PRISONS (REPORT ON) FOR THE YEAR 1947-48

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1948 Session I, H-20

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1948 NEW ZEALAND

PRISONS (REPORT ON) FOR THE YEAR 1947-48

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

The Hon. the Minister op Justice to His Excellency the Governor-General Wellington, 12th July, 1948. I have the honour to submit to Your Excellency the report of the Controller-General on the prisons and Borstal institutions of the Dominion for the year 1947-48. I have, &c., H. G. R. Mason, Minister of Justice.

The Controller-General of Prisons to the Hon. the Minister of Justice I have the honour to present the annual report for the Prisons Department for the financial year ending 31st March, 1948, and incorporating the criminal statistics for the year ending 31st December, 1947. INTRODUCTORY Attention is directed to the reports of Controlling Officers of the various institutions submitted as annexures hereto, as these reports set out in detail the diversified range of activities carried on with a view to keeping prisoners usefully and interestedly occupied and at the same time making a practical contribution to the Dominion's industrial production. The aim generally is to provide suitable occupation for prisoners, with emphasis on the inculcation of habits of industry, the stimulation of interest, and, as far as practicable, the development of aptitudes so that the prisoners may be better equipped to follow useful employment on release. The reports also show that proper attention is given to the medical care of prisoners? their feeding and clothing. The Department, more particularly in institutions where the younger offenders are detained, pays especial attention to the encouragement of recreational activities, the development of the team spirit being considered a basic factor in cultivating a corporate and community sense. Educational work has been extended through direct class work, lectures under the auspices of the W.E.A., and in

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remote institutions by taking advantage of the facilities provided by the Correspondence School. The privileges of the National Library Service have been extended to our institutions, which supplements the institution libraries with more attractive and up-to-date books. Wireless is now installed in all the larger institutions, and a regular circuit for the showing of 16 mm. films has been arranged. The Department is mindful that prisons are not intended to be places of comfort and enjoyment, and all amenities are designed to be corrective and reformative. The prison population during 1947 was a little higher than during the previous year. Fortunately, there has been no substantial crime wave in New Zealand such as has swept the larger countries that experienced more closely the direct impact and aftermath of war. The daily average number of prisoners in custody during 1917 was 1,109, as compared with the figure of 1,060 for 1946. The number of distinct persons received into prison during 1947 was 1,351 —that is, 138 in excess of the number of receptions in the previous year. This increase, although not so marked as elsewhere, is nonetheless in common with the experience of countries overseas. For example the last English Prison report states that in 1947 the daily average prison population was 17,300, which exceeded any figure there subsequent to 1913, and it is symptomatic of the conditions of the times. There appears to have been an increased disregard of the obligations of citizenship and an absence of self-restraint and self-control, due largely to a prevading inclination to subordinate worthwhile long-term aims to the hasty gratification of short-term desires. This may be simply a post-war condition, the world being in a state of unrest, and in the social surge our prisoners represent the flotsam and jetsam. The problem is largely one of bringing about a reorientation of attitudes. Prison officers are enjoined to strive to awaken in those committed to the Department's care a consciousness of the fact that the enjoyment of rights and liberties involves the assumption of corresponding responsibilities and obligations and a respect for the rights of others. This reformative philosophy is expressly stated in Prison Regulation 25, which reads : The great object of reclaiming the criminal should always be kept in view by all officers, and they should strive to acquire a moral influence over the prisoners . . . They should especially try to raise the prisoners' minds to a proper feeling of moral obligation. STATISTICS Receptions.—A table showing the total number of receptions and discharges at each institution is included as an annexure to this report, but for convenience of comparison the following summary shows the totals for each of the past five years :

It will be noted from the above table that the number of receptions during 1947 exceeded the total for the previous year by 242, though, as stated earlier, the increase in the number of distinct persons was only 138. It should also be noted that included

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— . 1943. 1944. 1945. 1946. 1947. Number in custody at beginning of year Number received during year Number discharged or transferred Number in prison at end of year 1,064 4,622 4,608 1,077 1,077 4,089 4,173 993 993 3,996 3,949 1,040 1,040 4,368 4,376 1,032 1,032 4,610 4,505 1,137

