PRISONS (REPORT ON) FOR THE YEAR 1937-38.

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1938 Session I, H-20

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1938. NEW ZEALAND.

PRISONS (REPORT ON) FOR THE YEAR 1937-38.

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

The Hon. the Minister of Justice to His Excellency the Governor-General. Wellington, 29th July, 1938. I have the honour to submit to Your Excellency the report on the prisons and borstals of the Dominion for the year 1937-38. I have, &c., H. G. R. Mason, Minister of Justice.

The Controller-General of Prisons to the Hon. the Minister op Justice. Sir, — I have the honour to present the annual report of the Prisons Department for the financial year ended 31st March, 1938, and the criminal statistics for the calendar year ending 31st December, 1937, together with reports from the controlling officers of the various institutions administered by the Department. These reports outline in detail the numerous activities carried on at the several institutions for occupational and reclamative purposes. Prison Statistics. Although the daily average in custody has continued steadily to decline, the number for 1937 being 865, as compared with 1,005 for the previous year, the aggregate number of receptions has increased slightly, the total number received during 1937 being 3,966, which is 153 more than the total for 1936. This aggregate includes inter-institutional transfers and those admitted on short sentence more than once during the year. The number of distinct persons received was 1,991, as compared with 1,790 for the previous year.

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The following table sets out in comparative form the number of receptions, discharges, and the daily averages for the past five years : —

Receptions and Discharges, &c.

Note. —These figures include inter-institutional transfers. The ratio of the daily average number in custody to the general population is 5-43 per 10,000, which is the lowest figure on record, but the ratio of distinct persons received to each 10,000 of the population is 1-16 higher than for the previous year. The following table of figures shows the downward trend in recent years. It should be noted that receptions, for the purpose of these statistics, include all persons received under sentence regardless of the shortness of duration. This fact should be kept in mind when comparing the figures with statistics of countries overseas. Ratio of Prisoners to Year. 10,000 of Population. 1890 .. . .. .. .. .. .. .. 38-61 1910 .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 32•45 1914 .. .. .. .. .. .. .. ..31-05 1932 .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 22-29 1933 .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 17.75 1934 .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 15.33 1935 .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 13-70 1936 11-36 1937 .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 12.52 The following table shows the nature of the offences, classified under three main headings, for the past five years : —

Nature of Offences.

The increase of 201 over the previous year's total is made up mainly by the increase in offences against property, under which heading falls an increase of 50 offences for theft, 26 for fraud and false pretences, and 9 for forgery. To be added to these is an increase under the heading " Miscellaneous offences," the principal increase in this connection being approximately 100 additional imprisonments for drunkenness and related offences. An analysis of the offences shows that fraud, thieving, and drunkenness substantially account for the increase in the number of prisoners received during the year. Having regard to the nature of these offences and the generally improved industrial conditions prevailing, it is apparent that the plea of economic necessity cannot be advanced as an extenuating factor by those involved. The lapses have been due not so much to lack of opportunities, as to failure to take proper advantage of them, especially the opportunity to occupy spare time satisfactorily. The cause of crime in New Zealand would appear to be more social than economic in origin. Nationality of Prisoners.—The following table shows in comparative form the nationality of persons received into prison during the past six years. In contrast with the figures for last year it will be observed that the number of New Zealand born, and more especially Maoris, has increased. The type of Maori youth received at the Borstals in recent years is particularly undisciplined and difficult to handle. Intelligence tests and mental examinations disclose that a relatively small percentage of offenders have not a normal capacity to discern right from wrong, or are feebly inhibited, hence it is evident that the majority of criminal conduct amongst young New-Zealanders arises from a slackening-up of moral standards and a drift from a socially acceptable ethical code.

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I | 1932. 1933. 1934. 1935. 1936. 1937. Number in custody at the beginning of year 1,657 1,583 1,443 1,234 1,150 962 Number received during the year .. 6,179 5,087 4,529 4,159 3,813 3,966 Number discharged or transferred .. 6,253 5,228 4,135 4,243 4,001 4,093 Number in custody at end of year .. 1,583 1,443 1,236 1,150 962 835 Daily average in custody .. .. 1,669 1,543 1,360 1,212 1,005 866

y Mr Offences against ! Offences against Miscellaneous _ , , the Person. ! Property. Offences. Total. 1937 .. .. 191 675 1,125 1,991 1936 .. .. 189 599 1,002 1,790 1935 .. .. 175 887 1,096 2,158 1934 .. .. 155 889 1,332 2,376 1933 .. .. 196 1,048 1,487 2,731

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I have previously stressed that crime-prevention commences in the home and its environment. There are marked indications of an urgent need for an earlier inculcation of the principles and obligations of citizenship. Detention in a Borstal institution or a reformatory for reclamative purposes at best is a negative force—like an ambulance at the bottom of the precipice. It is much more difficult to extirpate bad habits arising from baneful early environmental influences than to approach the problem in a positive way by developing early the homely virtues of honesty, truthfulness, and a due regard for the rights of others. Those who grow up in a right atmosphere and are trained to right standards of conduct usually run true to form. They do not need to inquire whether dishonesty of a particular kind is criminal or not. They are impelled by a sense of noblesse oblige.

Nationality of Prisoners.

Hereunder is set out in tabular form the prisoners received during the year, classified in agegroups, and for the purpose of comparison similar figures for the past quinquennium are shown. The increase, it will be observed, is fairly evenly distributed over each age-group, but it is unhappy to observe that in contrast with the figures for the previous year there has been a fairly pronounced increase in the number of young offenders under the ages of twenty and twenty-five years : —

The following table gives an analysis according to the term of sentence imposed, showing the proportion of each group to the total number of persons received. It will be observed that substantially the greater proportion of persons admitted to prison are sentenced to short terms, over 60 per cent, of the total number received being for sentences under three months. These short sentences are imposed by the Courts primarily for punitive and deterrent purposes. The regimen of a modern prison is organized on humanitarian lines and designed mainly with a view to bringing about the reformation of offenders, and it is questionable whether a short sentence served under the ameliorated conditions of to-day fulfils an effective purpose. Time is an essential element in habitformation as well as in the matter of affording an opportunity to provide some form of vocational training calculated to assist the offender to earn an honest livelihood on release. Time also is an important factor from a punitive point of view, for loss of liberty, apart from the stigma and disgrace, is virtually the only punishment that imprisonment under present-day conditions involves.

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New Zealand n •+• v A Year. horn (excluding Maoris. VI 1S ! an Total. Maoris). Forei g n " 1937 .. .. 1,383 257 351 1,991 1936 .. .. 1,022 199 569 1,790 1935 .. .. 1,256 226 676 2,158 1934 .. .. 1,416 211 749 2,376 1933 .. .. 1,604 253 874 2,731 1932 .. .. 1,941 316 1,144 3,401

i I ' I I Age-group. j 1933. 1934. 1935. , 1936. j 1937. Under 20 .. .. 175 120 131 96 115 20-25 .. .. 459 391 350 285 303 25-30 .. .. 403 343 321 254 282 30-40 .. .. 747 640 545 437 456 40 and upwards .. 937 878 809 715 831 Not stated .... 10 4 2 3 4 Totals .. j 2,731 2,376 2,158 1,790 1,991

„ , , _ . Percentage to Total , Number of Prisoners. Number sentenced, lerm of sentences. 1936. 1937. 1936. 1937. Under one month. .. .. .. 752 808 42-0 40-5 One month and under three months .. 371 413 20-7 20-8 Three months and under six months .. 218 230 12-2 11-8 Six months and under twelve months .. 132 155 7-4 7-8 One year and under three years .. .. 234 303 13-1 15-4 Three years and under five years .. .. 59 72 3-3 3-2 Five years and over .. .. .. 24 10 1-3 0-5 Totals .. .. .. 1,790 1,991 100-0 100-0

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As mentioned in earlier reports, unless the circumstances relating to an offence a,re such as to call for serious punishment, it would seem to be preferable to have recourse to some alternative to imprisonment by way of probation, &c., rather than to minimize the initial dread of imprisonment by requiring the offender to serve a short term less irksome than he anticipated. Short sentences as an alternative to the payment of fines is an unsatisfactory feature of our present methods of dealing with offenders, swelling as they do the total of receptions to prison, and it is hoped that shortly it will be practicable to introduce legislation along the lines of the Money Payments Act in England. It is interesting to observe in the last report of the English Prison Commissioners that imprisonments for non-payment of fines fell, in England, from 10,542 in 1935, to 7,022 in 1936, the first year in which the Act was in operation. Punishments and Infractions of Discipline. Capital Punishment.—No executions took place during the year. Floggings. —No floggings were administered. Corporal Punishment. —Recourse has not been had to corporal puuishment or mechanical restraint upon any refractory prisoner for a breach of the Prisons Regulations for many years. There is no statutory provision for any form of corporal punishment for breach of discipline in either prisons or Borstals in New Zealand. It is interesting to observe that the special Committee recently set up in England to deal with the subject of corporal punishment recommended the retention of this form of punishment as an ultimate sanction in prison discipline. Our experience is that the necessity for rigorous methods diminishes in inverse ratio to the development of humanitarian standards. Escapes. —During the year 22 persons escaped, and all were recaptured. Eleven of these were from Borstals and 11 from the prisons. The number is not higher than the average, and, as has been mentioned previously, at the farms and camps, where a greater degree of trust is reposed in the inmates, greater opportunities for escape exist. In view of the few cases in which the trust is abused it is considered that the risk taken is justified, as undoubtedly the reposing of trust, an essential ingredient of the honour system is an important factor in the development of self-reliance and self-respect. Institutional Activities. The necessity of economy of space precludes a detailed recital of the many and varied activities carried on at the several institutions under the Department's control, but these are described at some length in the institutional reports annexed hereto, and a glance at them will reveal the methods adopted by the Department with a view to the reformation of those committed to its care. The general basis of classification in vogue is founded largely upon age, character, and criminal propensity. The methods used at each institution are designed to provide a milieu most calculated to promote habits of industry and self-reliance, and to stimulate the impulse to live more worthily and at the same time to equip the offender vocationally so that he can be readily absorbed as a useful member of the community on his release. With this objective in view a wide range of socializing influences are brought to bear. Extensive educational facilities are provided, under which scheme, in addition to the more formal teaching of those of primary grade, there are special classes and regular lectures designed to develop a sense of social responsibility and a higher cultural appreciation. As one institutional teacher has aptly stated in his report: " The aim has been to quicken an intelligent interest in current topics, augmented by studies of summaries of economic, geographic, and historic changes in world affairs . . . provision is made for different abilities within the classes ... an endeavour is made to make New Zealand history and civics a ' live ' subject." In addition to the formal educational classes, W.E.A. lectures and other lectures are regularly held, and at several institutions first-aid classes and life-saving courses are provided. Every institution is now equipped with a wireless, and suitable radio programmes are regularly given. Films are used at several institutions for educational purposes, and at present plans are in train for the regular exhibition of educational and topical sound-films at the farms and camps. Special attention is given to library facilities, and at every institution there is a wide range of reading-matter. The Department provides an extensive list of magazines, both technical and fictional, and during the year several libraries were augmented by the acquisition of books through the medium of a gift from Lord Nuffield. In the local controlling officer's reports on the Borstals it will be seen that emphasis is placed on training and education rather than on punishment, the aim being to inspire a better appreciation of the ethical values to create a more understanding and purposeful objective in life. Throughout the training the ideals of citizenship, and the necessity for combating anti-social habits and the effects of undesirable early environmental influences, are stressed. During the last two years modern mechanical plant has been installed in connection with the various intra-mural activities carried on. This has not only enabled the industrial output to be maintained, notwithstanding the heavy fall in the number of prisoners, but it affords an opportunity for those engaged, in these industries to obtain valuable experience in the use of up-to-date plant and machinery, thus aiding them in securing and holding employment at their particular trade on release. On the farms far greater use than hitherto has been made of mechanical aids. In this industry also the work now affords greater opportunities of gaining experience in up-to-date methods. New Zealand being mainly a primary industrial country, farming, of course, furnishes the greatest scope for useful training and offers the readiest avenues of employment when inmates are released, besides causing the least competitive friction with private enterprise.

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At the Invercargill Borstal modern machinery has been installed with a view to providing facilities for technical instruction in woodwork, boot-repairing, and various phases of metal work and fitting, and, in addition, several technical classes in artisan trades are taught by qualified instructors. A fully balanced round of educational activities, hard work, and industrial training, plus recreation facilities, constitutes the general basis of the scheme of reclamation in vogue in our penal institutions. This, coupled with a careful regard for the physical and mental well-being of inmates, through the provision of fresh nourishing food and healthy occupations, as far as possible in the open air, conduces to the attainment of the best results from a practical point of view. The spiritual and moral well-being is also regarded as of primary importance, and this is catered for by the regular visiting Ministers of the various religious denominations and other social workers who regularly visit the institutions and take a personal interest in the inmates. All concerned in the care of the inmates strive to make a careful study of their personalities with a view to understanding and assisting them to overcome their difficulties and weaknesses. The results of an administration dealing with human equations cannot be expressed in balancesheet figures (though in this respect, from a practical point of view, it is recognized that the most eifective marshalling of the available labour and the efficient management of industries keep down the cost to the general taxpayer, and at the same time afford an added interest to those employed) nor can the results be entirely demonstrated by means of statistics. Nonetheless it is interesting to observe that with respect to the first point the revenue earned by the Department last year was £69,075, and with respect to the second point, that (apart from petty recidivists upon whom short sentences have little or no effect, and habitual criminals who are more or less wedded to a life of crime), of all those released after serving sentences of reformative detention or other substantial terms of imprisonment, only 21 per cent, have relapsed into crime, and of those who have passed through the Borstal institutions since their inception only slightly over 14- per cent, have again appeared before the Courts. Revenue and Expenditure. A detailed comparative statement of expenditure and revenue for the past ten years is hereunder : —

The year ended 31st March, 1938, showed a prison-earned revenue totalling £69,075. This is slightly more than the amount earned during the previous year, and in view of the lower prison population the result can be considered satisfactory. This revenue averaged £81 per prisoner which is higher per head than any previous year on record. As was to be expected, due primarily to the rise in costs of materials and to the effect of the salary increases and shortened hours involving additions to the staff, the gross expenditure of £164,132 was approximately £17,800 higher than the previous year. The net vote increase after deducting the increased revenue was £17,400. The principal increases are under the following headings :— £ Salaries . . . . .. . . .. .. .. 5,900 Purchase of Foodstuffs .. .. .. .. .. 1,350 Farm Expenditure .. .. .. .. .. .. 10,600 The last-mentioned, item is larger than usual, due to the fact that the autumn live-stock and fertilizer purchases were made earlier than usual and payment for same was cleared before the 31st March, instead of as normally in April. The current year will be relieved of considerable expenditure under this head in consequence. The rise in expenditure was exceptional, but it is still below that of the years immediately preceding the depression. On a per capita basis of prison population the gross expenditure is higher than eight years ago, but, of course, this is inevitable as the diminished musters reduce the spread of the total cost. In considering this cost it should be borne in mind that this does not all represent the cost of maintaining prisoners. In New Zealand the rather unique position obtains that a prisoner's dependants are also maintained by the Department to the extent of £1 6s. Bd. per week, but, in

