warfare in the desert, one squadron had with it 96 Main Body horses out of an original total of 156. When actual casualties in action are allowed for, the percentage, lost or unfit for work as a result of sickness or preventable causes was remarkably small. This may be taken as the fair average experience of the other squadrons in the brigade. Sea Carriage of Horses. The New Zealand horses* carried remarkably well at sea, and of a total of 9,1.88 shipped the loss at sea was only 3 per cent. While, illustrating the stamina and general healthfulness of the, animals, it must be realized that this excellent result was largely contributed to by the skilled attention of the Veterinary Officers in charge, and the general care exercised by the troops detailed for the care of the horses. Pig-farms. In order to utilize to the best advantage waste food at the Trentham Camp a pig-farm was established on land nearby, and placed under the charge of the Remount Officer. This farm proved remarkably successful in every way, and returned a handsome profit to the. Department. Since the cessation of training operations at. Trentham, and the consequent great reduction of the' number of men in the camp, this farm has been much reduced in dimensions, but is still being carried on in a, small way, under the charge of the Supply Officer. Later, a second farm was established at Tauherenikau for the purpose, of utilizing the waste food from the Featherston Camp. This was also under the charge, of the Remount Officer and, like the Trentham farm, returned a very handsome, profit to the Department. Copies of the last balance-sheets of these two farms are attached. Sinees. the breaking-up of the Remount Depot the Tauherenikau pig-farm, already much reduced in dimensions as a result of the cessation of training at Featherston, has been placed under the charge of the Supply Officer. Captain Tilley having been demobilized. Veterinary Services in France and Egypt. The. good work done by the New Zealand Veterinary Staff in France is recognized in a memorandum to Lieut.-General Sir A. Godley from Major-General Moore, Imperial Director of Veterinary Services, reading as follows ;— " Before the demobilization of the New Zealand Division and the New Zealand Section of No. 4 Veterinary Hospital at Calais I should like to express 'my appreciation of the excellent service rendered by the New Zealand Veterinary Corps. " The record of the division from a veterinary point of view all through the war has compared most favourably with other divisions. The difficulties of active service have been surmounted in a highly creditable fashion, and the manner in which officers and other ranks have stuck to their duties is beyond all praise. " No bettor work has been done anywhere than by the small New Zealand Veterinary Hospital attached to No. 4 Veterinary Hospital, Calais. The work carried out has always been of a high standard, and it is a model of efficiency and good order. " I am glad that, the New Zealand Veterinary Corps has had an opportunity of being complete in all matters of veterinary organization in the field, and that it has proved its metal. Without question, it has justly merited the good will and high regard of the, Dominion to which it belongs. Thoroughly identifying itself with the Army Veterinary Service, British Expeditionary Force, the parting is one full of regrets ; at the same time there remains a deep sense of gratitude for all the splendid assistanceit has rendered." The, Veterinary Staff with the Egyptian Force has also done excellent work. After the return of the officers to New Zealand it is hoped to furnish a comprehensive report covering the whole of the work done during the, period of the, war. Farming Operations at Tauherenikau. The Department having acquired the property, consisting of some 570 acres, upon which the Tauherenikau Camp was established, it was decided to carry on vegetable and general farming on that portion of the area not required for camp or for drill purposes. The area devoted to vegetablegrowing was in successful and profitable occupation when the camp was broken up so far as training

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purposes were concerned, but the number of men since then has been too small to warrant the continuance of vegetable-culture on anything like the lines first adopted. The remaining farming operations also paid their way, though much of the work done was of a nature not to be immediately profitable, seeing that it ('(insisted of breaking up rough native-grass pastures and taking off a crop of oats, with the intention of afterwards laving down the paddocks in permanent pasture with English grasses. The result for the year of the farming operations sheiwed a net profit of £130. This farming-work was conducted by the Director of Veterinary Services, in conjunction with the Supply Officer. Expert advice was rendered by the .Horticultural Division of the Department of Agriculture, and it is desired to specially acknowledge this, which proved of very great practical value, and was of material assistance in connection with the work of vegetable-culture. Future Establishmext. After the return of the Veterinary Staff which has been engaged in active service with the Expeditionary Force it is proposed to work out the peace establishment for this branch of the service, and in due course recommendations regarding this will be submitted. WORKS BRANCH: HISTORY FROM INCEPTION. As this matter is highly technical and of general interest it seems advisable to publish verbatim the report by the Director, Colonel E. H. Hiley, who without pay undertook the direction of works. Prior to the outbreak of war there was no organization in the Defence Department for handling construction-works other than through the Public Works Department, nor do I now suggest a permanent Works Section. There is no reason why, for construction-work and larger repairs or alterations, the co-operation of the, Public Works and Defence Departments should not again be reverted to. History of Branch of the Director of Works from Inception to handing over to Ordnance Branch in January, 1919. It is now proposed to detail the steps which led up to the formation of the Works Branch, with a reference to the work performed by that branch in the, Expeditionary Force training-camps at Trentham and Featherston from its inception in July, 1916, to the handing-over to the Ordnance Branch in the months of December, 1918, and January, 1919. Early Stages of Trentham Camp Construction. On the 19th October, 1914, the camp-site at Trentham was for the first time occupied by troops of the Expeditionary Force. At that time there were a few building's in existence (enumerated below), the property of the Dominion Rifle Association, which were taken into use for administrative purposes by the Defence Department, the troops being quartered under canvas. The buildings referred to are as follows : Mess-kitchen and concert-hall, Range Warden's hut, Heaelquarters building, store for rifle-range equipment, post-office building. The ground to the west of the above-mentioned buildings was unstumped and rough. An existing main road was formed from the entrance to the 1,000-yards firing-point on Defence property, but was practically unmetalled. New Temporary Accessories. On the occupation of the camp in October, 1914, by the Expeditionary Force troops the following temporary accessories were provided by the Defence Department, the work being carried out under the supervision of the Camp Commandant : Four cookhouses, eight wash-ups and ablutions, two shower-baths, two latrines, armoury, Army Service Corps store. A proportion of the material used in the construction of the above-mentioned buildings was from discarded deck structures, &c, removed from transports, but the bulk was new material which had to be purchased. Old water-pipe of varying diameters was removed from Matamau Camp and laid from a reservoir constructed by camp labour to the cookhouses, ablutions, and latrines, &c. The drainage effluents were, disposed of by means of field trenches carried to soak-pits. Provision of Hutments. At the commencement of July, 1915, it was decided to construct hutments at Trentham Camp, and in this connection the Government Architect prepared a design for two sample huts, one for officers and one for men. This design was adopted for Trentham Camp, and the construction of the two hutments was put in hand by the Public Works Department, who continued the. construction work on eleven other hutments, two cookhouses, and certain minor accessories already approved. Appointment of Colonel Hiley as Director of Works. On the 22nd -Jul)-, 1915, owing to the absence of reading, means of disposing of storm-water and consequent accumulations of mud, and the inadequate foul drainage-system, the position in regard to. Trentham Camp became so serious that it was found necessary, for medical reasons, to temporarily evacuate the camp. The Defence Department, as a consequence, decided to take over the direction of the various works and the preparation of the designs for the necessary buildings, drainage, water-supply, and accessories required at the Expeditionary Force training-camps at Trentham and Featherston. With this purpose in view Colonel E. H. Hiley, Director of Railway Transport and General Manager of the New Zealand Government Railways, was appointed Director