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in the receptions during 1947 are 442 ship-deserters, which number again unduly swells the aggregate for the year. The total number of persons received in 1947 was lower than the figure for 1942 and 1943, and it may be said that, subject to occasional minor fluctuations, the general trend since 1914 has been downward. The ratio of prisoners to each 10,000 of the total population of the Dominion in 1914 was 31*05, and in 1947 it was 13-04. Nature of Offences. —The following table gives a comparative summary of the offences classified under three main groupings—that is, offences against the person, offences against property, and miscellaneous offences :

The number of offences against the person increased by 43, and approximately half of this increase was due to the number of sexual offences being slightly higher than during the previous year. It will also be noted that the number of offences against property has risen. Additional cases of theft, and breaking, entering, &c., largely accounts for the increase. When regard is had to the high wages and full employment conditions prevailing it is clear that the cause of crime lies more in aberrant-ethical conduct than from the pressure of any real need or economic want, a condition which reflects adversely on, and seems to suggest something amiss in respect of, social and moral attitudes. Although most of the repeaters are of the facile type who are easily led astray, only a small percentage of criminal conduct could properly be ascribed to mental impairment to a degree that the offender should not be held accountable. " Faulty early training is the root cause of crime," is the recent dictum of Dr. Roper, an English authority. The cause would seem to be much wider in its social implications. The Superintendent of the Invercargill Borstal, in analysing the cause of delinquency amongst youths, states : . . . the major underlying factor is undoubtedly unsatisfactory home and family circumstances . . . High wages, unsettled economic conditions, the ease of finding new jobs are probably also contributing factors. The consummation of happiness of a community cannot be attained to solely by the amelioration of economic conditions such as the raising of wages and living standards, &c., due regard must be had to the spiritual factors, particularly goodness and honesty. These should be inculcated in the young, and preferably in the home. Prisons at best are probably the least fitted for undertaking this delicate task, for only in a negative way does the application of sanctions, designed to impress on an offender that crime does not pay, operate. In other words, the adoption of the old adage regarding " fences and the ambulance " would dimmish the inflow of prisoners and assist in resolving much of the crime problem.

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Tear. Offences against the Person. Offences against Property. Miscellaneous Offences. Total. 1947 1946 1945 1944 1943 1942 1941 .. 1940 1939 .. 1938 .. 264 221 226 218 239 309 249 238 23S 197 1,049 974 985 947 1,060 969 781 789 777 740 1,038 1,018 854 934 1,183 1,751 1,339 1,174 1,490 1,287 2,351 2,213 2,065 2,099 2,482 3,029 2,369 2,201 2,505 2,224

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Length of Sentence.—Hereunder is set out a table in comparative form showing the length of sentence imposed on offenders :

It will be observed, as in previous years, that just over 50 per cent, of the total number of distinct persons sentenced to imprisonment were given terms of three months or less, and that 64 per cent, received terms of less than six months. There is a growing opinion amongst oversea authorities that unless the offence or circumstances associated with its committal are such that really call for imprisonment, it is better in many cases to have recourse to probation. Short sentences are disruptive and serve practically no purpose from a reformative point of view, and, indeed, the deterrent purpose is very little served, for under modern prison conditions virtually the only punitive element is the loss of liberty. At successive penitentiary congresses it has been stressed that the indeterminate sentence is the most effective safeguard of the community against persistent offenders. In New Zealand there is provision under the Crimes Act (section 29) whereby a Judge may declare as an habitual criminal a person convicted on at least two occasions of a sexual nature, or on four occasions for other indictable offences, and, further, section 30 provides that where a person has been convicted on six previous occasions of offences under the Police Offences Act involving at least three months' imprisonment the Magistrate may refer the case to a Judge in order that the accused may be declared to be an habitual offender. It is of interest to note that, notwithstanding that approximately 30 per cent, of the total receptions in our prisons are of the petty recidivist type who are not deterred, or in respect of whom society is not protected, by repeated short sentences, there has been no recourse by the Courts to section 30, at least during the past twenty years, and possibly longer. Reformative detention as prescribed under the Crimes Amendment Act, 1910, is a modified form of indeterminate sentence, but with the maximum fixed by the Courts. Section 3 of the Act quoted provides that on the conviction of any person on indictment the Judge, having regard to " the conduct, character, associations, or mental condition of such person, the nature of the offence, or any special circumstances," may impose up to ten years' detention for reformative purposes, and section 4 provides that where a person has been convicted summarily of an offence rendering him liable to three or more months' imprisonment the Magistrate may impose detention for reformative purposes for any period not exceeding three years. The actual term of detention which a prisoner is required to serve depends largely upon his own reactions as manifested by his industry and behaviour in prison and his satisfying the Prisons Board as to the likelihood that he will abstain from crime in the future. The Prisons Board has power to review a reformative sentence at any time, and if it thinks fit, having regard to the public safety and the welfare of the prisoner, may recommend release on probationary licence or on discharge.