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Daily Gross Expenditure. ; Credits. Net Expenditure. Year. i . 7 7 .Number of Inmates. Total. Per Head. Total, j Per Head. Total. : Per Head. £ £ £ £ £ £ 1928-29 .. .. 1,502 163,451 108-83 73,994 49-27 89,457 59-56 1929-30 .. .. 1,425 172,248 120-83 83,806 58-87 88,442 62-04 1930-31 .. .. 1,525 171,382 112-36 70,669 46-33 100,713 66-03 1931-32 .. .. 1,641 152,581 92-93 55,867 34-03 96,714 58-90 1932-33 .. .. 1,661 142,940 86-04 52,412 31-84 90,528 54-49 1933-34 .. .. 1,488 138,193 92-88 54,823 36-77 83,370 56-11 1934-35 .. .. 1,306 137,484 105-25 60,242 46-12 77,242 59-13 1935-36 .. .. 1,170 144,460 123-47 69,933 59-77 74,527 63-70 1936-37 .. .. 985 146,314 148-54 68,661 69-70 77,653 78-83 1937-38 .. .. 852 164,132 192-64 69,075 81-07 95,057 111-56

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addition to this, there is included in the annual appropriation for prison administration a large sum for farm-development and reclamation work which, strictly speaking, is of a capital nature, and although it is shown in the annual costs it is used in creating a valuable national asset which must be set off against the cost of prison administration. An important factor contributing to the net increase in expenditure is that the labour available, after making provision for domestic and routine service, is so much reduced. The number of prisoners suitable for employment on the farms, roadworks, workshops, /fee., is in much less proportion to the total musters than a few years ago. Further, the general efficiency of the labour is rather below the standards of the past. This has resulted in a heavy curtailment of quarry and roadwork activities, which previously contributed a considerable proportion of the Department's revenue. Farm work and other shop industries, which are essential to the Department's own domestic economy and which cannot be curtailed without involving the sacrifice of a measure of part expenditure, have been maintained by a judicious mechanization of these industries, and it is of interest to note that, besides having increased the vocational value of the work, with approximately half the number of prisoners that were in custody five and six years ago, the revenue last year was in the vicinity of £70,000, as compared with £56,000 and £53,000 for the earlier years mentioned. The higher cost of salaries, due to additional appointments to staff following the introduction of the shortened week in conformity with Government's policy in 1936, and the general regrading increases approved by the Commissioners in 1937, now requires provision of £11,000 more annually under this head than a few years ago. A further feature involving additional expenditure is the general trend towards providing additional amenities in the way of a variety of food, cultural entertainment, and the vocational training of prisoners. The provision of improved and less drablooking clothing to both male and female Borstal inmates has been a recent worth-while innovation. The installation of radio has involved some additional appropriation, though in this connection it should be mentioned that nearly all the wireless sets were provided by voluntary effort. Industries and Development. The following sets out the special features in connection with industries and development at the various institutions during the year : — Mount Eden Prison. —The bootshop has been completely mechanized by the installation of up-to-date plant, which now enables the footwear for the inmates and for all mental hospitals to be supplied in better quality and more expeditiously than hitherto, and at the same time provides a valuable vocational training to the prisoners engaged on the work. In the clothing shop an electric cloth-cutter and several new mail-bag-darning machines were procured to cope with the steadily increasing post-office mail-bag repair work undertaken at the prison. In the prison kitchen a new oil-burning stove has been installed. Waikeria Borstal Farm. —The orchard has now been improved by the installation of a high-pressure-motor spraying-plant and the construction of an up-to-date orchard sorting-room and storeroom. A new and improved farm store facilitates the handling of stores and enables a better check to be maintained on issues. The freezer installed in connection with the supply of meat and milk to Mount Eden is a valuable improvement and will result in considerable economy. Waikune Prison. —Roadwork construction and maintenance was carried out during the year, but on account of the reduced musters it was found necessary to relinquish a considerable section of the roads previously maintained by the Department, and the work is now being confined mainly to the supplying of metal. Hautu and Rangipo Development Farms. —The number of acres now in grass or temporary cultivation is as follows : Hautu, 4,464: acres ; Rangipo, 3,201 acres. A more general farm programme is being pursued with a view to consolidating the country already broken in. Further development-work is being held in abeyance for the time being on account of the diminished musters. Point Halswell. —The laundry-work for other Departments is gradually increasing and is providing useful employment of vocational value to the inmates. During the year it was found necessary to install an additional electric ironing-machine. Payarua Prison. —The reduced musters made the fulfilling of orders for quarry products difficult, but this has now, to a considerable extent, been overcome by the installation of a mechanical loader. This has increased the capacity of the quarry, and has also proved a convenience to carriers whose vehicles can be loaded with a minimum loss of time. Invercargill Borstal. —The installation of a mechanized laundry equipment has proved very successful and has enabled a number of lads to be released for outside work on the farm. The farm, which has been built up from an estuary reclamation, had for a number of years presented the Department with a seemingly hopeless task to keep it reasonably dry for carrying healthy stock throughout the year. With the installation of modern electric water-pumps within the last twelve months a very big improvement in the general condition of the farm has been effected.. With the establishment of a Shorthorn dairy herd it is hoped that the general conditions of the farm and its production will, from now on, show steady improvement. Attention has been given to the tepid heating of the swimming-bath, and this has undoubtedly proved an appreciated amenity. Health of Prisoners. The health of the prisoners has been uniformly good throughout the year, there being no illnesses of an epidemic character. The daily average on the sick list was 12-88, which represents T5 per cent, of the total average in custody. There were 57 admissions to the hospital and there were 3 deaths during the year, 1 from cerebral thrombosis, 1 from heart-failure, and 1 from suicide by hanging.

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The Medical Officers, in addition to undertaking the care of the sick, examine all prisoners before transfer from the city prisons to the farms and camps. Where it is considered that a mental examination would assist in the treatment of a prisoner this is arranged through the Mental Hospitals Department, which Department's specialist officers co-operate in a most helpful manner. Four prisoners were transferred to mental hospitals under the provisions of section 34 of the Mental Defectives Act; 4 were transferred for special observation under section 37, and 14 were transferred after sentence under the provisions of section 38. The infirmary at Mount Eden has been renovated, and certain essential improvements for the comfort of sick prisoners have been effected. A sick bay has been provided at Waikeria, where special attention has been given to light, ventilation, and warmth, and this will provide a long-felt want for the treatment of those suffering from minor ailments, but, as heretofore, the more serious cases will be sent into hospital. The institution infirmary at the Invercargill Borstal has beeri thoroughly renovated and modernized and equipped with up-to-date convenient hospital furnishings. This portion of the institution has been placed in charge of the Matron, under the guidance of the Institution Medical Officer. Part of the duty of Medical Officers is to inspect from time to time the rations supplied, and the reports indicate that these are liberal and well balanced. The scale of rations prescribes minimal quantities only. In actual practice the issues are generous and the scale is usually exceeded. Complaints in respect of food are exceedingly rare, and it is found that prisoners almost invariably thrive and improve in physical condition on the regular dietary provided. Conclusion. The work of the Department has been materially helped by the generous assistance of a large body of voluntary workers who have visited the institutions and have undertaken the after-care and placement of discharged prisoners. In this connection I desire to mention specially the Women's Borstal Association, the Young Men's Borstal Association, the Visiting Committees, the Prisoners' Aid Societies, the Probation Committees, and the Justices Association. I desire to place on record my appreciation of the friendly co-operation and assistance given by the clergymen and missioners of the various religious denominations, the officers of the Salvation Army and others who have regularly visited the institutions to minister to the spiritual well-being of the prisoners. I also wish to express my appreciation of your own generous and sympathetic consideration, and to record my grateful thanks to the officers of the Department for their loyal support during the year. B. L. Dallard, Controller-General of Prisons.

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PRISONS AND PENAL INSTITUTIONS : EPITOME OF REPORTS OF CONTROLLING OFFICERS. Auckland Prison. (Superintendent, Mr. W. T. Legcett.) At the commencement of the year there were 208 males and 8 females in custody. During the year 1,165 males and 55 females were received, whilst 1,193 males and 50 females were discharged or otherwise disposed of, leaving in custody at the end of the year 180 males and 13 females. There was an increase of receptions during the year of 161 males and 11 females. It is also desired to mention that of the 1,165 males admitted, 102 of these were received as second offenders. The health of the prisoners generally has been good, sickness in most cases being of a minor nature, and in some cases attributable to a condition prior to reception. There were no deaths during the year and there were 11 males and 1 female transferred to the public hospital for operative and other treatment that could not be carried out in the prison infirmary. There were 25 males and 4 females received into prison requiring treatment for venereal disorders. As previously, Dr. Tewsley, as Medical Officer, has given every attention to those prisoners requiring medical attention, thus keeping a low daily average of sick to 2-28 males and 0-19 females. It is pleasing to record the absence of any infection and that the standard of health has been so good taking into account the number of derelicts and physically unfit individuals received here. There was only one individual received under a capital charge during the year, and this case was eventually committed to a mental hospital. I have to express appreciation of the continued co-operation of the Medical Superintendent of the Auckland Mental Hospital, who has so readily conducted examinations of prisoners showing mental abnormality, thus indicating a suitable line of action in such cases. The conduct generally of the prisoners has been good, there being no escapes or attempted escapes during the year. Disciplinary punishment for breaches of regulations was administered in 49 cases by Visiting Justices, and the whole of such offences were of a minor nature. The industrial activities of the prison have been fully carried on during the year with satisfactory results, especially in connection with supplying the requirements of other Departments. The boot-factory has been fully equipped with modern British bootmaking-machines, and with this plant it is now possible to give technical instruction to suitable prisoners on modern methods of boot and shoe manufacture, thus giving them the opportunity of becoming proficient operatives, and further to fully supply all footwear required by Mental Hospitals Department and to Prisons General Store for distribution to other prisons. The tailoring workshop has fully met the clothing requirements of the prison and other Departments requiring same. Also the full requirements of the Post and Telegraph Department in laundering and repairing mail and parcel bags has been carried out, and there were 25,000-odd bags dealt with in this direction during the year. A considerable amount of laundry-work has been carried out for other Departments, including washing several thousand blankets for the Defence Department after use at the various military camps. Tinsmithing and carpentering work has been actively carried on in the respective workshops, and all depa tmental requirements have been supplied. The manufacture of tobacco, principally from Waikeria Farm grown leaf, is still carried on, and the requirements of the whole of the prison institutions, amounting to 3,513| lb., have been dealt with, and the recent installation of a new tobacco-cutting machine has materially helped in that direction. Quarry and crushing metal screenings is still carried on, but to a much lesser extent than formerly, and this industry, owing to decreased prison population, is only an outlet for that class of labour not suitable for country prisons or industrial workshops. The vegetable garden here continues to be a valuable asset and is providing the whole of the institutional requirements of greens and other vegetables, excepting potatoes. During the year considerable exterior and interior renovation has been given to all prison residences, also extensive interior renovations has been given to prison cells and corridors. The institutional school under the direction of Dr. W. S. Dale, and assisted by a member of the staff has made excellent progress, as indicated in the schoolmaster's report attached. In addition, there has been evening lectures given periodically under the auspices of the W.E.A., and these have been both educative and instructional. A first-aid class conducted by the St. John Ambulance Association has been continued, and the lectures were given by Dr. McDougall, assisted by Ambulance Officer Mr. J. Cummings and the Rev. Moreton, of the Discharged Prisoners' Aid Society. Keen interest has been taken by this class, and the majority of the class received very creditable passes. A physical-drill class is conducted in the evenings twice weekly under the direction of a member of the staff, with beneficial results to those employed in workshops and others requiring physical development. Monthly entertainments, mostly vocal and instrumental, have been given under arrangement of interested social workers, visiting clergymen, and Salvation Army. A wireless-reception system provided by the Returned Soldiers' Radio Club under direction of Mr. R. Talbot has been installed with speakers to each yard for use at week-ends, also earphones are provided in the cells of longsentence prisoners for evening use twice weekly.

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The several organizations which in past years have provided Christmas cheer for the inmates during the festive season have again contributed freely, with the result that each individual received an adequate supply of extras, and this has been much appreciated by the inmates. The spiritual welfare of the prisoners have been well cared for by clergymen of the various denominations, who have held regular Sunday services and have given individual visits. The food supplied has been of good quality, with special mention of the excellent meat that has been supplied from the Waikeria Borstal Farm. The bread has been baked in the institution bakery and has been of excellent' quality. I desire to make special reference to the assistance given to prisoners on discharge by the Discharged Prisoners' Aid Society (Rev. Moreton, Secretary) and Salvation Army Industrial Home (Major Perry, Manager), who have at all times done every reasonable thing possible to assist in rehabilitation. Thanks are also due to Rev. Vickery, Port Chaplain, for his untiring effort to obtain berths for suitable individuals desiring to return to their country of origin to rejoin friends and relatives. The conduct of the staff generally has been very satisfactory, and a suitable standard of industry and discipline has been maintained by them throughout the past year. The clerical and store staff under the direction of the principal clerk have dealt with that phase of the institutional work in an efficient and expeditious manner. Gtsborne Prison. (Gaoler, Mr. D. Davies.) At the beginning of the year there were 8 males in custody. Received during the year 84 males and 1 female. Discharged, transferred, or otherwise disposed of during the same period, 90 males and 1 female. In custody on the night of 31st December, 1937, 2 males. The health and conduct of the prisoners throughout the year have been good. The employment consisted of gardening, laundry-work, and clothing repairs. Messrs. L. C. Morris and D. J. Heffernan visited the prison regularly during the year and conducted Divine services. Hautu Prison. (Officer in Charge, Mr. T. Banks.) At the commencement of the year there were 32 male prisoners in custody. During the year 34 male prisoners were received from other prison institutions, 38 were released or otherwise disposed of, leaving in custody on the night of the 31st December, 1937, 28 prisoners. The health of the prisoners was good. There were of course, the usual number of minor ailments calling for attention during the year, but there were no cases calling for lengthy hospital treatment. I regret to report that one of the inmates collapsed one morning, and despite every effort to revive him he passed away about eighteen hours later without regaining consciousness. The cause of the death was cerebral thrombosis. The Medical Officer made frequent visits to the institution and gave every attention to those requiring medical treatment. The usual facilities were granted inmates requiring dental attention. Religious services were arranged during the year by visiting chaplains from Waahi and Taupo. Regular supplies of reading-matter were received from the Mayoress's (Auckland) War Memorial Library League, and a consignment of reconditioned books were received from Wellington Prison. All literature received was placed in the institution library and was made available for use by the inmates. The purchase of a five-valve Ultimate radio-receiving set was made during the year. This unit is giving good service, and radio entertainments are now available to the inmates each night and throughout the week-ends. Our special thanks are due to the Rev. J. Laughton (Presbyterian Minister) at Taupo and the Christchurch Branch of the Howard League for Penal Reform for donations of cake, fruit, and sundry other edibles made available to the prisoners at Christmas-time. Extra tobacco provided by the Department was issued to the inmates on Christmas Day. It is pleasing to report the total absence of complaints regarding the quality and the quantity of rations issued during the year. All purchased lines were up to standard. A plentiful supply of assorted vegetables were obtained from the prison garden, and potatoes, beef, mutton, and pork was obtained from the farm. Bread of good quality was manufactured in the prison bakery. The prison buildings and lawns were kept in good order during the year. A fireplace and chimney were erected in the common-room to provide warmth for the inmates during cold weather. Major renovations were carried out at Nos. 1 and 2 cottages. Due to the appointment of married officers to the staff at Hautu Prison the housing question had become acute, and in order to relieve the position a cottage was transferred from Waikune Prison and re-erected at this institution. A new slaughterhouse was erected to provide better facilities for the slaughtering of live-stock for rations. As in the past two or three years, very little work involving capital expenditure was carried out during 1937. Work coming under that heading was confined to subdivisional fencing or making some of the existing fences sheep-proof. Our mixed-farming activities were carried on without interruption. In the sheep section a wool clip of 45 bales (weight, 6 tons 12 cwt. 2 qr. 19 lb.) was obtained from approximately 1,842 sheep shorn ; 965 lambs were taken on charge during the season ; 462 sheep were sold, and 30 were killed for rations, Sheep-skins were sold at satisfactory prices.