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of Works and attached to the Headquarters Staff, Defence Department, under date 22nd July, 1915, with the Defence Draughtsman (now the Assistant Director of Works) as an assistant. The object of Colonel ffiley's appointment was to ensure the personal responsibility of a senior military officer, with direct control on behalf of the Defence Department, for all matters pertaining to the design and construction of the various camp buildings and works, both contemplated and in course of construction, and also to ensure that military requirements as defined from time to time were, fully met, and a complete military supervision maintained over the progress of the works and expenditure. The, Public, Works Department continued the immediate supervision of constructional works performed by civil labour, under the direction of the Director of Works. At the- date of the, appointment no plans had been prepared nor any work commenced at Featherston Camp. These plans were, however, under the direction of the, Director of Works, put in hand immediately, and the actual work commenced in August, 1915. Formation of Works Section. On the occupation of Featherston Hutment Camp by the military in March, 1916, the Defence Department decided to eliminate altogether civil labour at both camps and form a Works Section, on Royal Engineer lines, with Colonel Hiley as Director. The formation of this section was completed by the end of March, and the work approved on new services was put in hand at once. A commissioned officer was appointed to control at both camps, but, owing to the heavy increase in constructional work and the provision of subsidiary camps both at Trentham and Featherston, it was found necessary to appoint a qualified Engineer officer to supervise the work, &c, at each camp. This arrangement continued in force with most satisfactory results until demobilization at each camp was complete. The duties of all the officers of the branch are defined in detail in Camp Standing Orders and Camp Routine Orders, as are also the eluties of the responsible non-commissioned officers in charge of power-houses, electrical communications, &c. Method of obtaining Stores and Materials. On the formation of the Works Section the Director of Works arranged that all stores and building-materials required for the carrying-out of services and maintenance would be ordered through the Railway Department Stores Branch, thus eliminating direct purchase from merchants, &c, and ensuring to the Defence, Department lower rates than could be, obtained by direct purchase. In this connection a store.was provided at each camp and a Storeman appointed. The procedure in connection with the control, both at Headquarters of the Works Branch and the Engineer stores in camp, the demanding of, issue, and accounting for all stores, is based upon Royal Engineer procedure and regulations, and has been full} - detailed arid issued to the staffs of the branch concerned. Classification of Works carried out by the Branch of the Director of Works. The works carried out by the Branch of the, Director of Works may be subdivided as follows : — (a.) Maintenance of existing buildings, including making good wilful damage caused by troops. (b.) Construction of new Defence, buildings and accessories approved from time to time, (c.) Supervision of Defence, buildings carried out by contract, including certain military hospitals, &c, outside the camps. Procedure in regard to Finance. Thes procedure in regard to finance was as follows : The Camp Commandant submitted his requirements to Defence Headquarters, where they were examined by the responsible heads, who, after defining the scope of each scheme or service, forwarded the final proposals to the Director of Works for the purpose of preparing plans and estimates. The plans, &c., when prepared were submitted to Defence Headquarters for both military and medical approval, and on this being obtained an application was maele by the Director of Works (under arrangement) direct to the Hon. Minister of Defence, with his recommendation, setting forth in detail the necessity of the, requirements, with a final estimate of cost and a request for allotment of funds. The plans and estimates referred to were in the first instance, in the case of minor services, prepared by the Works Engineer Officer at the camp concerned, but were examined and checked at the Works Branch Headquarters prior to the application for funds being submitted. The Cabinet approval for the expenditure, when received, was forwarded to War Expenses Branch to note, and at the same time the particulars were entered in the Works Branch Expense Ledger. The General Officer Commanding and Camp Commandant were advised when approval had been received. All material and stores for each particular service was ledgered against the, particular item, and the issues of material entered upon the tally-cards in the store. Issues were not made except upon the requisition of the Military Foreman of Works. These requisitions, on completion, were forwarded weekly to the Works Branch Headquarters, where, they were entered in a loose-leaf ledger, thus ensuring that Headquarters had a. complete check upon the local issues at the camps. At the close of each period for billing accounts to the Railway Stores Accountant, a statement of the completed services was prepared and submitted to the Hon. Minister of Defence, QuartermasterGeneral, and Officer in Charge War Expenses Branch, showing in detail the amounts authorized for each service, the actual expenditure, and the savings or excesses on each item, A weekly report was furnished by the Camp Works Engineer Officers, showing in detail the progress on all works and labour employed on each item, &c, on Form G. 71. A separate weekly return was also furnished for the, shifts, &c, carried out by the power-house staffs. This return was vised by the Honorary Advisory Mechanical Engineer to the Defence Department,

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Honorary Advisory Mechanical Engineer. A general technical supervision under the direction of the Director of Works over both of the power-house staffs, plant, and machinery at Trentham and Featherston Camps was exercised by Mr. G. A. Pearson, A.C.M.E., New Zealand Government Railways, who placed his services at the disposal of the- Defence Department in an honorary capacity. Mr. Pearson ceased to act in the capacity specified above on the control of the Works Section in the camps being taken over by the Ordnance Branch. Honorary Fire Inspector. In order that the fire-prevention of both Trentham and Featherston Camps should be placed upon a satisfactory footing Captain Hugo, Dominion Fire Inspector, was appointed as Honorary Fire Inspector to the Defence Department, with the result that all the recommendations made in the direction of fire-prevention were promptly carried out by the Works Branch. Urgent Repairs, &c. The procedure in regard to dealing with urgent repairs, Engineer damages, and niarching-in and marching-out inspections is detailed fully in Camp Standing Orders, and has been strictly adhered to. Camp Buildings and Accessories. These are indicated on the block plans of both Trentham and Featherston Camps. Details in reference to some of the principal buildings and works are commented upon below. Bakeries. A bakery at Featherston Camp with a battery of four ovens, and a bakery at Trentham Camp with a battery of three ovens, were designed and constructed by the Works Branch upon a new principle. The, capacity of each oven is 300 1 lb. loaves. Firing is continuous when required, so that subsequent batches can be dealt with as the ovens are emptied. 9,0001b. per day has been baked at Featherston Camp. This branch has no statistics available as regards the output of bread at Trentham Camp bakery, but has been assured that the results were eminently satisfactory. Firing is carried on in a separate compartment, thus eliminating dirt, &c. The Cost of construction was—Trentham Camp, £1,000; Featherston Camp, £800. From information supplied by the Director of Supplies and Transport, a saving as under has been effected over contract prices : Trentham Camp, £1,380 per annum : Featherston Camp, £3,600 per annum. Water-supply, Featherston Camp. Owing to the growth of Featherston Camp it was found necessary to remodel the water-supply, and in this connection designs were prepared by the Works Branch for a gravitation scheme. The former supply was derived from a, well and pumped to a 13,000-gallon tank, and from thence distributed by means of pipes to the camp. In dry periods the w r ater in the well was frequently so low that the camp supply had to be cut down to bare necessities, causing great inconvenience to the troops. The new scheme embraced the construction of a reservoir, with settling-tanks and sand-filters installed at a point about a mile north-east of the camp. The supply is obtained from the FeatherstonLongwood Water-race, the intake of which is situated three miles from Featherston Camp. The total capacity of the reservoir (which is duplicated) is 160,000 gallons of filtered water per diem—2o gallons per head per diem. The maximum consumption when the camp was fully occupieel was 140,000 gallons per diem. It is satisfactory to note that on no occasion since the installation was there a failure in watersupply to the camp, nor had any curtailment, even in periods of drought, to be made. Fire-prevention. The water-supply in connection with the, fire-fighting appliances is practically identical for both Trentham and Featherston Camps. It consists of underground concrete tanks of 5,000 gallons capacity, situated at convenient points and supplied from the water-mains. The fire-fighting appliances installed at both camps prior to demobilization are as follows : Trentham Camp--Two manual engines ; fire-buckets ; chemical extincteurs in all principal buildings ; fire-hydrants at Infectious-diseases Hospital. Featherston Camp- One manual engine ; one chemical engine ; one petrol motor-engine. Poum-house, Trentham Camp. The original power plant installed was, on the growth of the camp, found to be inadequate to meet requirements, and consequently a complete new and up-to-date plant, including a new building, was provided. The electrical communications were also practically reconstructed. There are 5,000 points of electric light, and seven motors, totalling 105 horse-power, connected to reticulation. In regard to the power-house at Trentham Camp it is pleasing to record that the cost of the reeionstruction and new plant was practically covered by the sale of a portion of the old plant and the revenue derived from the supply of electric current to encroachment holders. In connection with the disposal of the sewage (fluids) under pressure, sterophagus pumps, directly connected with 25-horse-power vertical electric motors, had to be provided, and since installation to date of handing over by this branch to the. Ordnance Branch there has been no single case of failure recorded. Power-house, Featherston Camp. Similarly to Trentham Camp, Featherston Camp grew considerably in size after the Public, Works Department had completed the main structural work, and on the taking-over by the branch of the