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Number of Prisoners. Term of Sentence. i 1943. 1944. 1945. 1946. | 1947. Under one month 430 367 364 425 349 One month and under three months .. 824 627 639 753 866 Three months and under six months .. 421 327 318 274 313 Six months and under twelve months .. 241 189 197 203 224 One year and under three years 475 456 449 458 496 Three years and under five years 60 78 64 79 84 Five years and over 31 31 18 15 14 Indefinite (including " defaulters ") 24 26 6 5 Totals .. .. 2,482 2,099 I 2,065 2,213 2,351

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When penal servitude was abolished in New Zealand in 1893 imprisonment with or without hard labour was substituted. This form of sentence can be imposed for varying terms, from days to life, according to the gravity of the offence. The passing of the Crimes Amendment Act, 1910, thus marked a complete change of approach. (Incidentally an attitude now being given statutory recognition in England, by the Criminal Justice Bill (Imp.), which is designed to provide that instead of considering the offence chiefly, the Courts should look to the needs of the offender, the circumstances of the case, and the protection of the public.) Notwithstanding the more constructive purpose of a reformative-detention sentence, the fiction persists that a sentence of imprisonment is more punitive and thus a more deterrent and effective form of punishment, whereas the only justification for such an assumption is that a sentence of imprisonment, as distinct from reformative detention, is not generally reviewed by the Prisons Board until half the term of the sentence has been served. Prisoners under reformative detention are generally sent to the prison camps and farms, where the " open " system obtains, whilst short-sentence prisoners are largely detained intra-murally in town prisons where conditions are necessarily more restrictive, but their treatment is very little dissimilar. A further step towards the rationalizing of punishment was in the passing of the Prevention of Crime Act, 1924. This Act is designed to treat and arrest criminal propensities in young offenders in the incipient stages. The aim is for the offender to be kept in detention for a sufficiently long period to enable the reformative influence of the discipline of hard work and training to have their full effect, in addition to removing him from the old environment and undesirable associations. The object of the system of Borstal training is a balanced round of work, education, and recreation, with the purpose of developing self-respect, self-reliance, and habits of industry in the offender, enabling him ultimately to take his place in the community when released as a dependable and worthy citizen. In 1939 certain statutory restrictions were placed on the imprisonment of persons under twenty-one years. Under section sof the Summary Penalties Act, 1939, a person under the age of twenty-one shall not be imprisoned unless the Magistrate is satisfied from the character and circumstances of the defendant that no other method of dealing with him is appropriate. It will be seen that the general idea underlying the legislation relating to crime has been to shift the emphasis from the crime to need of the criminal so far as it is consonant with the protection of society, and there is also a recognition that time is an essential element in effecting reformation. Short sentences are largely futile in this respect, and in many instances, instead of imposing them, it would be better if appropriate alternatives were tried. Nationality of Offenders. —The following table shows the prisoners, grouped on a nationality basis, received into prison over the past ten years

It is noted that the number under each group has increased slightly. The increas in the number of prisoners from overseas was due to the influx of ship-desertion case