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Fifty-seven head of cattle were sold and another 30 were killed for prison rations. Steps were taken to improve the breed of cattle on the property, and to that end 128 Polled Angus heifers and 1/ ,Tu ngu ® bulls were purchased in the Hawke's Bay District. They are a fine line of cattle and should bring about the required improvement in our type of live-stock. Our pig-raising section is still run on a small scale. A line of young pigs was purchased during the year with our view to extending this line of our industries. One hundred and twenty weaners were disposed oi during the year, and two pigs were slaughtered for rations. on, The f o llow j n g crops were harvested during the year: 250 tons of hay, 230 tons ensilage, 30 tons oaten sheaf, 500 tons swedes, and 30 tons potatoes. tu ™P s were retained for maintenance of live-stock on the farm. Approximately tons of potatoes were disposed of and the balance were held for local use. We continued with our campaign of reducing the number of rabbits on the property. Systematic steps have been taken to eradicate the pest by means of poisoning, trapping, and the use of special carbon-monoxide appliances for destroying rabbits in their burrows. In conclusion, I desire to thank the stafE for their loyal co-operation throughout the vear. Napier Prison. (Gaoler, Mr. C. J. McMullin.) At the beginning of the year there were 15 male prisoners in custody. During the year 160 males and 4 females were discharged or transferred, leaving 15 male prisoners in custody at the end of the year, iiie daily average number of prisoners in custody during the year was 14-25. No prisoners were admitted to the public hospital, the general health of the prisoners was good. One individual prisoner received treatment for veneral disease during the year. Divine services were conducted by representatives from the St. Vincent de Paul Society and the members of the Gospel Hall; the Salvation Army, together with their band, paid periodical visits, tneir services and music being much appreciated. As in previous years the Colenso Fund has proved most beneficial in giving assistance to prisoners on release and I would express appreciation of the assistance given in this direction by the Vmeent de Paul Society, also to Mr. Robert Magill and the members of the Gospel Hall. unng the year a wireless system has been installed, the cost being covered by donations received irom various residents, who have shown a very sympathetic interest in the welfare of the prisoners ™ rlolls radl ° concerts, given periodically, have met with the appreciation of the inmates. prison quarry has again provided labour for the major portion of the prisoners, and the revenue received from this source has been in keeping with previous years. . prison garden has proved a valuable asset. With the exception of potatoes, the whole of the institutional requirements being supplied from the garden area, while the revenue received has shown an increase. The prison grounds and buildings have been kept in a good state of repair, and a new washhouse has ]ust been completed. At present the drainage system is having our attention. Breadmakmg has been continued with satisfactory results and a saving to the Department our average yield being uniformly high. The conduct of the prisoners has been exceptionally good, only on two ocassions was punishment required to enforce discipline. a M T n e « kS -o° f the Department has been tendered to Mr. J. P. Thomson, Visiting Justice, Mr. J. -j' il 'fV i' ev - H. J Odell, and the members of the Napier Brotherhood, also to the St. Vincent de Paul Society, and to Mr. Robert Magill and the members of the Gospel Hall for their gifts of additional comforts for the prisoners during the festive season. Their practical sympathy was deeply appreciated by the inmates, and those responsible for the gifts may be assured that their efforts were well worth while. In conclusion, I desire to express my appreciation of the co-operation of the staff throughout the year. New Plymouth Prison. (Superintendent, Mr. W. Dineen.) There were 48 male prisoners in custody at the beginning of the year, and during the year 98 were received. During the same period 89 prisoners were discharged, leaving 57 in custody at the end of tne year. There has been little or no change during the year from the routine works carried out at the prison for many years past The work m the quarry is the main occupation, and the bulk of the products are sold to the New Plymouth Borough Council. A number of men are employed in the garden where vegetables are grown for institutional use, the surplus being disposed of in the local auction rooms. A piggery m a small way is a profitable and useful method of using up kitchen and garden waste and this has been successfully continued during the year. A part of the garden wa§. fenced for pigs and sown down m grass, and this is now used for breeding purposes Breadmakmg, soapmaking, and the repairs of institutional footwear and clothing is still carried out and give a useful change of employment. The slaughtering of all meat consumed in the prison is done by prison lahour, and it is gratifying to be able to say that the hides sold at auction are classed by the auctioneer with the best abattoir hides. All meat for human consumption is inspected by the Stock Inspector before issue, One carcass was condemned during the year.

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The Medical Officer has made regular weekly visits, and he has also been very prompt in attending to any emergency calls. There has been no serious illness during the year, and the health of the prisoners has been generally good. Generally speaking, the conduct of the prisoners has been good. No punishments were inflicted by the Visiting Justice during the year. One prisoner escaped from the train during his transfer from here. He was recaptured by the police after twenty-four hours liberty, during which time he had not committed any further crime. A much appreciated change in the ration has been the addition of 2 oz. of butter per day for each man. The introduction of a 42-hour week for the staff has resulted in a forty-hour (five-day) working-week for the prisoners. To enable this routine to be carried out without increasing the time that the prisoners have to spend in their cells, Saturday work has been discontinued. In order to provide recreational occupation for the men during their increased leisure hours a plot in the main exercise yard has been sown down in grass to enable them to play basket-ball, badminton, and other suitable games. Many of the men who, through physical disability, are unable to take part in action games spend a great deal of their idle time in the playing of draughts and chess in the yard during the week-ends. We are indebted to the president and members of the New Plymouth Chess and Draughts Club for the interest they have manifested in coming to the prison one night every month to play these games in competition with the prisoners. These evenings have created a fresh interest in the minds of many prisoners, and must have a helpful influence over them. Once a week a debate is held in which every man is encouraged to take part, and in this sphere, too, the New Plymouth Debating Society have been very helpful. Members of the society have taken the chair at many of the meetings, and occasionally the society has held debates at the prison. Moving-pictures have also been shown, and lantern lectures given during the year. With the assistance of Toc-H, Mr. G. Wigley, a member of the society, has introduced to prisoners interested in this class of work the art of modelling leather into various articles. About six prisoners have taken up this very interesting and useful hobby, and some very fine pieces of work have been produced. This work is done by the men while locked in their cells in the evenings, and must prove of untold value in occupying their minds beneficially during these hours. Mrs. Bason has continued her active interest in the welfare of the prisoners, and her annual tea given at the end of the year is an event appreciated and anticipated by all the prisoners, and although the anticipation is great the realization is greater. One of the gratifying features of the event is the fact that many of the ex-prisoners, some of whom have even left New Zealand, remember it and send tokens of their appreciation. The ministers of the different denominations continue to attend on Sundays, and the spiritual welfare of the prisoners is well-cared for. We have been greatly assisted during the year by the Rev. F. Hart, an Anglican minister, who has given much time to coaching and conducting the prison band. With his help the band has been able to give many recitals, and when donations have been received with which to purchase new music, &c., the moneys have been banked in a trust account operated by Mr. Gilmour-Smith, J.P., and the Rev. Hart. The thanks of the Department are also due to the many citizens who came along at different times so as to provide an audience for the prison concerts. Most of the performances are of sufficient merit to warrant the attendance and approbation of an audience, but some men are highly strung and nervous, and require the tactful demonstration of approval by an audience to help them overcome their nervousness. Paparua Pkison. (Superintendent, Mr. C. E. Spittal.) On the Ist Jaunary, 1937, there were in custody 101 male prisoners. During the year the admissions totalled 473, while 486 were discharged or otherwise disposed of, thus leaving a total of 88 prisoners in custody at the end of the year. The greatest number in custody at any one time was 119, the least 77, the daily average being 96-8. The health of the prisoners throughout the year was uniformly good, sickness being in the main confined to minor ailments and to epidmics of seasonal nature, such as colds. Regular hours of work mainly carried out in the open air, a well-balanced and adequate dietary scale, and ample rest and opportunity for relaxation are all factors which contributed towards a noticeable improvement in the health and general appearance of the prisoners after reception for disciplinary treatment, thereby enhancing the prospects of obtaining employment at suitable vocations upon release. The Medical Officer, Dr. A. C. Thomson, made regular visits to the institution, and in the course of his duties made periodical inspections of the cooking and of the sanitary arrangements, satisfactory reports being given in each case. Cases of venereal disease treated during the year totalled 8, while in 4 cases prisoners were transferred to the control of the Mental Hospitals Department for appropriate treatment and care. The conduct of prisoners throughout the year was very good, such breaches of the disciplinary regulations that did occur being mainly confined to offences of a more or less minor nature. In 8 cases the misdemeanants were dealt with by Visiting Justices, the remaining 10 cases being dealt with by myself. Three prisoners escaped during the year. Two of these escapees absconded together, but their period of liberty was comparatively brief, recapture being effected within a few hours from

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the time they were reported as missing. In the other case the prisoner, who was employed in a trusted position on the farm, absconded on Christmas Day, but voluntarily returned to the institution four days later. At this juncture I desire to record my appreciation of the assistance afforded to the Department by the Visiting Justices to this prison, who, in addition to being available upon request to attend to matters connected with the maintenance of discipline, also manifested a keen interest in the welfare of the prisoners generally and in the carrying-on of the various industrial activities. I also record, with deep regret, the passing of Mr. J. Leslie, who for a number of years capably filled the position of a Visiting Justice to this Institution. The food-supplies have been of first-class quality. Ample quantities of vegetables, of sufficient variety to permit of frequent changes in the menus, were made available from our own garden, while meat for rations was provided from stock fattened and killed on the institution farm. Bread, produced in the prison bakehouse, continues to be of excellent quality. The institution school, maintained for the purpose of assisting those prisoners whose general education has to some extent been retarded, was carried on successfully during the year under the direction and guidance of Mr. P. Schroeder as Schoolmaster. The school was held on two nights each week, and Mr. Schroeder, in reporting on the work of the year, mentioned, inter alia, that, owing to the interest aroused and sustained, discipline throughout had been highly satisfactory, and that the syllabus had been planned with due regard to usefulness as well as to moral and intellectual progress. During the winter months a series of lectures, seventeen in all, were given under the auspices of the Workers' Educational Association. A wide range of subjects was covered by the lecturers, and keen interest was aroused in the discussion of the various topics. I wish to congratulate the executive of the association and the lecturers on the marked success achieved. At regular intervals throughout the year concerts and similiar forms of entertainment were provided for the prisoners by sympathizers acting in a voluntary capacity. The entertainments so given were keenly looked forward to and undoubtedly appreciated by the men, and it is pleasing to have to mention that a high standard of conduct on the part of listeners continues to be the rule at these functions. For the work entailed in organizing the entertainments we are indebted to Mrs. Holmes, the Salvation Army authorities, and the Working Men's Club, while thanks are also due to the many helpers and performers for the excellent entertainment provided. Immediately prior to Christmas, functions appropriate to the occasion were kindly provided by Mrs. Holmes and party and by the Salvation Army, and were an undoubted success. Thanks are due to the above, and also Mr. A. Paynter and the members of the Richmond Mission, for their kind thoughts in the provision of varous forms of Christmas cheer for the prisoners. Early in the year a wireless-receiving set, presented to the prison through the kind offices of Major Thorne, of the Salvation Army Men's Industrial Home, was handed over by the Mayor of Christchurch, Mr. J. W. Beanland, on behalf of the donors, at a special function arranged for that purpose. The innovation has proved to be a most successful one, and due care is being taken in the selection of suitable broadcast subjects. The spiritual needs of the prisoners have been catered for by the representatives of various religious organizations, all denominations receiving adequate service in this respect. The industries of the institution have been maintained as far as possible at a state of efficiency compatible with the labour force available, but with the continually declining muster over the past few years the production returns, particularly in the case of the quarrying industry, have of necessity been somewhat restricted when comparing the results achieved with those of " good " years. Authority has now been obtained for the addition of a mechanical leader to the quarry plant, and when this is received and placed into commission a marked increase in production and sales returns should be achieved. Notwithstanding this, the output from the quarry has been fairly satisfactory under the circumstances, and a good net profit should accrue from the working of the industry. The various quarry products have established a good reputation for quality in Christchurch and the surrounding districts, and at times difficulty is experienced in meeting the demand. The garden and poultry industries have been successfully carried out during the year. In addition to fulfilling our own requirements, a considerable portion of the produce is supplied to the Queen Mary Hospital at Hanmer and to St. Helens Hospital. Any surplus finds a ready market at satisfactory prices. The cultivation of nursery trees, run in conjunction with the garden industry, has been the means of providing numbers of young trees for planting out on the farm as shelter-belts for stock as well as ornamentation purposes. Farming operations have been carried out successfullv during the year under the direction of Mr. H. S. J. Wilson as Farm Manager. Activities on the farm are in the main directed towards the cultivation of root and cereal crops, and the rearing and depasturing of sheep. In the sheep industry, the result of shearing operations was a return of 48 bales of wool, shorn from 1,475 sheep. Notwithstanding a definite drop in selling-prices when compared with the prices ruling in the previous season, a satisfactory return was achieved, the whole clip realizing £743. The lambing percentage was slightly under 118-5 per cent. Good prices were received for the first draft of new season's lambs sent to the local freezing-works. A considerable portion of the farm is set aside for the growing of crops, and the following were harvested during the past year : Potatoes, 145 tons ; wheat, 2,082 bushels ; oats, 1,600 bushels ; oaten sheaves (for chaff), 65 tons ; lucerne hay, 80 tons ; ensilage, 10 tons ; mangolds, 300 tons ; swedes, 860 tons; and peas, 600 bushels. In the pig-raising industry, good progress was made, 159 pigs being disposed of throughout the year.