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Director of Works additional power machinery had to be installed. The faulty condition of the machinery as then existing necessitated a complete overhaul at considerable cost. This work was carried out under the superintendence of the staff of the Director of Works, with results that proved entirely satisfactory from that time until the handing-over by this branch to the Ordnance Branch. The cost of the reconstruction of the power plant at Featherston Camp was largely covered by the sale of electric, current to grantees of encroachments. There are 5,600 points of electric, light, and three motors, totalling 22 horse-power, connected to reticulation. Drainage, Featherston Camp. The drainage of Featherston Camp is a gravitation system, the effluent discharging into a side channel of the Tauherenikau River about half a mile from camp. The whole of the main drainage for both Hutment and Canvas Camps was remodelled and relaid by this branch in 1918. The details of the drainage are indicated in brown lines on the litho attached [not reproduced]. Tepid Baths, Trentham and, Featherston Camps. The tepid baths at both Trentham and Featherston each provide for eight showers for officers and 100 showers for rank and file. The supply of cold water in tin* case of Trentham Camp is obtained from the camp water-mains, and at Featherston Camp from the water-race at rear of the power-house. Hot water is supplierl from special boilers installed at rear of bathhouses, which are heated by the power plants without any special staff the power staffs controlling the supply and regulating the temperature of the water supplied. The arrangements permit of bathing 300 men per hour in each bathhouse, each 100 men being allowed twenty minutes for undressing, bathing, and dressing. Provision oj Firewood, Trentham Camp. The Branch of the Director of Works undertook to provide, Trentham Camp with firewood, cut locally from the manuka scrub and heavy dead timber on the Trentham Reserve. Provision was made for sledging the, timber on runways. This service was in operation for only a relatively short period prior to demobilization, but a substantial monetary saving over contract rates, including the cost of the necessary runways, was effected. Capacity oj Camps. The following are the details in connection with the accommodation for troops provided at the camps at Trentham and Featherston, including their subsidiary camps, with details relating to per capita cost (the per capita cost includes administrative buildings, storage accommodation, powerhouses and plant, &c.) : — Trentham Camp : Hutment Camp. 200 officers, 4 500 rank and file ; Engineers Camp, 200 rank and file ; Relief Camp, Heretaunga, 2,000 rank and file : Isolation Camp, 250 rank and file; total accommodation, 7,150. Cost per capita, £16 10s. 3d. Featherston Camp : Hutment Camp, 200 officers, 4,500 rank and file, ; Canvas Camp, 2,500 rank and file ; Tauherenikau Camp, 2,000 rank and file ; Isolation Camp, 150 rank and file; Papawai Camp. 500 rank and file: total accommodation, 9,850. Cost per capita, £19 18s. 7d.

Capacity of Camp Hospitals. TRENTHAM CAMP MILITARY HOSPITALS.

The cost per bed includes the personnel for administration, &c, which numbers 101 persons.

FEATHERSTON CAMP MILITARY HOSPITALS.

The cost per bed includes the personnel for administration, &c, which numbers 104 persons.

Building. Number of ,, , T , , D 1 „ .. <;ost per Bed. Remarks. Patients. ' Cottage Hospital Wairarapa Ward Racing Club Ward Infectious-diseases Hospital a 16 186 80 68 Open-air type. 25 100! Designed and construction superin54 100) tended by D.R.W. Total 175

Building. Number of Patients. i Cost per Bed. , Remarks. Two Rotunda Wards with accessories Venereal-diseases Ward Infectious-diseases Hospital Total .. .. I 160 24 58 242 I £ 52 IPartly open-air type. 4 16 Barrack-hut type. : !■' 101 Designed and construction tended by D.R.W. superin-

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Tauherenikau Camp Military Hospital: In addition to the above-mentioned accommodation a small hospital was constructed by the Works Branch at Tauherenikau Four-section Camp, containing an emergency ward for two patients, a medical inspection-room, and dispensary, <fee. Tauherenikau Racecourse Military Hospital : A reappropriation of the totalizator building at Tauherenikau Racecourse was carried out by the Works Branch to provide accommodation for thirty patients from Tauherenikau Camp. The work on this hospital reappropriation included a new lavatory annexe and a remodelling of the drainage. Financial Statemen I. A financial statement covering the total expenditure in connection with the construction and maintenance of both Trentham and Featherston Military Camps, together with details of expenditure on institutes, hospitals, <fee, by religious and patriotic, bodies, is also included. TRENTHAM AND SUBSIDIARY CAMPS. Expenditure on Trentham and Subsidiary Camps to the 31st March, 1919. £ a. d. First period (Camp Commandant) . . . . .. .. . . . . 1.520 0 0 Second period (Public Works Department) .. .. .. 94,729 , 2 0 <L s. d. Services only by Director of Works .. .. ..1916-17 4.223 8 0 1917-18 6.210 4 2 1918-19 2.218 17 0 12.652 9 2 Maintenance -Director of Works .. .. .. 1916 17 1.330 6 9 1917-18 588 11 11 1918-19 2.150 19 3 4.069 17 11 Contracts supervised by Director of Works . . . . . . . . . . 9.419 13 10 Rifle ranges-Director of Works .. .. ..1916-17 89 15 6 1917-18 210 2 6 1918-19 24 4 9 324 2 9 Relief Camp Director of Works .. .. ..1.916-17 299 6 9 1917-18 349 7 7 1918-19 537 13 9 1.186 8 I Isolation Camp—Director of Works .. .. .. 1917-18 211 13 8 1918-19 36 7 7 248 1 3 Engineer's Camp Director of Works . . . . . . 1917-18 . . .. 207 6 10 Special services at Izard's and Remount Depot. . ..1916-17 .. .. 271 5 11 Total Defence expenditure .. .. .. ..£124.628 8 6 Private expenditure on hospitals, institutes, &c, not supervised by the Director of Works .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 12.800 10 0 Private expenditure on hospitals, &C, supervised by the Director of Works . . 2.522 3 0 Canteen Fund, supervised by the Director of Works . . .. . . 210 4 2 V.M.C.A. gymnasium, supervised by the Director of Works .. .. .. 2.379 11 I Total expenditure other than Defence . . . . . . £17.912 8 3 Credits -Electric-light revenue, &c. .. .. .. .. .. .. £1,390 1 11 £ a. d. Total expenditure, Defence .. ~ .. 124.628 8 6 Total expenditure, other than Defence .. .. 17,912 8 3 Grand total .. .. ~ .. £142,540 16 9 Total Defence expenditure, including maintenance .. .. .. .. 124,628 8 6 Defence expenditure, including maintenance- D.R.W. .. 1916-17 .. .. 6,214 2 11 1917-18 .. .. 19,601 6 3 1918 19 .. .. 4.968 2 4 Total Public Works Department expenditure .. .. .. .. 94,729 2 9 Total Camp Commandant expenditure .. .. .. . . .. 1 .520 0 0 Total Director of Works expenditure .. .. .. .. .. 30,783 11 6 Total private expenditure .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 17.912 8 3 Total expenditure, on hospitals (Defence) . . .. . . . . . . 9. UK) 0 0 Total expenditure-on hospitals (private) .. :. .. .. .. 5,980 0 0 Revenue from supply of electric light, per annum .. .. .-. .. 475 0 0 Cost per capita, £16 10s. 3d. Note.- The whole of the accounts of this branch have been audited and passed by the Government Auditor.