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Year. JTew-Zealand-born (excluding Maoris). Maoris. British and Foreign. Total. 1947 1,078 446 827 2,351 1946 1,006 422 785 2,213 1945 1,109 430 526 2,065 1944 1,105 553 441 2,099 1943 1,401 523 558 2,482 1942 1,880 450 699 3,029 1941 1,402 346 621 2,369 1940 1,257 330 614 2,201 1939 .. 1,427 310 768 2,505 1938 .. 1,248 252 724 2,224

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The recession in the number of Maori offenders shown in last year's report was not maintained, although the number is still substantially down on the peak years during the war. The Superintendent of the Invercargill Borstal writes : The number of Maoris admitted seems rather out of proportion to the population, but the cause is somewhat obscure ; it may be the drift to the cities, unsettled circumstances, or even maladjustment to our civilization. We find them amenable to discipline and good at their work if they are placed on the right jobs. Poor home conditions are frequently noticed in their case histories. Dr. Dale, the Schoolmaster at Mount Eden Prison, commenting on the cause of Maoris being involved in crime, writes : One is forced to the conclusion that the breakdown of Native village life, the demand for labour in the cities, and the lack of care for the Maori migrant to factories and shops have some part to play in the misdemeanours which bring the Maori within the grip of the law. Is this purely a sociological problem for the Justice Department ? I suggest that, while it is partly that of the prison to do its best to put these men back into civilian life without too much bruising, other institutions have a part to bear in helping to adjust the many maladjusted migrants to the cities and smaller centres of population. Nor can youth be blamed for the crime problem. Many Maori prisoners are no longer young ; some have had experience with the Forces, but it is still safe to say that most of them are immatureimmature from the point of view of experience in a pakeha community. Personal experience has shown that an inadequate appreciation of language, together with an ingrained aversion to looking foolish in a pakeha group, has led many a Maori along the path that finishes in prison. The problem is one that affects the school, but it is not solely the problem of the school. Rather, it is suggested, it is a problem that affects, and should be the concern of, many of our social organizations. The school is trying to do its part in facing and assisting to clear up the problem which society presents. Age of Offenders. —Hereunder is set out a ten year table showing offenders classified in age-groups :

It is interesting to note the trend in recent years as contrasted with the beginning of the decade and earlier years, is for the younger offenders to predominate. Hitherto by far the larger amount of criminality was amongst those round about forty and over. Crime to-day seems to manifest itself more among the young larrikin, round about twenty-five years and under. MISCELLANEOUS Deaths. —There were 3 deaths recorded during 1947, 1 from a ruptured aneurism, 1 from toxsemia, and 1 from fracture of the skull, the result of an accident. Escapes.-—During the year 32 prisoners and 23 Borstal detainees (9 from Arohata) escaped from custody. Four of the escapees (all prisoners) have not yet been recaptured. One made his way to Australia, where he committed further offences and was sentenced to a substantial term of imprisonment. Mental Defectives. —A total of 29 persons were transferred from prisons and Borstals to the various mental hospitals—3 under section 34 of the Mental Defectives Act, 10 under section 37, and 16 under section 38.

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Age-group. 1938. 1939. 1940. 1941. 1942. 1943. 1944. 1945. i ta j 1946. 1947. Under 20 123 178 203 201 308 354 283 254 294 244 20-25 362 424 348 478 749 639 506 524 698 713 25-30 321 413 322 405 531 396 354 343 341 441 30-40 555 612 492 533 709 490 461 470 412 486 40 and upwards 861 875 833 745 732 603 495 473 468 46ft Not stated 2 3 3 7 1 1 Totals 2,224 2,505 2,201 2,369 3,029 2,482 2,099 2,065 2,213 2,351

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Borstal Receptions : A total of 118 male and 18 female Borstal detainees were received direct from the Courts, while 4 were transferred to Borstal from the Burwood Girls' Home. Two males and 1 female were transferred by Ministerial order from prison to Borstal. Courts-martial: Nineteen courts-martial prisoners were received during the year. GENERAL HEALTH OF PRISONERS The general health of prisoners has been good. There were 82 males and 6 females admitted to the public hospitals or prison infirmaries during the year. The daily average on the sick-list throughout all institutions was 19*07, which is just below 2 per cent, of the daily average number in custody. In the majority of instances the sickness was due to the poor physical condition of prisoners on admission. There is a low incidence of sickness amongst prisoners generally, and this can be ascribed to the orderly routine and the well-balanced and wholesome diet. It is a notable fact that prisoners almost invariably leave prison in much better physical condition than when they enter. INDUSTRIAL AND FINANCIAL Hereunder is set out a comparative statement showing the gross cash expenditure from the departmental vote and the cash credits or receipts which have resulted from the industrial and other activities of the Department: —