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In conclusion, it is gratifying to be able to report that the conduct of the staff throughout the year has been very good. Each member of the staff has carried out his duties conscientiously and in a spirit of co-operation, and I desire to record my appreciation for the assistance so afforded me in carrying out the administration of this institution during the year under review. Rangipo Prison. (Officer in Charge, Mr. A. Banks.) At the beginning of the year there were 27 men in custody. During the year 17 were received, 12 transferred to other institutions, and 17 discharged, leaving a total of 15 in custody on 31st December. The health of the prisoners has been good, and there were no admissions to hospital during the year. Divine services were held during the year by the Rev. Father Van Beek, Rev. J. G. Laughton, Mr. J. Moffatt, and Mr. H. L. Furlong. Thanks are due to the Rev. J. G. Laughton, Taupo, and the Christchurch Branch of the Howard League for Penal Reform for the luxuries supplied to the men at Christmas, also to the Mayoress's War Memorial Library League, Auckland, and the Church of Christ Scientist, Wellington, for reading-matter donated. The following is a summary of work carried out during the year ; 21 acres of virgin country cleare ; of tutu and fern, stumped of manuka, and made ready for the plough ; 47 acres ploughed and harrowed ; 127 acres temporary pasture converted to permanent; 20 acres sown direct in permanent pastured 30 acres turnips and 3 acres potatoes sown ; 2,916 acres top-dressed, and 85 chains of fence erected. The prison garden was a success and gave an ample supply of vegetables. The prison buildings were kept in good repair, and a building to accommodate four officers was erected. A new wireless set was installed, and selected programmes are given nightly. The officers carried out their duties in a most satisfactory manner, and gave me their loyal co-operation at all times Waikune Prison (Roadmaking Camp), Erua. (Officer in Charge, Mr. P. McGrath.) At the commencement of the year there were in custody 52 prisoners, and 55 were received during the year. The discharges were 8 on special remissions and 36 on probationary licenses. Altogether 21 prisoners were transferred to other institutions, leaving 42 prisoners in custody at the end of the year. The greatest number of prisoners in detention at any one time was 59, the least 42, the daily average being 45-63. One prisoner escaped during the year, but he was promptly apprehended next day and finally transferred to another prison. Two prisoners were removed to the Raetihi Hospital during the year. Both men sustained injuries at work, and one was discharged upon recovery, while the other is due for discharge early in the New Year. The general health of the men was very good. The Medical Officer and dentist made regular and frequent visits to the prison and their services were availed of by the men. During the year religious services were conducted by the Brethren, Owhango, the Rev. Noakes, Taumarunui, and the Rev. Father McGlone, Ohakune. We record our special thanks to the Christchurch Branch of the Howard League for Penal Reform and to Mr. R. W. Lithgow, Wellington, for their Christmas gifts for prisoners. As in former years, all Christmas cheer was divided equally among the men, and this, together with the extra ration of tobacco, was greatly appreciated by them. With the shorter working-week it was found necessary to provide the prisoners with some form of recreation, and this took the form of tennis, cricket, and quoits. For those men not desiring to indulge in these pastimes a suitable wireless programme was arranged, and in this respect the new commonroom was found to be a decided advantage. Here the men are allowed to play indoor games and listen to the wireless, and on wet days and in the summer evenings this room is particularly useful. Our building programme for 1937 was a substantial one and results were pleasing. The single hutments obtained from the Hautu Prison were arranged in the form of a square and were placed on the electric lighting-system. A new kitchen was erected, and a slide facing the square allowed the prisoners to draw their meals from within the square. The new bathroom provided three showers and five hand basins, while a new lavatory was built at some distance from the hutments. ; The old cell house was strengthened and completely renovated and now provides a new store and common-room with a guard room at one end. The old wooden floor was pulled up and replaced by a concrete floor. Our garden supplied all vegetables for ration purposes, while our bakehouse provided bread for Waikune and Rangipo. The meat for rations was drawn from Rangipo Prison, and we supplemented this by occasionally killing some of our own pigs. Our industrial activities were in the main road-maintenance and cartage. During the year the Public Works Department arranged and took over the maintenance of the Tongariro-Waihi Pah Road and that portion of the Tokaanu Road from the Te Whaiau Bridge to the Tongariro Bridge. To some

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extent this relieved our position as far as labour was concerned, and we were able to concentrate more fully on those sections of roads left to us. Almost at the close of the year the Public Works Department advised us that we would be required to maintain 2 miles 40 chains of the Scoria Flat Road. This is an additional portion of the Bruce Road and has been declared an extension of such. In grading and planing operations we had the use of the V 8 power-grader and the Clectrac tractor and the planer attached. These units were used on all possible occasions. Progress was made with the metalling of the Waimarino-Ohakune Road north and south, and for this purpose metal was drawn from the Makatote Quarry. The Whakapapanui Quarry supplied all metal for the Tokaanu and Bruce Roads. During the snowy weather we were called upon to clear the Scoria Plat Road. Our cartage programme for the year was a fairly substantial one, but was nevertheless carried out expeditiously. The holiday periods saw a greater demand for our lorries for the Chateau cartage as did the manure season for the Rangipo and Hautu Prisons. In conclusion, I desire to thank the stafl for their loyal co-operation. Wanganui Prison. (Gaoler. Mr. H. Robinson.) At the commencement of the year there were 15 males in custody. Received during year, 85 males and 7 females. Discharged during year, 85 males and 6 females, leaving in custody at end of year 15 males and 1 female. The health of the prisoners has been good on the whole, there being 5 prisoners sick during the year with minor complaints. There was 1 admission to hospital for observation. The conduct of the prisoners has been good, there being 2 cases of minor prison oflences against a prisoner, which were dealt with by the Visiting Justice. The prisoners have been employed keeping the prison grounds in order and growing vegetables and potatoes for the prison, and laundry work for the prison and Police Department, and cleaning and keeping the interior of the prison in a sanitary condition, and also cooking the rations and repairing the prison clothing. Divine service was held every Sunday and conducted by the various denominations. The thanks of the Department were tendered to the members of the Church of Christ for their kindness once again in giving the prisoners a sit-down tea on Christmas Day, and also the band of gentlemen who have organized and given concerts for the prisoners during the year. The members of the staff have performed their duties in an efficient manner, and have been loyal and co-operative. Wellington Peison. (Superintendent, Mr. W. E. Stewart.) At the commencement of the year there were 116 males in custody. During the year 749 males were received, whilst 788 were discharged or otherwise disposed of, leaving in prison on the nisht of 31st December, 1937, 77 males. The health of the prisoners has been very good, sickness being mostly confined to colds, minor ailments, &c. The greatest number of cases of sickness at any one time was 6, and considering the number of derelict and physically unfit individuals received here this may be considered low. The number of admissions to hospital during the year was 4, and these were cases requiring treatment, &c., as the result of ailments contracted prior to their detention in prison. There were 20 males received into prison during the year suffering from venereal disease. These were segregated and received daily treatment in the prison and also once weekly at the Wellington Public Hospital Clinic. One case was admitted to the hospital for treatment. The conduct of the prisoners generally has been very good. There were no escapes or attempted escapes during the year. There were 9 breaches of the regulations, these being of a minor nature, and were all dealt with by myself. The food-supplies have been of an excellent quality, with a plentiful supply of rhubarb and fresh vegetables from the prison garden. The bread produced in the institutional bakery still maintains its high standard of excellency. A welcome addition to the menu was the inclusion of the 2 oz. daily issue of butter and the additional milk ration to dietary scale, and these have been greatly appreciated by the inmates. A freezing-plant was installed during the year, and the storage of all perishable foodstuffs is now maintained under the most hygienic conditions. During the year the industries of the prison, together with other activities, have fully absorbed all available labour. The work of reroofing, painting, and renovating the buildings at the Borstal Institution at Point Halswell was completed. The maintenance of all motor-vehicles has been carried out, and a 500-gallon petrol-tank and pump have been installed. Lhe native plant nursery raised a considerable number of seedlings, and these were planted out for distribution, and later replanting and beautifying purposes. Several thousand plants were taken over by the Wellington Beautifying Society for distribution to the various schools, colleges, &c., and planted on Arbour Day. A start was made during the year to cull out some of the old and unprofitable cows from the dairy herd, and these are being replaced with younger stock from Wi Tako Prison. Every effort is being made to build up and increase the pig-breeding industry. During the year Berkshire pedigree boars were Bu ppti e( l to Invercargill, Paparua, Hautu, and Waikeria. A number of porkers were killed and sold to the local butchers.

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The output and quality of the floor-polish, and sandsoap industries have been well maintained. The printing and bookbinding shops have continued to furnish very satisfactory returns, and requisitions have been ably and expeditiously handled throughout the year. The cultural welfare of the prisoners has been well maintained throughout the year. Lectures and entertainments were frequently held, also evening radio programmes were provided regularly, incorporating any broadcasts of exceptional interest. The gift of several parcels of books from the Wellington Public Library provided a welcome addition to the institutional library. Concerts were given by the Wellington Justices' Association, the Presbyterian Social Guild, and the Salvation Army. Each of these organizations also provided Christmas cheer. Christmas contributions were also received from Mrs. Chatfield, J.P. ; W. P. Sommerville, Esq., J.P., and the Controller-General of Prisons. These were all greatly appreciated by the inmates, making a bright and cheerful break in the routine life of the prison. Throughout the year Church services are held regularly each week, and to the ministers of the Anglican, Presbyterian, other branches of the Protestant Churches, the Roman Catholic Clergy, the officers of the Salvation Army who have visited us from time to time we are deeply indebted. In conclusion, I am pleased to report that the conduct of the staff has been excellent and a high standard of discipline maintained throughout the year. The clerical work of the institution has been carried out efficiently by the office staff. Wi Tako Prison, Heretatjnga. (Superintendent, Mr. A. St. P. Jordan.) Due no doubt to improved economic conditions, the year under review has seen a further decline in the prison population, the daily average for the year being 40-5 inmates, as against 46-6 for the previous year. During the year 97 prisoners were received, whilst 102 were discharged under the following headings : 32 on expiration of sentence, 30 on special remission. 31 on recommendation of Prisons Board, and 9 transferred to other institutions. Two prisoners were admitted to hospital during the year, one a drug addict (Chinese) and the other an accident case, otherwise the health of the prisoners has been excellent, any minor ailments being attended to by the Medical Officer during his regular visits. The conduct and industry of the prisoners have been satisfactory. The Visiting Justices dealt with 5 cases of minor breaches of the regulations. Owing chiefly to improved prices for wool and produce there was an increase in revenue from the farming section, approximately £2,870 having been received from sales, whilst the institution has been self-supporting in regard to vegetables, potatoes, meat, milk, and firewood. The small muster makes it increasingly difficult to maintain the farm in good condition, but a flame-thrower has been of great service in checking gorse and second growth, especially on portion of the Defence leasehold, where stony conditions make other methods almost impracticable. No new development-work has been undertaken. Ministers and laymen of various denominations visited the prison regularly to attend to the spiritual welfare of the prisoners, and thanks are due to these gentlemen for the interest displayed. Concerts were provided by the Rev. Mr. Harding's party and the Salvation Army, and these, as usual, have been a welcome break in the routine. In addition, the inmates have the privilege of listening to the radio on two evenings per week, and also on Saturday afternoons and Sundays. During the year the prison was visited by the Chief Placement Officer, Wellington, who gave a talk on the scope and objects of the Placement Service with a view to assisting in the rehabilitation of prisoners after release. Donations of Christmas cheer from the Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul Society, Rev. Mr. Harding, and Mr. W. P. Sommerville were very acceptable, as was the special extra issue of tobacco provided by the Department. In conclusion, I would like to thank members of the stafl for their loyal co-operation. Addington Reformatory Prison (Women). (Superintendent, Miss M. Hewitt.) At the beginning of the year there were ] 1 females in custody, 27 were admitted during the year, and 26 were discharged, leaving 12 females in custody at the end of the year, the daily average for the year being 9-12. The health of the inmates has been good, the only cases of sickness being mild colds, and two cases of alcoholism. There were no admissions to the public hospital during the year. The conduct of the inmates throughout the year has been good, and all have worked well. The alterations and improvements to the laundry were completed last May. A new electric washing-machine and drying-room have been installed, enabling us, in spite of the small musters prevailing, to again undertake a considerable amount of laundering for various Government Departments. I am pleased to report that the institution library has been enlarged and improved, and our thanks are due to the many friends of the institution who have always so kindly kept us supplied with books and magazines. In this respect .1 should like to mention Mrs. Tomlinson, who was mtrumental in obtaining a grant of Lord Nuffield's money from the Mayor of Christchurch with which to purchase

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new books. The new library has been filled with additional shelves and now presents a neat and cheerful appearance. The library was formally opened by the Mayoress of Christchurch in August last, and this was made the occasion of a pleasant little function, which was very much enjoyed by the inmates. The spiritual and social welfare of the inmates has been well looked after by the chaplains (the Rev. P. Revell and the Rev. Father Donavan), the Salvation Army, the Sisters of the Missions from the Addington Convent, and the Ladies of Charity. Concert parties organized by Miss Nicholls and the Women's Christian Temperance Union have taken place regularly throughout the year, and we have also had several travel talks by friends who have been visiting other countries. All this has been very much appreciated by the inmates. The Salvation Army and the Women's Christian Temperance Union provided tea parties on Coronation Day and Christmas Day respectively, while numerous other friends have contributed to our fund to provide Christmas cheer and recreation on other holidays as they came along throughout the year. In conclusion, I desire to state that at all times the staff have carried out their duties in a loyal and tactful manner. Invercargill Borstal Institution. (Superintendent, Mr. R. W. Arnold.) At the beginning of the year there were 96 Borstal inmates in custody. During the year 71 were received into the institution and 74 were discharged or otherwise disposed of, leaving thus 93 in custody on 31st December, 1937. Of the 74 discharged, 68 were released on the recommendation of the Parole Board, 2 were discharged on the expiration of the term of detention, and 4 were transferred. The greatest number in custody at one time was 98, and the least number 85. The daily average during the year was 93. In the Reformatory Section there were 12 inmates (males) in custody at the beginning of the year. During the year 64 males and 1 female were received, while 62 males and 1 female were discharged, leaving thus 14 males in custody on 31st December, 1937. The greatest number in custody at one time was 19, and the least number 6. The daily average during the year was 13-5. There were 14 admissions to the Southland Public Hospital this year (12 from the Borstal Section and 2 from the Prison Section), as compared with a total of 21 for the year 1936. The general health of the inmates was otherwise good. There were, of course, many cases treated in the institution hospital, but the outdoor life, games, and physical exercises tend to keep the health at a fair standard. Examinations are regularly made by the staff Medical Officer, while dental treatment is given by a local practising dentist. During the year there were twelve escapes, of which three were by the same inmate. There were three occasions when two inmates went together. Under Borstal conditions it is, of course, not difficult for a boy, especially on the farm, to make off if he feels so inclined. All were apprehended after varying periods of freedom. As an aid to good behaviour a House Competition is conducted throughout the year, the four houses being Wakatipu, Te Anau, Manapouri, and Monowai. Marks are awarded at intervals for best-kept cubicles, general orderliness, &c. It is part of the Borstal system to give inmates an opportunity to learn the groundwork at least of a trade or other useful occupation, and also to develop their general education. This is not altogether an easy matter, as the boys have had varying degrees of schooling. For instance, of the inmates at the end of the year, about 15 per cent, have had some high school training, 27 per cent, passed Sixth Standard, 20 per cent. Fifth, 9 per cent. Fourth, 12 per cent. Third, 10 per cent. Second, and 7 per cent, reached only the First Standard. The number of Maoris, totalling between 20 per cent, and 30 per cent, of the whole, is also a matter requiring consideration as regards planning an education scheme. As far as possible inmates are permitted to follow the lines of employment which they may think they will take up after release. The farm, of course, offers a wide field in the various operations— dairying, shearing, harvesting, ploughing, &c. In the carrying-on and maintenance of the institution there are various sections to which inmates are drafted where they can acquire useful knowledge— carpentering, painting, blacksmithing, butchering, breadbaking, boot-repairing, gardening, &c. In the carpenter's shop there is a new Universal wood-working machine, and in the blacksmithy a new lathe, drilling-machine, grinders, &c. All bread for institution requirements is baked on the premises. To supplement the practical work, evening classes are conducted for those wishing to gain further knowledge of the trades they are engaged in. Singing, music, and art classes are also conducted for boys with talent in that direction. To assist inmates to improve their standard of education and to give those who are capable of assimilating it a general knowledge, classes are conducted in the evenings by tutors engaged outside the institution. These courses cover the following : (1) General school course, arranged by Mr. L. J. Clapp, Headmaster of the Edendale School, assisted by Mr. T. A. D. McFarlane, First Assistant of the St. George School, Invercargill ; (2) a class under the auspices of the Invercargill Branch of the League of Nations Union, conducted by Mr. A. J. Deaker, M.A., of the Southland Boys' High School ; (3) a class under the Workers' Educational Association, conducted by Mr. Jas. Stobo, M.A., of the Southland Technical College ; (4) a class in agricultural science and wool-classing practice, the instructor being Mr. Thos. Mathews, of the Southland Education Board. Each of the above-mentioned instructors has been engaged at the instruction for a number of years now. It will therefore be appreciated that, by reason of the experience gained and the calibre