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FEATHERSTON AND SUBSIDIARY CAMPS. Expenditure on Featherston and Subsidiary Camps to the 31st March, 1919. £ s. (1. Public Works Department expenditure .. .. .. .. .. .178.288 0 0 £ s. d. Services only by Director of Works .. .. .. 1916-17 4,937 19 1 1917-18 4,732 2 10 1918-19 4.929 6 10 14.599 8 9 Maintenance Director of Works .. .. .. 1916-17 1.335 6 6 1917-18 2,281 10 I 1918-19 2,14.5 4 10 5,762 1 5 Rifle ranges Director of Works .. . . .. 1917-18 21 6I 1 1918-19 179 4 3 200 11 2 Tauherenikau Canvas Camp Director of Works .. 1916-17 477 12 8 1917-18 3.856 14 8 1918 19 546 18 8 4,881 6 0 Tauherenikau Isolation Camp -D.R.W. .. .. 1916-17 .. .. 199 11 3 Papawai Musketry Camp--Director of Works .. .. 1916 17 928 2 4 1917-18 98 11 8 1918 19 39 3 7 1,065 17 7 Contracts supervised by Director of Works .. .. 1917-18 .. .. 7.398 0 0 Total Defence expenditure .. .. .. .. £212,394 16 2 Canteen Fund—Director of Works .. .. .. 1917-18 .. .. 133 8 7 Post and telegraph--Director of Works .. .. 1917-18 .. .. 484 7 9 Misce laneous service (sanitary, &c.) paid for by grantees Supervised by D;R.W. .. .. '. . .. 1917-18 .. .. 99 18 5 Institutes, Featherston - Salvation Army .. .. .. ..• ... 2.043 10 9 Church of England .. .. .. .. .. 1,202 16 8 Catholic .. .. .. .. .. .. 1,350 0 0 V.M.C.A. .. .. .. .. .. .. 3,500 0 0 United .. .. .. .. .. .. 3,000 0 0 11.096 7 5 Institutes, Tauherenikau Salvation Army . . . . ..■,.. .. 917 8 1 Church of England .. .. .. .. .. 861 17 9 V.M.C.A. .. .. .. .. .. .. 1.200 0 0 2,979 5 10 Institute, Papawai V.M.C.A. .. .. .. .. .. .. 200 0 0 Total expenditure other than Defence .'. . .'■ .. £14.993 18 0 Credits Electric-light revenue, &c. .. .. .. .. .. .. £1,190 10 10 Total expenditure, Defence .. .. .. 212,394 16 2 Total expenditure, other than Defence .. .. 14,9.93 18 0 Grand total .. .. .. .. £227,388 14 2 Total Defence expenditure, including maintenance .. .. .. .. 212.391 Hi 2 Defence expenditure, including maintenance D.R.W. 1916-17 .. .. 7.878 11 10 1917 18 .. .. 21.279 17 10 1918 19 .. .. £7,839 18 2 Total Public Works Department expenditure .. .. .. .. .. 178.288 0 0 Total Director of Works expenditure . . .. . . .. . . 36.998 18 2 Total private expenditure .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 14.993 18 0 Total expenditure on hospitals (Defence) .. .. .. .. .. 18.564 0 0 Total expenditure on hospitals (private) . . . . .. .. . . 250 0 0 Revenue from supply of electric, light, per annum . . . . . . . . 476 0 0 Cost per capita, £19 18s. 7d. Note. The whole of the accounts of this branch have been audited and passed by the. Government Auditor.

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Institutes, Trentham Gamp. The following facts in connection with the various institutes at both Trentham and Featherston Camps may prove of interest. There are seven institutes, including the Soldiers' Club, exclusive of the lecture-hall, which, when not in use, by the troops for lecture purposes, is utilized as a, picturetheatre. The institutes have a total superficial area of 21,865 ft., which affords accommodation for 2,500 persons. The, Soldiers' Club was designed and the construction superintended by the Works Branch, ft affords accommodation for warrant officers, non-commissioned officers, and men, and is provided with billiard-tables, &c. Institutes, Featherston Camp. Featherston and its subsidiary camps are, similarly to Trentham, provided with institutes, Soldiers' Club, and picture-theatre. The Soldiers' Club was designed and the construction superintended by the Works Branch. The whole of the, institutes at both Trentham. and Featherston Camps are electrically lighted, the current being supplied from, the camp power-houses free of charge. Plans in connection with the Camps. The locality "and block plans for both Trentham and Featherston Cam [is, and the detailed plans in connection with the more important works constructed by the Works Branch, are attached to this report [not reproduced]. Buildings constructed outside the Expeditionary Forob Training-cam ps. The following large hospital works were designed and the work commenced under the superintendence of the Works Branch: - Rotorua Military Hospitals. There are two separate schemes for additional accommodation to King George Hospital, Rotorua, the plans and specifications, &c, for which were prepared by the Works Branch. The original scheme, which embraced the buildings, &c, specified below, is now completed, and the constructional work on the second scheme, which is separately detailed, is well advanced. It should, however, be noted that further additions to th(! second scheme, are now under consideration by the DirectorGeneral of Medical Services, and consist of further housing accommodation for nurses, masseuse, and V.A.D.s. King George Hospital Original scheme : — (a.) Two blocks, containing three main wards and one, single-bed ward in each block, with separate annexes, giving a total accommodation for seventy-four patients. (b.) One block to accommodate eight, officers in single rooms, with billiard-room, lavatories, &c. (c.) Three barrack-room blocks for orderlies, providing accommodation for sixteen noncommissioned officers and seventy men, with a common sitting-room in one block. (d.) Bathhouse building, containing swimming-bath, Aix bath, &c, and massage-rooms (now to be further enlarged to medical requirements), hot-water supply from thermal spring. (c.) Drying-room. (/.) Vocational workshops. (g.) V.M.C.A. Institute. King George Hospital Second scheme : The second and additional scheme comprises a new Orthopaedic Hospital with administrative, buildings, Medical Officers' quarters, nurses' quarters, Ordnance stores, and certain reappropriations to the original King George Hospital buildings for office and store accessories. The details of the ward accommodation are ;is follows : (a.) Four wards to accommodate thirty-two patients in each ward. (6.) Eight single-bed wards, (c.) Two two-bed wards. (d.) Central kitchen administration to deal with the whole of the hospital buildings on Pukeroa Hill. Pukeora Military Sanatorium, Waipukurau. The Sanatorium at Waipukurau in course of construction provides accommodation for patients, &c, as follows :— (((.) Main Block, fourteen beds distributed in one-, two-, and three-bed wards. (b.) Shelters for single and two-beds, to accommodate s ■ventv-two patients. (c.) Administrative block, kitchen and dining blocks, lavatory annexes, non-commissioned officers' and men's barrack-rooms, senior and junior Medical Officers' quarters, nurses' quarters, recreation-room, V.M.C.A. social hall, workshops, laundry, power-house, X-ray room, farm-manager's cottage, &c. In addition to the buildings mentioned in the foregoing, further provision for fifty single-bed shelters has been approved, and the plans for same are now in course of preparation.

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Small Building Works carried out outside the Expeditionary Force Training-camps. During the period of the control of the Director of Works at the Expeditionary Force trainingcamps the undermentioned buildings were designed arid constructed outside the camps and superintended by this branch : — (a.) Hospital, Somes Island. (b.) Artificial-limb Factory, Wellington, (c.) Religious Objectors' Barracks, Weraroa. ((/.) Workshop, &c, Victoria Hospital, (c.) Additions to Taumaru Military Convalescent Home. The Expeditionary Force training-camps at Featherston and Trentham were handed over by the Works Branch to the Ordnance Branch on the 19th December, 1918. and the 9th January, 1919, respectively, by request, but the Director of Works continued to direct the construction of the new military hospitals at Rotorua and Waipukurau until due date of departure, from New Zealand. This report covers the whole period of niv administration as Director of Works from the date of appointment, 22nd duly, 1915, to 16th June, 1.919.