It will be noted that the cash credits to the Department increased by some £15,000 from £97,726 in 1946-47 to £112,956 in 1947-48. There was a slight contraction of credits under some heads, but this was more than offset by an increase of £13,000 under " Farms and Gardens," £4,800 under " Quarries," and £1,600 under " Road-construction." The increased expenditure of almost £40,000 from vote, " Prisons " is due to larger expenditure on salaries and rising costs of many lines. The lifting of subsidies from meat and other lines purchased for the feeding and upkeep of those under the care of the Department has meant that more expenditure, not fully controllable by the administration, has been necessary. The salaries bill has increased by some £16,000, due to the general application of the £25 per annum increase as from Ist October, 1947, and also to some improvement in the general staffing position. At the majority of institutions staff is now on a more normal basis, but is still short, more particularly at Auckland and Wellington. The increased staff has enabled expenditure on overtime to be reduced from £14,000 in 1946-47 to £lO,OOO in 1947-48. However, the application of penal rates for weekend duty as from Ist April, 1948, will cause expenditure under this head to be considerably increased in 1948-49.

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Year. Gross Expenditure. Credits. Net Expenditure. Total. Per Head. Total. Per Head. Total. Per Head. £ £ £ £ £ £ 1938-39 .. 152,903 117-89 64,910 75-92 87,183 101-97 1939-40 .. 155,333 170-16 74,348 81-97 80,985 88-19 1940-41 .. 162,426 179-47 77,908 86-08 84,518 93-39 1941-42 .. 158,704 163-44 80,514 82-92 78,190 80-52 1942-43 .. 166,982 161-34 99,336 95-98 67,646 65-36 1943-44 .. 173,089 159-97 99,956 92-38 73,133 67-59 1944-45 179,627 174-92 100,451 97-82 79,176 77-10 1945-46 .. 195,648 186-58 98,560 93-99 97,088 92-59 1946-47 .. 212,746 201-59 97,726 92-60 115,020 108-99 1947-48 .. 252,541 226-17 112,956 101-16 139,585 125-01

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Expenditure on those rations which must be purchased as distinct from those produced by the Department has increased by some £3,700. An increase of £2,200 under the heading " Maintenance of Buildings " was due to paying during 1947-48 for a number of buildings and some equipment taken over from the National Service Department during an earlier period. On that portion of the vote dealing more closely with industrial activities there was also increased expenditure. For instance, on " Farms and Gardens " expenditure increased by £6,400. This was due largely to the increased cost of top-dressing and also to the purchase of more up-to-date equipment which became available. The above remarks relate only to cash receipts and payments from the departmental vote. At this stage the accounts on a trading basis for the industrial activities for the year ended 31st March, 1948, are incomplete, but it is anticipated that they will be at least as favourable as those for the year ended 31st March, 1947, some of which are now mentioned in more detail. The industrial activities of the Department for the year ended 31st March, 1947, showed a Public Account surplus, after charging full supervision (£22,700), interest (£11,200), and depreciation (£2,700), of £25,739. Whilst every endeavour is made to conduct industrial activities on an economic basis, emphasis is also placed on the occupational and vocational aspect. This policy assists in keeping down the cost of administration, and the diversification of the range of work fits in with the general scheme of classification of prisoners. The following schedule shows the variety of industries embarked upon and the result from a public account point of view : Public Accounts Surplus £ Blockmaking .. .. .. .. .. 20* Boot making and repairs .. .. .. .. 2,282 Brickworks .. .. .. .. .. .. 295* Farming .. .. .. .. .. .. 13,014 Gardening .. .. .. .. .. .. 800 Laundries .. .. .. .. .. .. 128 Roadworks .. .. .. .. .. 1,424 Quarrying .. .. .. .. .. .. 4,168 Tailoring .. .. .. .. .. .. 3,741 Tobacco .. .. .. .. .. .. 204 Miscellaneous .. .. .. .. .. 293 £25,739 * Deficit. The deficit on " Blockmaking," which covers the manufacture of paving stones and reinforced-concrete fencing-posts, was caused by the shortage of cement and reinforcing material, whilst that under the heading of " Brickworks " is in reality the overhead charges on uncleared capital liability as active manufacture of bricks was discontinued many years ago. It is not proposed to discuss each activity in detail but to mention only three of the larger ones—viz., " Tailoring," " Quarries," and " Farms and Gardens." The tailoring industry, which is carried on in a mechanized shop attached to Auckland Prison and covers also the laundry and repairs to the Post and Telegraph Department mail-bags, had an output valued at some £lO,OOO. This output covers the manufacture of all institutional clothing as well as a considerable quantity of clothing for the Mental Hospitals Department. This shop also makes the uniforms and overcoats as supplied to the Department's staff.