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of the instructors, the pupils have every opportunity to promote self-improvement, and success rests with themselves. The teachers' reports for the year for the above courses are given hereunder : — (1) General. —" The classification was kept to Junior, Intermediate, and Senior Divisions, and the work graded to suit the mental capacity of the boys concerned. The course of instruction in English was planned to develop the power of accurate expression, both oral and written. Letterwriting again occupied a prominent place in all divisions of the school. " In the Senior Section a feature of the study was some of the English prose writers and their works. Poetry, spelling, and vocabulary were systematically treated. "In the lower school the work was more elementary than usual. Individual work among the illiterates has in some cases given these pupils new interests, but much yet remains to be done with those whose elementary education has been somewhat neglected. " The monthly paper, The Students Digest, has afforded the boys an intelligent interest in current topics. This phase of study was augmented by summarizing of economic, geographical, and historical changes in world affairs. " Provision was made for the different abilities found within the classes. Easy-graded exercises, helpful to all, with harder examples for the more independent, were arranged. A knowledge of the tables and processes used in daily transactions has been a feature of the course. "An endeavour was made to make New Zealand history and civics a ' live ' subject. Incidents and developments were made more easily understood through a biographical approach. The causes and the effects of historical events proved an interesting basis of study. " The geography course involved a definite world study, especially of countries with which New Zealand trades and of those countries associated with current events in the newspapers." (2) League of Nations Union Class.—" This branch was again glad of the privilege of conducting a class in the institution during 1937. The class met in the winter months, and was attended by an average of about 27 boys. Instruction was given about the League, but the discussions covered a wide range of present-day problems. My executive again presented books to the six pupils scoring highest marks. As examiner, I am able to say that the standard of work was the highest for some years." (3) W.E.A. Class.—" The 1937 session of the economics class consisted of lectures based on an introductory explanation of world affairs. Members of the class took part in the discussions, which took the form of lecturettes or formal debates. " Two evenings were devoted to readings of one-act plays—one to a debate with the Invercargill W.E.A. Literature Class, and one to a concert. The interest of the class was well maintained, and many members showed considerable talent. The assistance of those members of the staff associated with the class is appreciated for providing facilities for and assisting with the study and preparation of the members of the class between lectures." (4) Agriculture and Wool-classing.—" Classes in both these subjects were carried on throughout the year, and, considering the limited time devoted to instruction, satisfactory progress has been made. " This was particularly noticeable in the practical side of the course of instruction in woolclassing. As the students gained experience and confidence, they gradually moved forward to more advanced work, several of the older lads carrying out the skirting, rolling, and classing of the fleece wool on similar lines to those obtaining in the ordinary wool-shed. With further experience under normal shed conditions they should make quite satisfactory wool-classers. " Once again we have to thank the trustees of the Reginald MacKinnon Trust for their substantial grant towards the purchase of prize books for both classes." From the above it will be noted that there is plenty of opportunity afforded to boys to help themselves, and there is no doubt that a proportion of the seed falls on good ground and brings forth good fruit. During the year some 126 volumes were donated to the institution by several persons interested, and also a number of magazines, &c. The library is fairly well stocked, but new books are always welcome to replace books withdrawn owing to wear-and-tear. One or two inmates are generally kept going repairing damage to the volumes, which is only to be expected in the circumstances. The boys do not, of course, depend entirely upon the library for their reading-matter, as their relatives and friends are liberal in this respect. Various periodicals are supplied by the institution, some from overseas and others from New Zealand sources. The range is reasonably wide so that a boy has the opportunity of suiting his individual taste. There is no doubt that good reading wherewith to fill in leisure hours is as useful in mental reconstruction as sport and recreation is in physical upbuilding. Particular care is taken to ensure that religious instruction is given to inmates. The opportunity to raise the spiritual standard is provided, but here again, as in outside fields, the results achieved must depend largely upon the individuals sought to be benefited. We are indebted to the Ministers' Association for the conduct of Divine services. On Anzac Day, Good Friday, Christmas Day, King's Birthday, and in 1937 Coronation Day, special services were arranged. Ministers of the several denominations and an officer from the Salvation Army make arrangements for holding Bible Classes, and this works satisfactorily. The amount of time willingly devoted by the public towards the entertainment and social uplift of the inmates is really remarkable. Year after year the interest does not wane or the quality of the contribution diminish. There have been numerous concerts by visiting parties, the Male Voice Choir, Church choirs, radio programmes, band entertainments, moving-pictures, &c. Many lectures and addresses of an instructive as well as interesting nature have been given, as the following will show : " Legends of the South Seas " ; " Wreck of the Titanic " ; " Mongolia " ;

3—H. 20.

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" The 1936 Olympiad " ; " Java and Singapore " ; " The Great War " ; " Outline of Music " ; " The English Sergeant-Major " ; " Rain and Rivers " ; " Refrigeration " ; " Means of Communication " ; " Music illustrated by gramaphone records ; " Printing and Process Blocks " ; " The Gallipoli Campaign " ; " Ancient and Modern Buildings " ; " Modern Machinery " ; " The Springboks " ; " Self-control " ; " The Castle of Colchester " ; " Heroes of the Maori Wars " ; " Modern Factory " ; " Steel and Concrete Construction " ; " Voice-production " ; " A Trip to the Coronation"; "Sport"; " Sino- Japanese War"; "Famous Athletes"; "Experiences as an Entertainer with the Diggers during the Great War " ; " Egypt " ; " The Eastern Situation " ; " Lost Horizon " ; " Anzac " ; " Fruit-growing in South Australia " ; " Christmas Lore and Ritual " ; " Christmas Carols." We are indebted to Toe H for many of the addresses itemized above. The branch visit the institution regularly. Talks on trips abroad are given by actual travellers, and so are usually made more realistic. The Invercargill Rotary Club sends members along once weekly to visit the association class, which for the time being is the Kiwi Club. Impromptu discussions are often held. One evening moving-pictures of mountain-climbing at Queenstown were shown. During the year addresses on the following subjects were given : " Count von Luckner " ; " Cheese-manufacturing in New Zealand " ; " The History of Recreation " ; " Description of the Coronation Ceremony " ; " Fishing by Zane Grey in New Zealand," and moving-pictures ; " A Trip on the Amazon River " ; "A Trip to England and America " ; " Aeroplane Accidents and Flying Blind " ; " Timber and its Products " ; " Deep Sea Monsters and Diving for Turtles " ; " The Italian Road Race" ; " Trip to Australia " ; " Football and Experiences as a Referee " ; " Nansen, the Artie Explorer " ; " Spies during the Great War " ; " Trip to the Southern Lakes and Mountains " ; " Diesel Engines " ; " Five Years in India " ; " Moving-pictures of Native Life at Rotorua, the Southern Lakes, and Oreti Beach, Southland " ; " Pigs, Pork, and Bacon " ; " Aeroplanes and Flying Methods " ; " Trip to Europe and South Africa " ; " The ' Queen Mary '" ; " Experiences in the Great War " ; " Malay " ; "The Salvaging of Ships " ; " Artillery and Methods used in the War " ; and " Parachute Jumping." On one occasion a one-act play called " Larry O'More " was presented by a party from St. Mary's Basilica. This was well received. An interesting diversion was a debate between members of the Marist Old Boys' Debating Club and a team from the institution. The subject chosen was one to which prominence is being given at the present time—namely, " That Physical Culture should be made compulsory to the Youth of New Zealand." The Borstal side took the affirmative. A member of the Invercargill Borstal Society acted as chairman and time-keeper and a City Councillor as judge. It was a spirited debate on both sides, but the verdict went to the Marist team, which had 110 doubt an educational advantage. At the conclusion some helpful criticism was given by the judge, and entertaining sketches by others. It can be claimed that this department can be a very practical means for bringing about reformation. With this object in view, much attention is given to promoting bodily health conjoined with a sane mental outlook. Tennis has gone ahead by leaps and bounds, but there is only one court available. Some of the boys are quite adept at this game. Various matches are played with visiting teams. A member of a local sports depot has been of great help in giving instruction in the art of restringing racquets. The fives court is used by those boys not interested in or able to participate in other games. It seems that Rugby takes pride of place as being the most popular game at the institution. . During the season two teams took part in the competition under the union, but, contrary to expectations, did not arrive at the top. As we have a floating population it will be appreciated that it is difficult to keep up to a certain standard. The weather interfered on occasion, but, all things considered, it was a good season ; and if something was done to achieve the object mentioned above it will be granted that that is more to be desired than winning competitions. House matches always sustain the interest —they are usually played on Saturdays as curtain-raisers to the competition matches. Cricket is, of course very popular. The Institution still holds from last season the Times Cup for Junior B Grade. It has been retained for three years now. A good effort is being put up to keep it this season as well. The 1937-38 cricket season was opened with the fixture Staff v. Boys. This function has developed into a social affair. His Worship the Mayor attended and bowled the first, ball. Members of the Southland Cricket Association were also present, while music was supplied by the Highland Pipe Band. Afternoon tea was served in a marquee to the visitors. The boys won the game. If social contact is helpful, then this type of function should assist in that direction. Swimming and life-saving was under the direction of the Oreti Surf Life-saving Club, members of which have for several years past freely given their time and ability towards instructing the inmates. Many of the boys showed remarkable improvement. In April of 1937 the class of 18 was taken to the town tepid baths for final examination. These results were : bronze medallion, 2 ; intermediate certificates, 4 ; proficiency certificates, 2 : resuscitation passes, 6 ; and second-class instructional, 1. A first-aid class under the instruction of the St. John's Ambulance Brigade was commenced early in April, and carried on for a term. No examination was held, but it is understood that satisfactory progress was made by those who attended the class. Physical drill is part of the routine of the institution. Most of the lads are required to take part. The instructor is from the Southland Boy's High School. Before closing this section it is necessary to record thanks for assistance given by way of cash donations, sports material, personal instruction, &c., by the following : Southland Rugby Union,

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football jerseys, sox, &c. ; Invercargill Cricket Club, cricket-net; Mr. Gimblett, of the Invercargill Sports Depot, for tuition in restringing tennis-racquets and gifts of racquets ; Mr. C. Diack, football coach ; Mr. Ellis Kelly, cricket umpire. Southland Amateur Sports Trust, £10. Combined Sports meetings are usually held on New Year's Day, King's Birthday, Labour Day, and Boxing Day. On these occasions practically every boy takes part, prizes are awarded for various events, and refreshments are served. The twelfth Annual Summer Camp was held at Otatara from 24th December, 1937, to 3rd January, 1938. The weather was excellent most of the time, and the twenty boys drawn from the association class had a thoroughly good time—fishing, boating, rabbiting, swimming, rambling, &c., with moving-pictures in the evenings. Sports Day was on Ist January. There were numerous visitors. Mr. W. M. C. Denham, M.P., distributed the prizes. At this camp there were no breaches of discipline, and if this is a criterion of success, the gathering was one of the most successful held. As usual, public support in the way of donations of food stuffs, prizes, &c., was not lacking. Contributions in cash totalled over £10 for the camp and Christmas Cheer Fund, while business firms were generous in various ways. During the year, effect was given by Head Office to the idea that a " House Mother " would prove a valuable addition to the staff, this experiment having been tried in England with apparent success. It is probably a true saying that improvement must move from within the individual, but before anything can be done the desire to be better must be created and fostered. The refining effect of the presence of a good woman to whom the boys could refer to as a mother would at least prepare the soil for that improvement aimed at by Borstal. There is also the consideration that a lad will be less diffident about approaching a matron with his personal troubles than he would an officer. So gradually may they rise " from their dead selves to higher things." For welfare service in other directions there are the Invercargill Borstal Society, the Invercargill Borstal Visiting Committee, the Invercargill Honorary Ladies' Borstal Committee, and the Invercargill Voluntary Probation Committee. In continuation of the question of the welfare of the inmates generally, consideration was given by Head Office during the year to an improvement in the wearing apparel. It will be conceded that the right kind of clothing has an important psychological effect upon the wearer. " Good clothes beget good manners," while the reverse is the case with clothing towards which the wearer is not happily disposed. One realizes the feeling of uneasiness, tantamount to inferiority, engendered by dirty boots, for example (" shoe shame "), or an unshaven chin. The aim of Borstal being to raise the mental, moral, and physical standard of inmates, ways and means which might be likely to achieve, or even partially achieve, this end would apparently be justified. The days of the Broad Arrow are long since past, and a great advance has been made on that standard. But the aim now is to supply an outfit with a touch of individuality, especially for leisure time. In certain classes of outdoor work any clothing will soon show the effects of wear-and-tear and become dirty and untidy. A great improvement has been made already in the clothing to be used for " best," and one can but hope that the experiment will be productive of good. During the year a daily issue of butter was added to the already well-varied menu. Green vegetables from the farm garden are supplied all the year round. Cakes, fruit, &c., are permitted from relations, friends, and others for special occasions. The proper washing of clothing, bedding, &c., at an institution such as this is a matter of no little importance. The proper drying is indeed of more importance. In the summer .months the work presents less difficulty than* it does during the winter, when there is trouble getting things dried. The lack of facilities here made it imperative to improve the position, and this has been done by the installation of a Manlove-Alliott New Model Super Multijet washing-machine, with a 21 in. diameter electric driven hydro-extractor, and the necessary steam-boiler, motors, air-heating unit, &c. Plans to make the present swimming-bath tepid are in course of being carried out. Excavation work has been done and the site plastered for the accommodation of the boiler. When the whole job is finished greater use will be made of the bath, and an objective aimed at will be the teaching of every boy to swim. Further, the work of the instructors from the Oreti Surf Life-saving Club, who give their services voluntary, will be made easier. In view of the large number of deaths by drowning in New Zealand annually, the teaching of swimming and life-saving is of great national importance. The institutional hospital is being brought up to date, to make conditions as ameliorative as possible for inmates when sick. New equipment is being put in and other inprovements made. All the bread required for institutional purposes is baked on the premises. Here a dual purpose is served, as in other industries, where a boy can obtain a working knowledge of a trade, which can be turned to advantage in the future. The institution was honoured during the year by a visit from " La Marechale," the title by which is known the elder daughter of the late William Booth, founder of the Salvation Army, now head of the Army herself. This lady, vigorous despite her years, conducted a very fine meeting of an evangelistic nature. Mrs. M. Michael, of Swansea, Wales, was with us for a few days, and impressed all with her earnestness of purpose and great understanding, arising out of some fourteen years of association with English prisons. She also addressed the boys. In September, during the tour of the South African Rugby Football Team to New Zealand, Mr. R. 0. Nel, a Member of Parliament for Newcastle, South Africa, and uncle of the captain of the Springboks, gave a talk to the boys on " Big Game Hunting, and Mining " in his country. The freehold portion of the reclamation area comprising approximately a square mile —650 acres is the main Borstal. There is also a block of 91 acres freehold, in light bush, at Otatara. The city leasehold area now includes Lot IV, 123 acres, Lot V, 200 acres, Lot VI, 200 acres, and No. 2 dairy,