APPENDICES.

APPENDTX A.

Returns showing Number of Prosecutions from 1st May, 1918, to 31st March, 1919.

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No n-legist rations. Refusal to take Oath. Absence from or Obstruction of Parades. Convic otions. Military District, G^'" p Senior j TerriCadets. I torials. Senior TerriCadets. j torials. i Senior (Vlots. Territorials. Senior TerriCadcts. torials. ■ | Auckland .. I 3 II 2 3 6 I 4 I 17 51 19 4 (i 7 5 38 24 10 2 51 A 13 35 10 30 6 6 21 2 District totals .. 10 12 110 56 113 65 Wellington .. 5 1 (i 1 7 20 I 8 18 7 19 2 20 4 1 I 3-1 29 10 7 13 38 61 27 9 2 37 12 36 12 '45 29 2 31 10 U '61 9 37 District totals . . 31 I 1 114 164 136 162 Canterbury .. 9 19 K) 11 12 8 2 21 5 291 42 149 109 1 19 6 18 10 22 201 97 1 13 14 34 100 19 16 22 District totals .. | 32 2 Otago .. .. 13 10 I II 35 3 15 6 16 16 District totals . . 67 4 2 . 457 210 30 18 9 25 3 24 3 5 15 72 326 39 42 8 3 191 4 30 24 7 •• 2 A 92 65 Dominion totals .. 113 19 A A 726 502 667 483 Percentage of convictions on prosed utions ; Senior Oar lets, 76-40 ; Territe irials, 92.

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APPENDIX B. APPOINTMENTS, PROMOTIONS, ETC. Principal Appointments and Ruti moments, etc., of Officers since Date ok Last Report. The following appointment at Headquarters has been instituted, with effect from sth May, 1919 : — General Officer in Charge of Administration, Headquarters, N.Z. Military Forces. The undermentioned appointments have been cancelled and the duties pertaining thereto absorbed into the, appointment of General Officer in Charge of Administration, Headquarters, N.Z. Military Forces, with effect from sth May, 191.9 : - Quartermaster-General to the Forces. Adjutant-General to the Forces. On 9th January, 1919, Colonel R. W. Tate, C.8.E.. relinquished his duties as Adjutant-General at Headquarters, and proceeded, to Samoa for the purpose, of relieving the Administrator (Colonel Logan), who was returning to New Zealand on leave. Air Force Adviser. Early in 1.919 the Imperial Government was asked for the services of an Air Force Adviser, to report on Air Force questions relating to the defence, and commercial questions of a future aerial policy here. Lieut.-Colonel A. V. Bettington, C.M.G., an officer of the Royal Air Force, was selected for this duty, and arrived in New Zealand on the 17th March, 1919. Since his arrival this officer has visited the principal parts of the Dominion, assisted by Major A. de P>. Brandon, D.5.0., M.G., Royal Air Force, and has submitted his report to the New Zealand Government. Appointments oj Imperial Officers terminated. The engagements of the following Imperial officers under the New Zealand Government have been terminated as from the dates shown against their names : Major-General Robert Samuel Findlay Henderson, C.8., M.8., K.H.P., A M.S., Royal Army Medical Corps, relinquished the appointment of Director-General of Medical Services, with effect from 28th March, 1919. Brevet-Colonel (temp. Brigadier-General) W. G. Braithwaite, C.M.G., D.5.0., Imperial General Staff, 16th February, 1918. Major (Brevet Lieut.-Colonel) (temp. Colonel) Charles Monk 'Gibbon, C.M.G., p.s.c, 1.G.5., Royal Irish Fusiliers, 22nd July, 1919. Left New Zealand LOth June, 1919. Major (Brevet Lieut.-Colonel) W. R.'Pinwill, D.5.0.. Imperial General Staff, 18th July, 1916. Major A. C. Temperley, D.5.0., Norfolk Regiment, 30th May, 1917. Major (Brevet .Lieut.-Colonel) If. G. Reid, I).S (>., Army Service Corps, 23rd May, 1918. Major (temp. Lieut.-Colonel) N. C. Hamilton, D.5.0., Army Service Corps, 13th December, 1916. Major A.. C. Robinson, Army Service Corps, 12th August, 1915. Major 11. H. Wright, D.5.0., Army Service Corps, 11th October, 1917. Major (temp. Lieut.-Colonel) F. B. Sykes, D.5.0., Royal Field Artillery, l-lth March, 1918. Major (temp. Lieut.-Colonel) R. Neuve, Essex Regiment, 23rd February, 1919. Major (Brevet Lieut.-Colonel) C. R. Macdonald, C.M.G., 1.G.5., Royal Warwickshire Regiment, 25th March, 1919. Major H. A. Cooper, 1.G.5., sth Lancers, 25th March, 1919. Captain (temp. Major) Sir R. Walker, Bart., Coldstream Guards, Special Reserve, 20th March, 1919. At the request of the New Zealand Government the services of the Director of Mi'itary Training, Lieut.-Colonel J. L. Sleeman, C.8.E., Imperial General Staff, have been placed at. the disposal of the Dominion by the Army Council for a further period of two years. This officer is the only representative of the Imperial General Staff now serving in New Zealand. Territorial Force. The following table gives a summary of all appointments, &c, in the Xew Zealand Territorial Forces from 4th May, 1918, to 31st May,' 1919 : First appointments .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 227 Temporary appointments .. .. .. .. .. . . 176 Appointments confirmed .. . . .. . . . . 31 Promotions .. .. . . .. .. .. . . . . 306 Resignations . . . . . . .. .. .. . . 68 To Reserve of Officers.. .. .. .. .. .. .. 49 To Retired List .. .. .. .. .. .. ..45 To Unattached List (a) .. .. .. .. .. .. 2 To Unattached List (6) .. .. .. .. .. .. 225 To Expeditionary Force .. .. .. .. .. .. 219 Commissions cancelled. . .. .. .. .. .. ..28 Deaths in New Zealand . . ■ .. . . .. .. 56 Deaths on active service .. .. .. .. .. 198 Struck off strength of Expeditionary Force . . . . .. .. 394