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The heading of " Quarries " covers two small quarries at New Plymouth and Napier, with a larger quarry at Auckland and a large gravel-pit at Paparua. The pit at Paparua has increased its output considerably over the past few years. For the years 1946, 1947, .and 1948 sales have been valued at £3.961, £7,720, and £9,500 respectively. Plans are now in hand for some extension of the mechanization at this pit, and this when installed should assist considerably to overcome the present difficulty of increasing output to fulfil outstanding orders so urgently required by the building industry. Auckland quarry had its best year in 1943, when sales were £11,700. Due, however, to supervision difficulties owing to shortage of staff, this quarry was not worked anything like full time, and for 1947 sales were reduced to £1,950. In 1948, because of better staffing, sales increased to £5,400. The output of " Farms and Gardens " for 1947 was valued at £68,000, and would, if all produce were sold on the open market instead of a considerable quantity being transferred to institutions for ration purposes, have been much higher. This satisfactory figure of £68,000 was contributed to by each institution, the output value of each being—- £ Arohata .. .. .. .. 670 Hautu .. .. .. .. 7,220 Invercargill .. .. .. .. 10,300 Paparua .. .. .. .. 8,850 Rangipo .. .. .. .. 3,000 Waikeria .. .. .. .. 28,900 Waikune .. .. .. .. 1,450 Wi Tako .. .. .. .. 4,400 Minor gardens .. .. .. 3,100 £67,890 From the figures already available for 1948 it is apparent that farm and garden ■output will exceed that for 1947 and that production value will considerably exceed the 1947 figure of £68,000. So far as is possible the Department's farms are Dot specialized, but give an all-round training in primary production. Apart from gardening, which is carried on at all institutions, practically every form of farming is practised. The scope covered is wide to include : (1) Dairying, including factory supply, pasteurization and bottling of milk for milk in schools, cream for ice-cream manufacture, and milk for institutional purposes. (2) Sheep, including the fat-lamb trade, wool, and the sale of breeding ewes, and meat for rations. (3) Cattle for disposal to the beef market and for ration purposes. (4) Cropping, including wheat, oats, barley, potatoes, and small seed. (5) An orchard producing apples, pears, peaches, plums, and small fruits, and equipped with an up-to-date sorting and packing plant. (6) An apiary of some one hundred hives. (7) Tobacco-growing for institutional needs. For that considerable proportion of inmates who have some knowledge of or bent for primary production the Department's farms, conducted as they are on efficient management lines, give an opportunity to further the individual's knowledge of this essential industry and helps considerably in his adaptability on discharge.