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6 acres. As from Ist April, 1937, Lot 111, of 70 acres city leasehold, was not renewed. The " River Farm " (Rhodes' Lease) contains 417 acres in crops, grass, and bush. The rifle-range, held on special terms requiring maintenance of drains, butts, mounds, &c., contained about 100 acres of land suitable for grazing. At both the winter and the summer shows conducted by the Southland Agricultural and Pastoral Association the institution entered exhibits, gaining several firsts and numerous seconds. Mr. P. McMillan, of the Wallaceville Experimental Farm, was appointed Manager and took up his duties in November, 1937. The co-ordination of farm activities and planned management will be all to the good. I wish to record my appreciation of the assistance rendered by all members of the stafE throughout the year. Waikeria. Borstal Institution (Te Awamutu). (Superintendent, Mr. D. Dunlop.) On 31st January, 1937, there were in custody 25 Borstal inmates, and 38 were received during the year ; the discharges were 26 on probationary licenses, while ] was transferred to another institution, thus leaving 36 in custody on the 31st December, 1937. The greatest number of Borstal inmates in custody at any one time during the year was 35, the least number 12, and the daily average was 2443. In the Reformatory Section there were in custody at the beginning of the year 97 inmates, and 103 were received during the year ;of these, 4 were discharged on expiration of sentences, 17 by special remissions of sentences, 81 on probationary licenses, and 22 were transferred to other institutions, leaving 76 inmates in the reformatory at the end of the year. There were no deaths during the year. The greatest number of reformatory inmates in custody at any one time was 97, the least number 69, the daily average being 75-22 inmates. There were no escapes during the year, but one inmate made an attempt to escape. This attempt was made on impulse, and the inmate was suitably dealt with. On the whole, the conduct and industry of the inmates has been quite satisfactory, having regard to the number who are not subjected to constant supervision and the extensive liberties allowed. It is pleasing to report, also, that the health of the inmates has been very good during the year. Nine inmates were transferred to the Waikato Public Hospital for minor complaints requiring treatment that could not be provided at the institution. The institution is visited regularly by the Medical Officer, Dr. J. B. W. Roberton, who attends to all cases brought before him in a thorough and sympathetic manner. During the year only one inmate required treatment for venereal disease. Dental treatment is given by the visiting dentist, Mr. W. Mackenzie. Major cases are dealt with at his surgery. The food supplied has been of excellent quality, with a plentiful supply of vegetables from the institution garden. The bread produced in the institution bakery has also been of excellent quality and most favourably commented on by visitors. For some years difficulty has been experienced in finding suitable employment for the young men discharged from the institution, but with the better times experienced during the past year this difficulty has not been so apparent. There has been a keen demand for tradesmen, and inmates who are tradesmen have been readily placed. There has also been a keen demand for farm labourers, and it is pleasing to note that farmers in the surrounding districts are always willing to give the inmates a trial. During the year there has been ample work of a useful and productive nature available to keep all inmates fully employed on the farm property. Inmates who are artisans are also employed as far as possible at their respective trades. As a means of reformation the value of healthy out-door work cannot be too highly stressed. No serious oSences occurred during the year, and discipline was maintained at a high standard. The majority of offences were minor breaches of the regulations and concerned damage to clothing and equipment resulting from carelessness. The Department is indebted to the Visiting Justices, Messrs. W. Jeffrey and S. Clark, and to the members of the Visiting Committee, Messrs. F. Quin, F. W. Bevin, G. A. Empson, and F. Gilbert. Religious services were again provided during the year by visiting chaplains from Kihikihi and Te Awamutu. The usual facilities were again provided for recreation, and cricket, football, and tennis were played in season. Thanks are again due to Mr. F. Findlay, of Hamilton, who in conjunction with other social workers maintain a sympathetic interest in the welfare of the inmates by organizing concert parties and lectures, which are greatly appreciated. Wireless programmes were also provided during the year, the programmes being extended where necessary to incorporate any broadcasts of exceptional interest. During the season one team was entered in the local Rugby competitions, and thirty-seven inmates participated in the various matches. The team was successful in winning the Junior Championship and the Doyle Knockout Cup. Six inmates were selected to represent Waipa in representative games, and played matches at Cambridge, Ngaruawahia, Hamilton, Otorohanga, and Morrinsville. One of the representative games was played as a curtain-raiser to the Springbok versus Waikato match held at Hamilton. Cricket was also indulged in during the summer season, and the Waikeria team played matches each Saturday in the local competitions. A total of twenty-eight inmates in all participated in the cricket matches during the season. The institution team won the championship in the Southern Zone, but was defeated in the final against the winners of the Northern Zone by 16 runs. The season was very successful and enjoyable, and the competitive games were appreciated by the inmates participating and also the opposing teams. . Night-school classes were conducted at the institution on eighty-seven evenings, the average attendance being 13-7. The number of evenings is less than that of previous years, due to the day school being closed on account of the infantile-paralysis epidemic. As mentioned in my previous

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report, owing to the smaller numbers attending the classes an endeavour has been made to encourage interest by making the work covered more of a cultural than of an academic nature. A Raratongan and several Maori inmates whose educational standard was low have received all possible assistance. Several inmates have been taking special courses suited to their mentality or particular bent, and to these have been given as much individual assistance as possible. Weekly lectures on local, national, or international events, followed by free discussion, have been given, while Mr. Bryce, of Hamilton, gave an extremely interesting lecture illustrated by lantern slides. Films lent by the Canadian Trade Commissioner, Kodak Ltd., Auckland, the Government Tourist Department, and Mr. Broadfoot, M.P., were shown at different periods of the year. Messrs. Kodak Ltd., Auckland, also lent one of their latest 16 mm. machines to show the films lent by Mr. Broadfoot, which included one in natural colour photography of the trooping of the colours. The year under review lias been noted for considerable activity in the building trade, and besides general maintenance work on the institution and farm buildings being attended to, three new cottages for the accommodation of staff officers were completed. The work of the Orchard Instructor has been rather restricted in the past owing to inadequate accommodation and equipment, and to overcome this difficulty a new packing and grading shed was erected. A mechanical spraying outfit was also installed to enable the spraying of the trees to be undertaken with a minimum of labour and in as short a time as possible. The new laundry and chilling plants which were commenced the previous year were also completed, and both plants have proved a boon to the institution. Some improvements have also been carried out at the slaughterhouse to bring the equipment more up to date. The water-supply to the institution, staff cottages, and the farm, has in the past not been all it could be desired, and from a fire-prevention point of view , most inadequate. To remedy this defect a new system is being installed, and all mains are being replaced by new and larger pipes with ample provision for fire-fighting appliances. Good progress was made on this work during the year, and a chlorinatingplant was connected to the system. The farming section has progressed satisfactorily, and there has been an excellent spring growth with prospects for good hay and cereal crops, and all root crops are very promising. The revenue from the farm for the year amounted to £19,029, exclusive of the value of a large quantity of produce consumed at the institution for ration purposes and on the farm itself. Practically all branches of farming are carried, out, including cattle-raising and dairying, sheep, horse, and pig raising ; vegetables, fruit, honey, and ordinary crop production. Top-dressing on the usual maintenance basis was carried out, and an area of 132 acres was sown down in permanent pasture. Dairying is the main farm activity, and during the season 1936-37 an average of 524 cows were milked, with an average butterfat-production per cow of 292 lb. The total milk-yield was 3,609,272 lb. ; cream-yield, 330,145 lb. ; and butterfat produced 139,813 lb. The average cream and milk tests were 39-85 per cent, and 4-1.7 per cent, respectively. Of the total cream supplied to the factory 92-91 per cent, was graded first quality. Herd-testing, carried out by inmates, was continued during the year, and by the use of breeding data and testing records, coupled with systematic culling of low producers, the Shorthorn and Jersey herds have been maintained at the high standards recorded in the past. During the year the whole of the dairy herds and heifers were subjected to the tuberculin test by a veterinarian from, the Department of Agriculture. The supply of beef and mutton for the ration requirements of the Auckland Prison was continued during the year with satisfactory results. Good prices were obtained for all hides, skins, and tallow disposed through the auction rooms. Good progress was made with the pig industry, and 780 pigs were sold during the year, the majority through the New Zealand Pig Marketing Association, Ltd. In the sheep section a total of 79 bales of wool were produced during the season, realizing an average of £13 17s. Bd. per bale. The lambing percentage was slightly over 103 per cent., and 2,255 fat lambs were sold for export. Owing to the lack of labour, activities in the garden have been modified for the season. The majority of the inmates engaged in this work are fit for light labour only, and this occupation provides them with a useful and healthy avenue of employment. The garden supplies the institution with all of its vegetable requirements, and any surplus is disposed of either locally or through the auction rooms. In the nursery section young trees are raised from seed for eventual planting out as shelterbelts on the farm. The orchard showed good results for the season, and a total of 4,003 cases of apples were produced, giving a revenue of £528 7s. 9d. Apart from the apples supplied to the institution to supplement the inmates' rations, the whole of the apple crop was disposed of locally or through the auction-rooms. A further area of land was cleared during the year with the intention of planting a further 500 young trees during the coming season. The output of honey for the year amounted to 1,435 lb., which is much lower than previous years. A low output of honey for this particular season has been general throughout the district, but a bumper harvest is anticipated for the coming year, as weather conditions have been much more favourable. The following crops were harvested during the year : Ensilage, 856 tons ; hay, 30 tons ; oaten sheaves (for chaff), 68 tons ; maize (for green feed), 180 tons ; swede turnips, 1,800 tons ; potatoes, 88 tons ; and horse carrots, 30 tons. The majority of the crops are raised for the requirements of the institution and stock, but potatoes are disposed of to all prisons in the North Island. The usual display of live-stock and produce at the Te Awamutu Agricultural and Pastoral Association's annual show was not made last season owing to the show being abandoned due to the infantile-paralysis epidemic. I am pleased to report that- the conduct of the staff has been excellent, and a high standard of discipline has been maintained throughout the year, and in consequence the various industrial activities have been carried out smoothly and economically.

21

H—2o.

Point Halswell Borstal Institution. (Superintendent, Miss A. E. Sewell.) On the Ist January, 1937, there were 22 girls in the Borstal Institution ; 14 girls were admitted during the year and 21 discharged, leaving 15 in the institution at the end of the year. Of these, 21 girls were discharged, 10 were released on probationary license, 3 were released under section 16 of the Act, 4 transferred to the care of the Mental Hospitals Department, and 4 transferred to other women's institutions. In the Reformatory Section 8 inmates were in custody at the beginning of the year, 32 were admitted during the year, and 35 discharged, leaving 5 in the institution at the 31st December. The health of the inmates generally has been good. Five girls were admitted to the public hospital during the year, for an appendicitis operation, 1 for mental observation, and 3 for surgical treatment for venereal disease. One girl was.an inmate of the Salvation Army Maternity Home, her child being committed to the care of the Child Welfare Department. In addition, 14 Borstal inmates and 1 Reformatory inmate attended the outpatients' department for clinical treatment three times weekly. Many of the girls are in a poor state of health when received here, and it is invariably noticeable how beneficially the regular hours and simple but adequate dietary react on their general physique. Regular medical and dental attention is available for every inmate, as also the services of a psychiatrist from the Mental Hospitals Department when his advice would be of help to the girl. The conduct and industry of the girls have been most creditable. The organization of the institution ensures that a thorough domestic training is given each one, this including such activities as cooking, cleaning, gardening, jam-making, sewing, mending, and handwork. Also a modern laundry with electrical equipment gives others a skilled trade they can follow on release, if they so desire. It is our aim to equip every girl to be able to hold interesting and lucrative employment instead of being fitted only for unskilled, uninteresting mechanical labour, as is the case in the majority of instances on admittal. When interest and pride in their work is aroused one finds personal initiative developing, and the girls are encouraged to take an intelligent interest in what they are doing. The laundry, for example, copes with all N.Z.B. washing from Wellington centre, as well as for Government Departments, &c., and after allowing for all expenses, supervision, and depreciation last year showed a credit working balance of £206 3s. lOd. During the year the institution has been renovated throughout, and this, with gifts of pictures and new furnishings, has greatly improved the appearance of the institution. The girls' uniforms have also been made more attractive. The installation of a new six-valve wireless set, with loudspeakers in each house, has been appreciated, and the girls listened to the Coronation service, the King's speech, &c., as well as the regular daily programmes. Daily school study and drill have been maintained throughout the year, good progress being reported for the most part. Recreational activities include tennis, swimming, basketball, and table tennis. For seven months of the year swimming parties have regularly visited Shelly Bay, and practically every girl has learnt to sw r im. During the year three tennis matches and five basketball matches were played against visiting teams, the fellowship with the other players (Training College and Bible-c.lass girls) being appreciated. A new venture was the taking of the Fergusson House (senior) girls to a Youth Rally held in the Wellington Town Hall to hear Dr. T. Z. Koo, a notable Christian speaker from China. The girls enjoyed this lecture very much, and their conduct and reliability were extremely good. Concerts and lectures are welcomed as a break in the week's routine. These have included parties given by Mrs. Sprott and the members of the Mothers' Union ; by Mrs. Glover and officers of the Salvation Army ; by the J.P. Association to mark the occasion of the King's Coronation ; by members of the Bible-class Unions ; regular first-aid lectures have been most profitable, led by Mrs. Gaby ; two moving-picture shows were very popular ; and twenty-one other various entertainments were given by other groups. To all these people we are most deeply indebted. To acknowledge this in some small measure at the end of the year the girls themselves gave a concert, entertaining their many friends, the performance being of a high standard. The Maori items and dramatic work were specially good. Christmas festivities were made more attractive by the thoughtful gifts of interested friends. To the Borstal Association, Mrs. Dallard, W. P. Sommerville, Esq., and other friends we express thanks for their generous remembering of the girls at this season. Special features were a carol service on Christmas morning, and a much-appreciated walk over the hills to the Massey Memorial in the evening was enjoyed by the girls ; again in this latter case their response to being trusted " out of bounds " was noteworthy. The after-care of the girls leaving on probationary license is most sympathetically and capably carried out by the members of the Women's Borstal Association, who not only visit the institution regularly, thus getting to know the girls personally before they leave, but also enabling each girl to face life again with a complete outfit. They follow the subsequent careers of the girls with great interest. Our most sincere thanks are due to them. Regular Church services are conducted each week, and we express our indebtedness to the various ministers, Salvation Army officers, Father Uhlenberg, and the Seatoun Convent Sisters, who carry out this work. The Visiting Committee under the chairmanship of Mr. G. C. Edwards, J.P., while fortunately having no disciplinary cases to deal with, have most thoughtfully advised and helped each girl both on her entry to and leaving the institution. That this work, with the general training the girls receive, is bearing fruit in more purposeful lives is evidenced by the splendid way most of the girls rehabilitate themselves as useful members of society. I desire to record also the fine spirit of unselfish co-operation which every member of the staff has shown in her work during the year.