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APPENDIX C. EDUCATIONAL AND VOCATIONAL TRAINING FOR SOLDIERS IN NEW ZEALAND. (By W. H. Montgomery, C.8.E., Director of Vocational Training.) The development of educational and vocational training in New Zealand has not been on the lines originally designed in England, but has been modified to suit local circumstances and the psychology of the returned soldier. The original educational scheme was laid down in England by a conference of educational experts; and, as was to be expected, its leading features were educational. It was designed, for fit men, and not for invalids, and for soldiers among whom discipline could still be enforced. It aimed at raising the soldier's standard of education, and providing vocational training during demobilization, which was then expected to be protracted for a lengthy period. The conditions under which it was introduced into New Zealand were essentially different. The scheme was not applied to fit men, but to invalids whose minds had ceased to be receptive, and who had become infected with the apathy which is inevitable in cases of illness. Moreover, they were returned soldiers. Discipline had become relaxed -to say the least of it -after a long sea-voyage, and compulsion was to them anathema. The psychology of the returned soldier is a study too deep to be dealt with in a report of this nature, but it cannot be overlooked, as it is an essential factor in determining the training which it is practicable to introduce. Our soldiers who have lived through an epic of war experiences return enlightened, but at the same time, disabled physically and changed mentally. Their knowledge of other civilizations, of mini and women of the old countries, will be a, rich heritage to them and their descendants, but for the time being their mental outlook is changed. Had they stayed in New Zealand the)' would, for the, most part, have, been steady workers taking their part as citizens ; perhaps narrow and parochial, as is to be expected in a distant colony, but presenting no psychological problems and demanding no special treatment or consideration. Some of our soldiers have come back to us as invalids, and during their convalescence are discontented and disinclined to exert themselves. This unrest must be considered a war disablement— just as if they had lost an arm or a, leg and they require sympathy and firm but considerate treatment accordingly. Most of the returned men are prepared to settle down and take their part as citizens, but some feel that they have done their bit, that the war is over, that the State owes a debt to them which it can never wholly repay, and that, while the}- are entitled to the most generous treatment which the State can devise they should not be constrained to do anything by means which are not applicable to other citizens. Too little allowance is made by the public, who have been able to pursue their occupations at home in peace because others were lighting for them, for the unrest of soldiers suddenly called on to settle down to a life lor which military training and the excitement of war has unfitted them. It is only in the light of this psychology that a, training scheme can be introduced among soldiers. So far as such training is strictly curative it- may be and should be made compulsory by Medical Officers. If it can be shown that such training as is received in occupational workrooms and carpenters' shops is for curative purposes it will not be resented by the soldiers. On the other hand, educational training cannot be introduced comptilsorily, The soldier in hospital is an invalid; and as invalids in civilian hospitals are not forced, as part of their treatment, to learn the three R.s and the elements of book-keeping, or even economics and civics, the soldier sees no reason why he should be treated differently. Facilities should, however, be given to soldiers to take up educational subjects. Few will avail themselves of such opportunity, but they should receive every encouragement. With regard to vocational training the position is somewhat different. Compulsion is not, recommended, except where necessary to counteract the bad effects of idleness: encouragement should take its place. Most soldiers will only take up subjects which, they consider will eventually put money in their pockets, or for which they have a liking: they will select interesting occupations only. The humdrum trades do not appeal to them, and it is useless providing such instruction for them at, hospitals. In short, in the matter of vocational training no priori methods are of any use. The soldier must lie given what training he wants, and must be provkled with every facility to get it, as conveniently as possible. At the same time he should be placed in direct touch with Vocation Officers, who must be returned, soldiers, and whoseduty it must be to encourage the, soldier to occupy the leisure time of his convalescence in such educational and vocational training as will give, him special advantages in taking up work after his discharge. In comparing the tabulated results of training in the different, districts in various hospitals it must- he remembered that, orthopaedic hospitals stand in a. different category to sanatoria. Patients who come to hospitals for operative treatment stay a few weeks only, and are, discharged to a, convalescent home as soon as their health permits. They arc really invalids, and fit for light occupational work only. If is useless to expect many of them to take up courses which cover a considerable period of time. The best results arc obtained at sanatoria where the patients are nearly recovered, and where, they stay for some months instead of a few weeks. Occupational Classes. The original classes (established by the Medical Branch) were occupational, and this still continues as the basis, or at any rate the first step, towards bringing the soldier back to active effort. In many cases the exercise for special muscles has a valuable curative effect. Leather-work, basket-work, wood-carving, spinning and weaving, and embroidery (for cot cases) are taught. The classes are well attended and, as a rule, popular. Basket-work is not as popular at present as leather-work. A detailed statement showing numbers in attendance is given (Exhibit A). Workrooms for this purpose have been built at Auckland Annexe, Devonport and Epsom Convalescent Homes, Rotorua, Napier, Wanganui, Trentham, Victoria Ward (since closed), Lowry Bay (since closed), Miramar, Christchurch. Hanmer, Timaru, Dunedin Hospital, Montecillo Convalescent Home, and Invsrcargill. Imtructrawe*

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have been engaged. The workrooms were in most cases built with funds provided by the Red Cross (N.Z.) Society; most of the equipment also was supplied by them. Material was supplied by the Red Cross Society up to the Ist June, 1919. An animated controversy has arisen over the, question of payment for work done. The present regulations provide that proceeds from sales of work to the public are to be. paid into a hospital recreation fund. In the, main this rule has been well received after the reasons for its adoption have been explained. It should, however, be pointed but that this now entails a large amount of expense to the Defence Department, especially as regards leather-work and. embroidery, as no deduction is made for materials, the outlay on which is considerable. Vocational Training, Previous to my taking charge of this branch on the 11th December. 1918, a number of workshops had been built, but no vocational training had been provided. It is considered desirable to deal with the different subjects of vocational instruction seriatim : Making of Splints and Surgical Appliances. —ln the Orthopaedic Workshops at Christchurch splintmaking is taught: this will also be arranged for at Auckland, Rotorua, Trentham, and Dunedin, where the equipment for the workshops is now nearly completed. Considered as a vocational subject, there is little or no opening for splint-makers in New Zealand, but, as it involves the handling of iron and leather tools, the soldiers detailed in these workshops get a good deal of useful training which will be valuable to them in any branch of life. It also has a curative value in many cases. At the Chalmers Military Orthopaedic Hospital there are forty-six men being trained under this heading. Carpentry and Cabinetmaking. Training in carpentry and cabinet-making is not so popular as would be expected. The total number receiving training is sixty-nine. In some hospitals, as in Christchurch, men are detailed to do carpentry-work as a means of getting them used to making bodily effort. Special training is given for injured muscles and joints. From a curative point of view carpentry is undoubtedly valuable. A certain number of soldiers take tin's subject voluntarily, but they need a good deal of persuasion., and it is difficult to make them appreciate the opportunity which they have of becoming handy with tools. The articles made are mostly hospital furniture, but this is not allowed to interfere with vocational training. The rule is that- training should be firstly curative, secondly vocational, and thirdly productive. Engineering. A certain amount of training in engineering is given in the splint-shops, and al Rotorua the engineer gives special vocational training in electrical engineering (class of nine) : but the only form of engineering that is really popular is motor engineering. There is a demand for this instruction all over the Dominion, and classes established have everywhere been successful. The total number receiving training is 120. At Auckland, Wellington. Christchurch, and Hanmer special instructors Lave been appointed, and motors have been obtained for demonstrative purposes. This training will be valdable for farmers, as oil-engines are used on nearly all dairy farms and in shearingsheds, and motor-tractors also may come into general use. Boot-repairing. Classes under this heading have been established at Rotorua, Napier, Miramar, and Hanmer. They are generally successful, though not a large number attend them (the total number at present is eighteen). A good deal of useful work is done in repairing boots for the patients at the hospital. This is a trade which can be learnt- in a short time, and fair wages are assured after a, few months' work. Tailoring. An instructor in tailoring was engaged at Rotorua. but soldiers could not be induced to attend classes. At Trentham, on the, other hand, the clothes-pressing class is popular, and has a membership of ten. This no doubt is partly due to the fact that it is conducted by a V.M.C.A. officer, who is deservedly popular with the soldiers. Signwriting. —A class in signwritlng has been established at Hanmer, and if successful this subject will be introduced into other hospitals. Farming Subjects. Many efforts have been made to ensure capable instruction in farming subjects, but there are considerable difficulties in the way, the greatest of which is the apathy of the men. Officers of the Agricultural Department- can only give lectures irregularly, and cannot visitall hospitals. In Auckland the Vocation Officer considers this subject so important- that he has recommended the appointment of two or three travelling instructors to give lectures on wool-classing, stock diseases and management, dairying, and other subjects connected with the farm. As it is thought that this is the only method of securing efficient instruction this proposal has been approved. Lectures on dairying are now given at the annexe, and wool-classing instruction is also given by Mr. Hambly, and is much appreciated. Thirty-five are attending classes. In the Wellington District, farming classes have not yet been established, but the Vocation Officer proposes to make, arrangements with the Agricultural Department for this purpose. It will, however, probably be found necessary to appoint special instructors to devote their whole time to the work. Agricultural instruction will, of course, be given at the Pukeora Military Sanatorium, Waipukurau, but 1 I aye not yet been advised whether I am to take charge, of this farm. (Note. Advice has since been received.) In Christchurch efforts to give farming instruction have not been successful. The Director of Lincoln College and Dr. Hilgendorf were induced to give lectures at the Hospital in Christchurch, but these were poorly attended despite, the fact that the Vocation Officer did all that be could to collect the men together, and they were finally discontinued. A small number of soldiers attended the agricultural classes at the Technical School, but these classes may also be considered unsuccessful. Since soldiers have been accommodated at- the V.M.C.A. rooms in Christchurch the Vocation Officer has arranged for special instruction by a number of experts in wool-classing and agricultural matters. It is hoped that they will prove a- success. A poultry-farm is being established on the Cashmere Hills in connection with the Military Sanatorium there. At Hanmer, on the other hand (Convalescent Hospital), the lectures given by the Farm Manager are well attended, and the soldiers take greal interest in the work. The farm is being developed : purebred sheep and cattle have been purchased, and experimental crops are being grown. Little can be done beyond giving lectures in the winter, but, in the spring practical courses of agricultural instruction will be given, and it is thought that full advantage will be taken of them. The report of the Farm Manager is attached to the report of