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GENERAL The main object of the Department is to effect the rehabilitation of prisoners through a carefully devised individualized programme of treatment and training so that the prisoner will emerge better fitted and strengthened in resolution to be a law-abiding and self-reliant member of the community. To this end, in addition to the planning of a diversified range of constructive activities, all offenders are classified into groups according to their age, disposition, and character so that they may be dealt with more according to their individual needs. Generally the scheme of classification is as follows : The younger group of offenders (fifteen to twenty years) are sent to the Invercargill Borstal, where the range of correctional and instructional activities is the widest; the group between the ages of twenty-one and twenty-five are sent to the Waikeria Borstal Institution, where a slightly narrower range of activities more adapted to the higher age of the inmates is provided : the more trustworthy and amendable offenders are sent to the prison farms and camps, which are largely " open " prisons; the sexually depraved are segregated at New Plymouth. The medical officer of this institution is a psychiatrist who has made a special study of homo-sexuality, and the general routine of this institution is so arranged as to assist the inmates in resolving their behaviour problems ; the aged and infirm prisoners are segregated at the Wanganui Prison, where incarceration, except for security precautions, virtually amounts to hospitalization; the refractory and less trustworthy prisoners are detained at Mount Eden, which is the " maximum security " prison of the Dominion. STAFF The general staffing problem numerically has eased slightly, and several institutions i are now up to full complement, but there is still a very great difficulty in arranging duty >rosters that conform to the recently inaugurated forty-hour five-day week. At Mount Eden extra amenities in the shape of staff quarters and staff tea-rooms have been provided. The general salary scale for prison staff has been made more attractive. Overtime rates have been liberalized and penal rates for week-end duty have been Extra leave privileges are now under consideration. The staff, with few exceptions, have co-operated loyally throughout the year under strain at times and under conditions that by their nature are difficult, and I desire to place on record my appreciation of their help. Amongst certain sections of society there is a prejudice against law-enforcement officers, but they can have satisfaction in "plowing that theirs is one of the most constructive public services. During the year two senior officers retired —Miss B. E. Trevor, Superintendent of the Women's Borstal Institution at Arohata, to get married, and Mr. A. St. P. Jordan, Superintendent of the Wi Tako Prison, on superannuation. Miss Trevor was replaced by the appointment of Miss D. Fairweather, House Matron at the Invercargill Borstal Institution, and Mr. Jordan by the appointment of Mr. R. C. Haywood, Farm Manager at Arohata. CONCLUSION I desire to place on record the Department's appreciation of the work of the Visiting Justices, the Official Visitors, and also of the various ministers of religion, officers of the Salvation Army, the several voluntary welfare organizations, and many other publicspirited individuals who have kindly assisted in ministering to those placed in the Department's care. After-care work is an important integral part of the correctional plan, and in this connection I desire especially to thank the Women's Borstal Association, the various Prisoners' Aid Societies, and the Probation Officers. B. L. Dallard, Controller-General of Prisons,

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PRISONS AND BORSTAL INSTITUTIONS: EPITOME OF REPORTS OF CONTROLLING OFFICERS Adding ton Reformatory Prison (Women) (Superintendent: Miss F. E. Mason) At the commencement of the year there were 4 inmates in custody. During the year 31 were received, 9 released on expiration, 3 on licence, 8 handed to the police, 1 transferred to the mental hospital, and 1 acquited after trial, leaving a total of 13 inmates held in custody on 31st December, 1947. The general health of the inmates has been good. Nine attended the clinic at the public hospital for treatment of venereal disease and 5 have been discharged. All other ailments have been of a minor nature, such as colds and cases of alcoholism. Prompt and efficient attention has always been supplied by the medical officer. Owing to the acute shortage of staff and, at times, the small number of inmates in custody, very little laundry work has been accomplished. Sewing, cooking, gardening, and domestic work has kept every one in constant employment. All the sewing for the institution is done in the workroom and is a favourite occupation with most of the girls. New Sunday frocks have been made from floral material of various shades. This I find has helped to give every one more pride in their personal attire and also presents a more pleasing appearance. Cooking is always popular, and a, very keen interest is displayed in the serving of the meals. Domestic work does not appeal to the majority of the girls committed to these places, very few being able to adapt themselves to the routine of cleaning, and more supervision is necessary to keep the institution to the required standard. A good supply of vegetables has been maintained throughout the year from our own garden. More interest is taken in this out-door work by the Maoris than by our own race. The general behaviour of the inmates has been satisfactory, only two breaches of the regulations have been dealt with by the Visiting Justice. Recreation hours in the winter are generally spent in knitting, sewing, or embroidery work. The girls are encouraged to cut out and make up garments for themselves, and quite a number have added some attractive articles to their own wardrobe as a result •of this occupation. In the summer-time the evenings are spent out in the open, and many attend to the care of their flower-gardens at this time. We have a well-filled library, and in addition to this, the Country Library Service has provided a very good selection. Excellent concert parties have been organized by Miss Nicholls and Miss Stevens and members of the Women's Christian Temperence Union. The Salvation Army and the W.C.T.U. provided Christmas and New Year parties, and we are indebted to many friends for donations and gifts towards the Christmas and Tecreation fund and for magazines and books during the year. Religious services are held every Sunday morning, and individual visits are made at regular intervals during the week by representatives of the various denominations. In conclusion, I desire to record my sincere appreciation of the loyalty and assistance rendered by the clerical officer and the staff during the year. Auckland Prison (Superintendent: Mr. J. J. H. Lauder) At the commencement of the year there were 236 males and 11 females in custody. During the year 1,269 males and 51 females were received, and 1,168 males and 50 females were discharged. The conduct generally of the prisoners has been good.