22

H.—2o,

Table A. Table showing Particulars, for each Prison, of Prisoners at Beginning and End of Year, and received and discharged during Year 1937.

23

I Ei -a rt s 1? C3 fl e§*© ft 9 . = s a S £ I a s a £ I § a ? - ! • ( ~ — - c r3 2 5 50 w . _: J3 j» A s 0 T3 ! /*J 'Sc c5 +| "g S "ft Is - (S "§ (D 3 5 n ~a £0 o ? — 8 0 r° S £23 >. <s S ; mES o .5 jg £ § -g. °5 3 S b 5 »£• I Iml 8 S S§ «g* .& S gB § a a aft go « 'I "S s S£ w s-S. s SH-g a 3 S « g S 11 S " 5 « s -| I O « s 2 ;sS £ £ I C gs 3 % S ■* PH -| ft § PL, bo ! ] (a) In prison at beginning of year :— Undergoing — m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. Simple imprisonment, hard labour — Under three months .. .. .. , . .. 1 26 1 9 9 . . .. 1 .. 2 2 .. 24 7 1 .. .. 79 4 83 Three months and under one year .. . . . 3 40 1 2 .. 3 4 . . 1 . . 21 . .. 2 ... . 6 . . 9 5 .. 1 . . 23 . . 14 . . 10 2 .... 139 8 147 One year and upwards * .. .. .. .. 3 57 2 19 .. 6 1 .. 28 .. 36 13 .. 43 31 .. 5 .. 33 .. 15 287 5 292 Detention as habitual criminals . , .. 54 .. 2 5 7 1 3 . . 3 75 .. 75 Reformative detention .. .. .. .. .. 3 11 3 9 .. 3 13 .. 21 .. .. 2 .. .. 7 . 44 16 .. 4 .. 24 .. J.4 166 8 174 Detention in Borstal institution . . .. 96 22 25 1 122 22 144 Total criminals in prison .. .. . . 10 188 7 32 .. 12 .. 96 .. 14 .. 47 . 94 .. . . 5 . . 22 27 .. 98 .. 25 .. 52 .. 15 . . 108 . . 43 . . 17 3 .. .. 868 47 915 For trial or on remand .. . . .. .. .. 1 20 1 1 | 1 .. ... 3 8 5 42 5 47 Total in prison for criminal offences .. ..11 208 8 32 .. 12 .. 96 .. 15 .. 48 ..101 .. .. 8 .. 22 27 .. 98 .. 25 .. 52 .. 15 .. 116 .. 43 .. 22 3 .. .. 910 52 962 Debtors .. .. . .. .. Total persons in prison .. .. .. .. 11 208 8 32 .. 12 .. 96 . . 15 .. 48 .. 101 . . .. 8 .. 22 27 . . 98 .. 25 .. 52 .. 15 .. 116 . . 43 .. 22 3 .... 910 52 962 (b) Received during the year :— Sentenced to— Simple imprisonment, hard labour — Under three months .. .. .. .. .. 3 681 23 .... 19 44 1 22 .. 235 .... 14 2 .. I 24 .. 329 . . 10 .. 226 2 64 ..1 ; 657 43 1,700 Three months and under one year .. .. ..10 97 9 5 .. 11 26 .. 7 .. 92 .. .. 2 .. .. 2 .. 24 4 .. 7 .. 69 .. 54 .. 12 410 21 431 One year and upwards .. .. 17 .. 16 .. 5 18 .. 24 .. .. 4 .. 27 .. 2 .. 23 .. 4 .. 17 .. 16 .. 1 174 .. 174 Hard labour, reformative detention, and declared habitual criminal Hard labour and reformative detention .. 4 1 1 J 1 2 10 .. 10 Hard labour and flogging .. .. Reformative detention only .. .. .. .. 2 9 2 7.. 4.. 1.. 1.. 5.. 8.... 6.... 2..25.. 5.. 9.. 3.. 12.. 6.. 1 98 10 108 Reformative detention and declared habitual criminal Hard labour and detention in Borstal institution I Detention in Borstal institution .. .. . . . . 2 68 9 22 1 1 92 11 103 Hard labour and declared habitual criminal 7 1 8.. 8 Declared habitual criminal . . .. Death . . .. .. .. - Detained until the pleasure of the Minister of Justice . . .. 1 1 2 .. 2 is known Under conviction for sentence .. .. 1 11 1 3 9 1 24 2 26 Total new prisoners received .. .. .,18 827 35 28 . . 40 .. 69 .. 71 1 54 .. 363 .... 22 .. 9 8 .. 79 .. 31 .. 36 .. 38 .. 439 .. 86 .. 242 2 64 ..2,475 872,562 On remand or for trial .. .. .. .. 6 192 14 .... 12 1 38 . . 20 .. 43 . . .. 7 .. Is... 2 1 . . 19 4 86 110 6 .. .. 529 39 568 Total.. .. .. .. .... 241,019 49 28 .. 52 1 69 .. 109 1 74 .. 412 .... 29 . 10 8 .. 81 . . 31 .. 37 .. 57 4 525 . . 86 .. 352 8 64 ..3.004126 3,130 Debtors .. .. . . .. 14 2 .. 8 .. 3 1 .. 22 27 .. 3 .. 80 .. 80 Lunatics . . . . . . \ 1 . .. 1 3 3 Total new persons received .. .. . . 24 1,033 49j 28 ..52 1 69| . . Ill 1 82 .. 416 .... 29 .. 10 8 .. 81 .. 31 .. 37 .. 59 4 548 . . 86 .. 379 8 67 ..3,0871263,213 On transfer or in transitu .. .. .. .... 3 137 4; 6 . . 12 .. 2| .. 49 3 16 .. 57 . . .. 3 .. 4 9 .. 22 .. 7 .. 18 . . 26 3 201 .. 11 . . 155 5 .. .. 728 25 753 Grand totals .. LJ .. .. 27 1,17pl 53! 34 ..64 1 .. 160 4 98 .. 473 .. .. 32 .. 14 17 ..103 .. 38 .. 55 .. 85 7 749 .. 97 .. 534 13 67 .. 3,8isll51 3,966 * Deemed to be prisons under the provisionsof section 17 of the Statute Law Amendment Act, 1917.

H.—2o

Table A— continued. Table showing Particulars, for each Prison, of Prisoners at Beginning and End of Year, and received and discharged during Year 1937— continued.

24

I - »-< # 1.3d | I i | 1 a lo ? f §1 t «; § -d I t m I I 1 la| < «| a 3 | I If I I !> § s h i ill „■ I- si m w|| & -i 1 1 I si 53 S h •9 S += |W ft 2 •£ fetj -*3 "S W to Tj, S 81» Is bc *S EH o /? a> co s § § 1 a a I i §~ | -I a | I gg 9 s ? ~~ |S 1 3 1 w s l_ g g *_ 3 (e) Discharged during the year :— On expiration of sentence — m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m f Simple imprisonment, hard labour .. .. .. 15 786 28 .. .. 22 59 .. 16 ..271 .. .. 16 3 29 .. 390 .. 32 .. 245 4 64 1 Q17 1 QSft Reformative detention .. .. .. .. .. 1 2 ] ] ' 4 1 ' 5 Detention in Borstal institution .. .. 2 3 2 3 5 On special remission — Hard labour .. .. .. .. .. 1 13 . . 1 .. 4 5 .. 1 .. 14 5 .. 17 5 .. 1 .. 17 . . 30 .. 3 116 1 117 Reformative detention .. .. .. 1 3 1 4 j g Died .. .. .. .. .. 1 1 2 2 Executed .. .. .. .. Absconded and not retaken .. .. Committed suicide .. .. .. 1 1 1 Released on recommendation of Prisons or Parole Board — Hard labour .. .. .. .. . . . . 1 22 . . 19 .. 6 8 .. 38 3 .. 37 23 . . 4 . . 17 . . 19 196 1 197 Reformative detention .. .. . . . . . . 1 7 1 8 . . 7 8 .. 21 . . . . 3 .. . . 9 . . 45 13 .. 3 . . 13 .. 12 146 5 151 Detention in Borstal institution .. .. 68 10 26 5 1 99 11 110 Habitual criminals .. .. .. 20 . . 1 1 .. 4 1 1 28 28 Total criminals discharged to freedom . . . . 19 850 29 30 . . 39 . . 70 . . 64 . . 37 . . 348 . . . . 20 . . 13 17 . . 103 .. 26 . . 44 . . 38 . . 439 . . 93 . . 253 5 64 . .2 515 86 2 601 Acquitted and after remand .. .. .. .. 1 11 2 .... 13 1 .. .. 1 63 2.. 5 ]2 2 107 6 'll3 Debtors .. .. .. .. 12 1 5 .. 15 .. 4 .. .. 1 1 .. 19 .. !! !! 25 .. 3 .. 85 1 86 Lunatics transferred to mental hospitals .. 1 3 .. 1 4 4 3 7 i jg g 04. Total persons discharged from prison .. ..20 874 31 30 .. 53 1 73 .. 71 .. 52 ..419 .. .. 21 .. 17 17 ..103 .. 26 .. 44 .. 41 .. 466 .. 93 .. 297 8 67 ..2 726 98 2 824 Transferred to other prisons or to the police .. .. 4 314 17 8 .. 7 .. 1 .. 86 4 36 .. 61 .. .. 11 .. 4 12 .. 22 . . 1 .. 21 .. 44 5 312 .. 9 242 8 l'l76 53l'2->Q Released on bail .. .. .. .. .. 2 10 2 3 .. 1 .. 6 .. .. 3 1 10 2 !! " ' 34 6 ' 40 Grand totals .. .. .. .. .. 26 1,198 48 38 .. 62 1 74 .. 160 4 89 .. 486 . . .. 35 .. 21 29 .. 125 .. 27 .. 65 .. 85 6 788 .. 102 .. 541 16 67 ..3,936157 4,093 ;d) In prison at end of year :— Undergoing — Simple imprisonment, hard labour — Under three months .. .. .. 26 2 .... 2 3 13 .... 1 16 .. 2 6 68 3 71 Three months and under one year .. .. .. 4 23 5 3 .. 3 8 .. 4 .. 37 . . .. 1 .. .. 1 .. 11 3 2 11 12 2 120 10 130 One year and upwards .. .. .. .. 1 71 2 18 .. 6 1 .. 42 .. 27 8 . . 38 28 3 23 .. 16 ! 281 3 284 Detention as habitual criminals .. .. 23 .. 1 1 . . 3 1 . . 3 2 .. • ■ • ■ Reformative detention .. .. .. .. .. 7 16 2 6.. 3 1.. 9.. 5 .... 3.... 6.. 27 10.. 5.. 18.. 8.. 114 12 1^6 Detention in Borstal institution . . . . 93 15 36 1 jgg jg j^g Total criminals in prison .. .. .12 159 11 28 . . 14 . . 93 .. 13 .. 56 .. 85 .. . . 5 . . 15 15 . . 76 . . 36 . . 42 .. 13 71 .. 38 8 747 43 790 For trial or on remand .. .. .. 20 2 2.. 1.. 3 2 1 6.. 7 41 3 44 Total in prison for criminal offences . . . . 12 179 13 28 .. 14 .. 93 .. 15 . . 57 . . 88 . . .. 5 .. 15 15 .. 76 .. 36 42 .. 15 1 77 .. 38 .. 15 788 46 834 Debtors ... .. .. .. 1 j 2 Total persons in prison . . LJ . . 12 180j 13 28 . . 14 . . 93 . . 15 .. 57 .. 88 . . • J 5 . . 15 15l ..! 76 .. 36 .. 42 .. 15 1 77 . . 38 15 789 46 835 * Deemed to be prisons under the provisions of section 17 of the Statute Law Amendment Act, 1917.

H.—2o

25

4—H. 20.

Table Ai. Table showing Number of Prisoners at each Prison or Institution in the Dominion during the Year 1937.