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the Vocation Officer, Canterbury. At Timaru instruction in wool-classing is given at the Technical School, and special arrangements have been made for the instruction of soldiers. At Dunedin instruction in farming is still awaiting development. The Vocation Officer is arranging with the. Agricultural Department in this connection, but no lectures have yet been given. The City Corporation desired this branch to establish a poultry-farm at Opolo. It was, however, considered that this would be more suitable for discharged soldiers, and the Repatriation Department have now arranged to take this matter up. Commercial Classes. There is not much demand for commercial classes, though the)- receive every encouragement. Much dep'euds on the instructor. Book-keeping is taught in Auckland, Rotorua, Trentham, Christchurch, 1 ! and Hanmer in conned ion with the hospitals, and also in the technical schools. A few of the soldiers learn typewriting but this is considered women's work. The total number attending classes in commercial subjects is 107. Correspondence Classes. Assistance to attend these classes is given where facilities for instruction arc not available to the soldier, as in country hospitals. The usual rule is to contribute £5 if a soldier is desirous of taking them up. There are six attending these classes at present. Technical Schools. It was anticipated at the initiation of the scheme that the technical schools would provide suitable training for soldiers, and that lew special instructors would be required. The results in this respect have been unsatisfactory : few soldiers can be induced to attend classes. The total number attending technical schools is now I 10. The training at the technical schools is intended lor regular instruction, and intensive courses are not given. The instructors are not themselves returned soldiers, and do not- understand them. The classes are held at inconvenient hours, are often crowded, and attended by <n'rls and boys. Lastly, the transport difficulty is a real one. Soldiers will not go to technical schools if it lakes them half an hour to get there and the same time to return. They are not eager for vocational instruction, and require not a, little persuasion before the)- will attend classes at- all. The war seems to have taken away much of (heir initiative. It is necessary to meet them in ovorv way, anil this has been done. In Christchurch and Timaru special instructors have been engaged to teach soldiers at the Technical School. The tendency is to provide instructors to teach technical subjects independently of the technical schools altogether. The Vocation Officer at Christchurch states. " The special soldiers' classes are in all cases successful, and it is recognized that where the kind of instruction soldiers want is provided good attendances can always be obtained." It should, however, be mentioned that the Dunedin Technical School is an exception. The classes there have been attended by over sixty. Educational Training. II was soon found that few soldiers wished to be educated. Compulsory education might have been practicable during demobilization in England, but- it was out of the question in New Zealand among returned soldiers. Nevertheless the attempt to provide educational training was made, and in Auckland a well-qualified officer was appointed lor the purpose. As it was found that there was practically no demand Eor instruction, he was made Assistant Vocation Officer instead of instructor. Economics and dries. At (he Annexe, Auckland, classes wen- started in these subjects by professors of the Auckland University College. Civics soon dropped out, as little interest was shown, but economics still continues with a class of twenty-six. At, Wellington and (hi istchurch no educational instruction is given, but it will lie provided H there is any demand. At Hanmer there is an enthusiastic patient- who has a good knowledge of economics, and succeeds in keeping the attention of large classes in this subject-. If he leaves it is likely that the class will lose interest. At Dunedin lectures on economics are delivered b\ Archdeacon Woodthorpe, but the Vocation Officer says in his report, "The men who arc able to get about will not- attend." It is noted that the teaching of economics was discontinued, in English hospitals, but it will be persevered with in New Zealand as long as soldiers will attend the classes. Other Educational Subjects. Instruction in other educational subjects is not now attempted, except where special application is made in rare instances. University Education. Soldiers who wish to attend university classes have their fees refunded. Few, however, avail themselves of these privileges. A.s Canterbury College is at- present- closed for vacation the figures are not available. It- must, however, be remembered that returned soldiers are not of the age from which university students are generally recruited, and that tin- profession of schoolmaster is not. likely to appeal to them. Administration. The development of a new branch of the Defence Department was not carried out without- administrative difficulties. Its establishment was not determined on until the middle of December, 1918. Buildings, equipment, and staff were required, and these could not be called into existence by a magician's wand. A four of the Dominion had first to be made, occupying several weeks, to ascertain the local requirements. Suitable Vocation Officers were hard to find. Owing to the scarcity of labour, buildings were only completed after exasperating delays. The provision of equipment, especially for splint-shops, was delayed in some cases for months after indents had been sent in. It is right to say that after the conference of Vocation Officers in May the equipment was wonderfully accelerated. Still, as a matter of fact the Vocation Officers now find it quicker to buy nearly all the equipment and material themselves, though it involves a great deal of office-work. The equipment and. material directly purchased by them up to the Ist July, 191.), amounted to Auckland, £366 Us. 3d. ; Wellington, £77 -Is. sd. ; Christchurch. £496 L3s. lOd. ; Dunedin. £408 12s. sd. : total, £1,319 Is. lid. Instructors had to be found for all the military hospitals in the Dominion from the ranks of returned soldiers. They have been provided, but it has taken time and a great deal of office-work. One inevitable result- of the amount of work sudden!) thrown on Vocation Officers was that they found themselves overwhelmed with details relating to buildings, equipment, indents, and Treasury vouchers, and they spent long days and nights in purcl) office-work' when they should have been getting into touch with soldiers. A Vocation Officer in the early months of this scheme required to