Sickness. (c.) Number of Distinct Prisoners ill on One or More Occasions, _ , __ , . with Number of Occasions, Total Number of Separate _ . GreatestNumber m Least Number in Daily Average Number of Illnesses, Total Number of Days, and Daily Average on Name of Prison. ' Prisoners. (a) Greatest Number (b) Admissions Sick-list. at One Time. at One Time. m at any One | to Hospital during Time. Year. . . • ~ Number Total Daily <6 ® p® >2 xS'Oc of Number Average 2 > gS ©£ £.5 25 §£ Separate of on O HHH H Illnesses. Days ill. Sick-list. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. M. F. T. Addington (Women's Reformatory) .. 15 15 .. 6 6 .. 9-12 9-12 .. 2 2 .. .. .. 4 1 .. 6 33 0-09 Auckland .. .. .. 212 8 220 159 5 164 187 04 7-67 194-72 9 9 12 1 13 59 10 6 1 1 106 1,181 3-24 Hautu (Tokaanu) .. .. 35 35 21 21 26*40 .. 26-40 4 .. 4 .. .. .. 4 3.. 1 .. 14 99 0-27 Invercargill .. .. .. 19 .. 19 6 6 13*50 .. 13-50 3.. 3 2.. 273 1.. 2.. 26 129 0-35 Invercargill (Borstal institution) .. 98 98 85 85 93-00 .. 93-00 9 9 12 12 41 17 13 4 3 3 180 1,110 3*04 Napier .. .. .. 26 26 6 6 14-24 0-01 14-25 2 2 6 1 8 79 0-22 New Plymouth . . .. .. 61 61 44 44 50-49 .. 50-49 5 5 14 6 .. 4 .. 42 265 0-73 Paparua (Templet on) .. .. 119 119 77 77 96-81 .. 96-81 3 3 2 2 19 3 25 141 0-39 Pt. Halswell (Women's Reformatory) .. 9 9 .. 2 2 .. 5-50 5-50 .. .. .. .. .. .. Point Halswell (Borstal institution) .. 23 23 .. 14 14 .. 17-70 17-70 .. 2 2 .. 8 8 4 2 .. 8 194 0-53 Rangipo .. .. .. 27 27 15 15 19-60 .. 19-60 5 5 6 2 1.... 1 24 230 0-63 Waikeria (Reformatory) .. .. 98 .. 98 69 .. 69 76-10 .. 76-10 6 .. 6 3 .. 3 18 6 2 1 .. 41 198 0-54 Waikeria (Borstal institution) .. 35 .. 35 12 .. 12 24-43 .. 24-43 3 .. 3 6 .. 6 7 2 .. 11 78 0-21 Waikune (Erua) .. .. 59 59 42 42 45-63 .. 45-63 4.. 4 2.. 2 21 822.. 1 57 386 1-06 Wanganui .. .. .. 27 27 8 8 12-48 .. 12-48 2.. 2 2.. 242 8 75 0-21 Wellington .. .. .. 129 .. 129 73 .. 73 96-24 .. 96-24 6 6 4 4 21 4 2 1 .. 39 405 1-11 Wi Tako (Trentham) .. .. 48 48 33 33 40-50 .. 40-50 3 .. 3 2 .. 2 10 10 75 0-21 Minor prisons and police-gaols .. .. .. .. •• •• •• 13-81 .. 13-81 .. .. .. 1 .. 1 2 .. 2 17 0-05 Police lock-ups* .. .. .. •• •• •• •• •• 16-27 .. 16-27 .. .. .. .. .. .. Totals .. ..J 826-54 40-00 866-55 .. .. .. 48 9 57 247 70 27 13 7 5 607 4,695 12-88 * Deemed to be prisons under the provisions of section 17 of the Statute Law Amendment Act, 1917.

H.—2o

Table B. Income and Expenditure Account for the Year ended 31st March, 1938. Expenditure.. £ s. d. Income. £ s. d. Rations .. .. .. .. .. 15,841 9 8 Rents of departmental buildings .. .. 3,893 10 0 Clothing, footwear, and equipment .. .. 6,916 3 3 Sundry credits and recoveries.. .. .. 4,958 16 11 Earnings, wages, and gratuities: Prisoners and Value of prison labour capitalized on work .. 752 10 10 dependants .. .. .. .. 12,235 7 2 Surplus on industry working .. .. .. 11,142 410 Hospital maintenance and medicines .. .. 986 18 8 Net cost, departmental upkeep .. .. 133,742 3 0 Transport and travelling expenses .. .. 5,134 1 2 Maintenance of buildings and grounds .. .. 3,371 16 1 Salaries and allowances .. .. .. 63,704 13 6 Fuel, light, water, &c. .. .. .. 5,909 1 3 Postages, telegrams, stationery, &c. .. .. 1,264 19 2 Interest and depreciation .. .. .. 32,862 1 4 Administration expenses .. .. .. 6,262 14 4 £154,489 5 7 £154,489 5 7 Balance-sheet as at 31st March, 1938. Liabilities. £ s. d. Assets. £ s. d. Capital Account .. .. .. .. 769,759 311 Land, buildings, and improvements .. .. 662,094 6 2 Sundry creditors .. .. .. .. 5,267 3 3 Farm, live-stock, implements, &c. .. .. 52,112 0 3 Accrued earnings .. .. .. .. 2,862 11 9 Plant, machinery, equipment, and stores .. 54,313 18 6 Deposits .. .. .. .. .. 765 8 2 Sundry debtors .. .. .. .. 6,200 3 2 Writings-off in Suspense .. .. .. 2,300 18 6 Deposits .. .. .. .. .. 2,004 7 2 Treasury Adjustment Account .. .. 136,511 11 9 Expenditure paid in advance .. .. .. 32 1 3 Writings-off in Suspense .. .. .. 2,300 18 6 Departmental cost for year— Prisons and administration .. .. 133,742 3 0 Prisons Board .. .. .. .. 377 8 7 Probation .. .. .. .. 4,289 10 9 • £917,466 17 4 £917,466 17 4 G. 0. Hall, A.R.A.N.Z., Accountant.

26

H.—2o

Table Bi. Analysis of Value of all Prison Labour for the Year ended 31st March, 1938.

5—H. 20.

27

I Capital Works. Industries. Institutional. i Annual | i I t» • Daily Value i Erection ! Boot ; Block Qn „_.„ ! .SirS*!. Domestic Domestic Domestic T . , Average of ! of I Farm- Manu- i Farms and Tile 'works and Mi s «el- Cleaning Launder- Cooking, Number of Labour Buildings ! develop- factoring and Manu- „???, i laneous ™ and ing and Baking, Inmates. per and ment. and [ Gardens, factnr- !SL ! Industries. Buddings [ g an jtary, Eepairs to and Head. 5 Plant. Eepairs. ! ing. pits - ! Con racte ' a f d , Ac. Clothing. Rationing. j Sites. | ££££££££££ £££ £ Addington .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 17 .. .. 32 .. 119 8 28 204 9-90 20-60 Auckland .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 606 54 720 .. 1,087 83 744 382 366 4,042 193-61 20-88 Hautu .. .. .. .. .. 13 40 376 .. .. .. 84 89 38 102 742 25-52 29-07 Rangipo .. .. .. .. .. .. 42 .. 317 .. .. .. 5 37 31 36 468 18-72 25-00 Invercargill .. .. .. .. .. 140 14 106 968 .. .. .. 297 348 208 250 2,331 106-41 21-91 Napier .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 25 206 .. .. 47 25 25 46 374 14-11 26-51 New Plymouth .. .. .. .. 4 .. 450 631 .. 73 216 133 118 1,625 52-82 30-76 Paparua .. .. .. .. .. 186 .. 760 37 653 .. 422 210 218 263 2,749 96-20 28-57 Point Halswell .. .. .. .. .. .. 95 .. .. 199 95 4 49 442 21-77 20-30 Waikeria .. .. .. .. .. 169 24 .. 1,852 .. .. .. .. 389 344 189 293 3,260 102-70 31-74 Waikune .. .. .. .. .. 101 .. .. 54 .. 2,010 .. 192 78 82 163 2,680 46-60 57-51 Wanganui .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 36 .. .. .. 85 52 19 27 219 12-72 17-21 Wellington .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 498 .. .. 104 639 348 136 197 1,922 89-60 21-56 WiTako .. .. .. .. .. 20 .. 757 .. .. .. 115 90 41 159 1,182 41-30 28-64 Minor gaols .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. .. 53 22 3 .. 78 19-99 3-90 Totals .. .. .. .. 633 120 712 6,259 37 2,210 2,010 1,422 2,484 2,817 1,517 2,097 22,318 851-97 26-20 I i

H.—2o.

Table C. Table showing the Actual Number of Distinct Convicted Prisoners received into Gaol during the Year 1937, classified according to Principal Offences, Birthplace, and Age.

28

Offences against the Offences against „ Person. Property. Miscellaneous. . Total. Indictment. conWctecL deceit?" 1 Mischief ' Drunkenness." Vagrancy.f Qflences. Birthplaces— M. F. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. m. f. New Zealand .. 85 2 51 2 475 23 52 2 249 6 58 19 346 13 1,316 67 Australia .. .. 7 4 16 1 3 20 5 2 20 75 3 England and Wales .. 15 5 41 3 79 1 8 1 90 1 241 3 Scotland .. .. 4 1 5 .. 27 2 2 .. 40 5 1 25 .. 108 4 Ireland .. .. 1 4 16 1 38 .. 3 .. 21 84 Other British countries 1 3 1 6 .. .. 1 12 23 1 China .. .. 1 33 .. 34 Other countries .. 2 1 6 1 3 .. 1 .. 18 32 At sea .. .. .. Not stated .. .. .. Totals 116 3 70 2 584 26 63 2 435 7 80 24 565 14 1,913 78 Ages— 15 and under 20 years.. 3 3 66 4 16 .. .. 3 3 15 2 106 9 20 „ 25 „ .. 16 .. 17 .. 124 4 20 .. 15 8 7 88 4 288 15 25 „ 30 „ .. 18 .. 11 .. 109 1 13 .. 24 .. 10 3 92 1 277 5 30 „ 40 „ 30 .. 21 .. 145 2 9 .. 63 2 13 4 167 .. 448 8 40 „ 50 „ 19 2 10 1 83 10 3 1 116 1 21 4 101 3 353 22 50 „ 60 „ 20 .. 5 1 45 5 2 1 139 4 18 2 63 3 292 16 60 and over .. .. 9 1 3 .. 12 76 7 1 38 1 145 3 Not stated .. .. 1 2 .. .. .. 1.. 4 Totals 116 3 70 2 584 26 63 2 435 7 80 24 565 14 1,913 78 Maoris included above .. 20 20 1 102 4 21 1 18 8 61 1 250 7 * It must be remembered that drunkenness is punished more by fine than by imprisonment, so that the figures in the gaol tables do not represent the full number of persons punished for that offence. f Including importuning, consorting with rogues, &c.

H.—2o.

Table D. PRISONS.—NEW ZEALAND BORN PRISONERS RECEIVED, 1937. Table showing the Number of Distinct New Zealand born Convicted Prisoners of each Sex (including Maoris) received during the Year 1937, classified according to Ages and Offences.

Table E. PRISONS.—MAORI PRISONERS RECEIVED, 1937. Table showing the Number, Ages, and Offences of Distinct Convicted Maoris (Male and Female) received into the various Gaols during the Year 1937.

29

12 and 15 and 20 and 25 and 30 and 40 and Not Totals under 15. under 20. under 25. under 30. under 40. upwards. stated. Offences. H. F. M. I F. M. F. M. F. M. F. M. ! F. M. F. M. F. l__ '■ Offences against the person— Convicted on indictment 3 13 18 22 28 2 1 85 2 Convicted summarily 3 13 10 14 11 2 51 2 Offences against propertyTheft and deceit .. 64 4 112 4 92 1 119 2 88 12 .. .. 475 23 Mischief.. .. 15 .. 18 .. 11 .. 3 5 2.... 52 2 Drunkenness .. 12 18 49 2 169 4 1 .. 249 6 Vagrancy* .. .. 3 2 8 7 9 3 12 4 26 3 58 19 Other offences .. 10 2 59 4 57 1 114 106 6 .. .. 346 13 Totals, 1937 98 8 235 15 215 5 333 8 433 31 2 .. 1,316 67 Totals, 1936 74 12 238 16 192 6 273 6 371 31 2 .. 1,150 71 Totals, 1935 109 13 291 12 233 8 390 14 381 30 1 ..1,405 77 Totals, 1934 103 8 323 19 262 9 411 22 418 51 1 .. 1,518 109 Totals, 1933 148 11 358 25 288 9 477 25 459 49 8 ..1,738 119 ■"Including importuning, consorting with rogues, &c.

12 and 15 and 20 and 25 and 30 and 40 and Wot Totals under 15. under 20. under 25. under 30. under 40. upwards. stated. Offences. ■ M. F. M. F. M. I F. M. I F. M. j F. M. i F. M. | F. M. F. ! i i 1 | L OfFences against the person — Convicted on indictment 2 .. 6 .. 4 .. 5 .. 3 20 .. Summarily convicted .. 2 .. 7 3 .. 6 .. 2 1 .. • ■ Theft and deceit .. .. 25 2 30 1 26 1 16 5 102 4 Mischief .. .. .. .. .. 8 .. 8 .. 3 2 1 .. •• 21 Drunkenness .. .. 3 .. 5 .. 5 .. 5 18 Vagrancy .. .. .... .. 1 .. 4 . . .. .. 3 8 .. Other offences .. .. 4 .. 17 1 13 .. 18 9 61 Totals .. ' 42 2 75 2 54 1 53 .. 26 2 .. ..250 7

H.—2o.

Table F. PRISONERS.— AGES AND SENTENCES. Table showing the Ages of Distinct Prisoners received under Sentence during the Year 1937, with Information as to Length of Sentence.

' i i i i i i i i i i i Approximate Cost of Paper.—Preparation, not given ; printing (710 copies), £45.

By Authority: E. V. Paul, Government Printer, Wellington.— 1938. Price 9d.\

30

Total Length of Sentence. Age ' Under ' 1 Week 1 Month 3 Months 6 Months , 9 Months j 1 Year j 2 Years 3 Years 4 Years 5 Years 7 Years 10 Years 12 Years 15 Years Habitual 1 Week i and under and under and under and under and under and under and under and under and under and under and under and under and under and under Life. Death. Crimi- asnnite or Totals. 1 Month. 3 Months. 6 Months. 9 Months, j 12 Months. 2 Years. 3 Years. 4 Years. 5 Years. 7 Years. 10 Years. 12 Years. 15 Years. 20 Years. nals n °t statea : i Periods. j - M. F. M. F. M. F. M. F. M. F. M. F. M. F. M. F. M. F. M. F. M. F. M. F. M. F. M. F. M. F. M. F. M. F. M. F. M. F. M. F. 15 and under 16 1 1 2 16 „ 17 2 1 5 .. 1 " " I! " " 8 i 17 „ 18 1 1 4 12 9 27 18 „ 19 2 .. 6 3 1 1 1 3 1 7 2 6 29 4 19 „ 20 1 1 4 .. 10 .. 3 1 4 1 12 2 5 40 4 20 „ 21 3 8 11 .. 7 3 4 1 9 1 2 47 2 21 „ 25 15 1 52 1 60 3 36 2 13 2 8 .. 17 3 29 1 9 .. 1 i 241 13 25 „ 30 29 .. 62 1 74 .. 28 3 27 . . 4 .. 37 1 12 .. 3 .. 1 277 5 30 35 28 .. 50 1 52 .. 34 1 21 1 3 .. 32 .. 12 1 5 .. 2 .. 1 " 240 4 35 „ 40 34 2 39 1 47 .. 34 .. 21 1 2 .. 16 .. 8 .. 5 2 .... 208 4 40 „ 45 48 1 44 3 48 2 16 2 12 1 2 .. 18 2 5 .. 2 .. 2 .. 1 i 199 11 45 „ 50 46 2 32 2 32 3 13 4 10 .. 2 . . 13 .. 2 .. 2 1 . . .. " i 154 11 50 55 56 3 36 2 29 5 16 2 3 2 1 .. 9 .. 4 .. 4 . . 2 .. 1 161 14 55 „ 60 55 2 35 .. 15 .. 9 .. 6 .. 1 . . 7 .. 2 . . 1 " 131 2 60 „ 65 . 28 .. 19 .. 10 .. 10 .. 4 1 1 .. 1 .. 2 1 .. 1 77 1 65 „ 70 25 .. 6 6 6 1 1 1 . . 2 47 1 70 „ 75 10 1 5 1 1 17 1 75 „ so 3 " ; ' " " " " 3 80 and over . . 1 2 Not stated .. 1 1 .. 1 1 4. Totals .. 386 13 398 11 400 13 214 16 123 8 24 166 9 120 8 62 .. 10 .. 7 1 2 .. 1,913 78~ .