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be a hardware expert, to have a good knowledge of leather and, cane, a general knowledge of architecture, carpentry, tailoring, bootmnking, and engineering, a detailed acquaintance with ordnance methods, and at the same time to tie well versed in all educational subjects. Hospital patients were interviewed, it is true, but the staff was insufficient to deal with out-patients: and it is only recently, since all Vocation Officers have been provided with assistants and increased staff, that out-patients have received proper attention. Vocation Officers have now been instructed to specially interview out-patients, but- in order to carry this out more assistants must- be appointed... Suitable officers are difficult to obtain, and, after they have been appointed, require to be trained. The attitude of soldiers to the educational and vocational training scheme was at first suspicious, if not actually hostile. Some returned men unfortunately considered the Defence Department as I heir natural enemy, and, acting on the principle " Timeo Dauuos et dona ferenles," looked askance on all schemes designed for their advantage which did not involve some concession in ready money. All resented the idea of compulsory education, and most of them are hard to rouse from the inertness which characterizes hospital life. Many of them apparently took little interest in their future. Happily, flu- Vocation Officers are returned soldiers themselves, and were able to understand this mental attitude. There is now little opposition to the scheme, and soldiers are beginning to understand that the Vocation Officers are, anxious to help them in every way. Though come classes fail, others are immediately started, and. the, number of those receiving training is steadily increasing. The number of soldiers who themselves apply for training is increasing, and this is considered a hopeful feature. Stacks of Development. The educational and vocational training scheme passes through successive stages of development in different parts of each district. The stages may be described a.s- (I) The building stage; (2) the equipment stage, ; and (3) instruction stage. The present position is as follows :■- Auckland District. Except for the splint-shops at the Annexe and Rotorua, this district is well developed, and in the instruction stage. So far as the large hospitals are concerned, splint-shops are emerging from the equipment stage. Great difficulty has been experienced in obtaining equipment and belting, but it is understood that this has now been supplied and that work may be commenced at any time. Instructors have been engaged for some, time past. Wellington District. Trentham is fully equipped, but the splint-shop has been held up, as educational and vocational training-work has been delayed on account of urgent medical requirements. Instructors in other subjects are now holding classes, but the serious illness of two successive Principal Medical Officers (Colonels Mill and Wylie) has delayed the operation of the scheme. Featherston. It was not considered until recently that this hospital would require special instruction, as it was thought it would only be used temporarily pending the opening of the Sanatorium at Waipukurau. It is now probable that the hospital will be open at least till Christmas. A special visit will, be made to Featherston, and. arrangements carried out with regard to buildings, equipment, and instruction. (Note.—l visited this hospital on the 6th instant.) Waipukurau. ■ This hospital will not be ready for two months in- more. No action has been taken as to the farm, pending receipt, of instructions. Napier.- Buildings, equipment, and instructors have been provided ; but, hitherto the Medical Officer-in charge has not detailed men for vocational training, as in other hospitals. Wanganui.- A workshop has been erected and equipped by looal societies, and occupational work has been carried on by V.A.D.s. T will visit this hospital and complete arrangements. (Note. This has since been done.) Palmerston North. There are only ten soldiers in hospital at Palmerston North, but arrangements will be, made to provide occupational work. 'Miramar. A workshop lias been leased and equipped, and instruction is being given. Canterbury. Christehurch has been in the instruction stage for some, time past. Additions arc now being made to the buildings at the Chalmers Military Orthopnedic Hospital. Cashmere Military Sanatorium. This is not yet occupied by soldiers, but a, workroom has been built and will be equipped when required. Hammer. Instruction is being given, but the accommodation is insufficient, as the cinema and new Red Cross buildings have not been completed. A contract has been let for a wool-classing shed, but, owing to the difficulty of obtaining building-material at, Hanmer, the building has not been commenced. Timaru.- —A workshop has been built, and instruction is being given. A new room is being built, and will shortly be completed. Otago. — The Montecillo Convalescent Home has been in the instruction stage for some time past. The Dunedin Hospital workshops have just been completed and equipped, and the instruction stage is beginning. Invercargill. Workshop has been completed and equipped, and instruction is being given. Staff. The staff of the Educational and Vocational Training Branch now (Ist July) numbers seventyseven. It is likely to increase as the scheme is extended. Plans for the Future, (1.) Extension of instruction at all hospitals. (2.) The appointment of travelling District Instructors in farming. (3.) Special attention to be paid to out-patients. (4.) The, provision of farm buildings, equipment, and instructors for the farms at Waipukurau and Tauherenikau. (5.) The establishment of a poultry-farm at Cashmere Hills. (6.) The provision of instructors at Featherston, Wanganui, Palmerston North, and other hospitals not yet provided with instructors.

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EXHIBIT A. Educational and Vocational Training Attendance Sheet, 30th June, 1919.

Approximate Cost of I'aper.— Preparation, not given ; copies), £57 103.

By Anthoritv : Mawctis F. Mar.ks. (IrwepmtiATit Printer WftllinotnTi —1919

! Occupational. Educational. Vocational. 1 ■ \l L t & s 1 111 ,_i r4 Ii-I I-" WW (M OJ W -N N « W CI » CO CO I CO h CO | CO j CO CO CO I CO -* -* ■* . ■* t ~* — -rI I I " I i | [ I" I ' -I -I III .. 15 . . . . 6 14 . . ; 15 :: :: :: :: - 3 :: :: :: :: s :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: '$ :: :: :: :: :: :: ::| :: :: :: , ..! .1 .. ..] ! 1 . Hame of Hospital. ,«j|?. 1 I 1:1 I ■M= -g 5 rO . — j I t-J 93 -r* .C - i i V SO 5 4 1 I §"§ tJ 00 Ci O rH -J CO I —! Pi ft 3 o . c; ;_= u H rH rH rH *H : .2 S i .2 - a i < r« fl "J O r. ?1 O U3 iO £H 1,1 II I I i Auckland. 1. Annex ..• .. .. 35 6 41i 5 6 2. Epsom . . . . .-. .. 3. Technical College .. ' .. .. 4. University College . . .. ., .. .. .. .. 5. Bowers School of Engineering i . . .. ' 6. Elam School of Art 7. Hemingway and Robertson (Correspondence) 8. Kamo .. .. 9. Rotorua . . . . .. 20 .. 6 .. .. 10. Private coaching .. ' .. 35 I' 41 5; •i ii 7 .. 26 1 1 .. .. 1 :: :: :: ::|:: :: :: :: :: • .. 21 1 169 14 3 :::::: I 6 ■• .. Wellington. 11. Technical School .. 12. Trenthani .. .. 14 ... 7 .. 13 13. Miramar . . .. . . 4.-4.... 14. Napier Military Hospital .. 14 .. 4 .. 5 15. Napier Technical School 16. Correspondence classes 17. Palmerston North Technical ' .. School 20 ■■ 14 4 14 6 .. 7 .. 4 .. 4 .. 13 7 .. 2 J .. 2 ; 2 ! ! '.'. '.'. '.'.\ '.'. 30 9 '.. 11 .. 37; 1 ..! 4 ..12 11 ; . .. ... J ...... ... 1 .. 1 1 .. 1 .. .. 1 .. 3. . . .. 1 . . 10 5 . . . . H 10 .. .. 1 4 ti 1 1 4 1 .. .. '.'. '.'. .. .'. .. 1 1 .. .'. 17 IS 2 i 24 ; ; 43 2 1 .. , 38 . . .. 4 23 .. 23 6 15 8 .. .. 8 7 '• ■■ 6 .. 8 ..j .. .. I • • 8 15 6 2 j 3 .. 5 .. .. 1 .. .. .7 8 8 17 2 4 3 1 1 1 3 5 12!) 21 I 68 1 79 .. 14 23 15 31 .. 1 43, 2 1 26 13 7 76 7 4 10 23 Iff 1 11 3 1 2 ..138 .. .. .. 2 13 65 21 40 19 2 5 .. 1 ■■ ■■ ..' ..I Canterbury. 18. Technical College .. | .. .. 19. School of Art •' .. .. .. 20. Cantab. College (vacation) 21. School of Engineering (vacation) 22. Chalmers Military Orthopaedic 8 .. 24 .. 38 Hospital 23. Hanmer . . .. ...... 32 .... 24. Timaru Military Hospital .. I .. 11.. .. 25. Timaru Technical School 26. St, Saviour's .. 27. Correspondence classes 28. Y.M.C.A. Annex .. .. .. ..! 24 .. "I 38 .. .. .. 38 1113 140 32 .. 11 .. 177 26 - . ■• •■ 1 :: :: :: :: :: :: :: :: ::! I • • 23 Otago. 29. Montecillo Home .. I .. 30. Dunedin Hospital .. 31. Technical School .. 32. Correspondence classes .* .. 33. University . . 34. Invereargill .- \ ■■ ■■ 'I ! - •• * .. ..! .. .. ...... .. 62 7 5 2 I I 1 ! , •1 iA .. ..... 16 :: :: ::.« 16 161 ■• ••! .... 129 5 •■ 5 2 49 .. .. 1 .. .. 2 1 • • i 5 I I , Totals .. ..96 6129J 5 62 i 6 ! 7 2 ll 1 1 1989 — 989 I