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There were 3 escapes during the year. One prisoner who was a patient at the Auckland Public Hospital made good his escape; he was later recaptured at Spirits Bay, North Auckland, and returned to prison. The other 2 escaped from the train while being escorted from Paparua to Auckland Prison. One was recaptured the following day and the other was returned, to prison on Ist July, 1947. The health of the prisoners generally has been very good ; there has not been any general epidemics. There were 2 deaths during the year. One prisoner was employed on the quarry-face, when he slipped and met with an accident; he was admitted to the Auckland Public Hospital, and died the same day. The other was an old man of seventy, held on remand. The daily average sick has been 6*83 males and o*3l females. In the cases of male and female sickness there is a small increase over last year. There were 13 males and 2 females admitted to the Auckland Public Hospital during the year. Of the male admissions to hospital, 2 received treatment for the swallowing of foreign bodies. Other admissions were —1 T.B. of spine; 1 osteo-arthritis, left hip; 1 rheumatic fever; 1 weakness following hunger striking ; 1 D.T's ; 1 chronic otitis media, left ear ; 1 abcess, right ischio-rectal area; 1 acute lobar pneumonia; 1 multiple injuries; 1 perforated duodenal ulcer. Of the female prisoners removed to hospital 1 suffered from T. 8., right wrist, and 1 required currette treatment. Of the above admissions, 1 male still remains in the public hospital and no females. During the year 8 males and 5 females were admitted to prison with gonorrhoea and 4 males with syphilis, and this again shows a marked decline in the case of males and a slight increase in the case of females of this social disease. There were 6 males transferred to the mental hospital, 1 being transferred back to prison after a lapse of four and a half months. I wish to commend the mental hospital medical staff for the very valuable assistance given by making examinations during the year for the information of the Courts and as a guide to the institutional treatment. They have always been very willing to assist. I am pleased to state that the prison quarry has again been working since August last, with much satisfaction both to inmates and the Department. This factor has kept the prisoners more settled in themselves. The boot-factory continues to work at full capacity manufacturing prison and mental-hospital footwear and leather satchels for the Post and Telegraph Department. In addition, a large number of repairs have been carried out for the Prison, Mental Hospital, and Education Departments, as well as satchels, &c., for the Post and Telegraph Department, despite the fact that material has been very difficult to purchase. The Tailoring Department has maintained its usual output, embracing the manufacture of large quantities of mental-hospital clothing, as well as requirements for our prison institutions. For other Government Departments 750 office chair cushions were made, and 2,313 pairs of socks were manufactured, also 380 pairs refooted. In the repair branch of the shop 19,930 mail and parcel bags were dealt with. Tinsmithing has also been carried on supplying other prison institutions with their requirements. In the carpenter's shop a number of cabinets for the Registrar's Department were manufactured, while maintenance work for the local Courts has been carried out, and renovations to this institution have been attended to. During the year a single-officers' mess-room has been erected and fitted out electrically, and the officers who live in quarters are supplied with meals ; also the officers who bring their lunch are catered for. A single-officer's cottage has also been erected, and the furniture and fittings have been manufactured in the shop. One married-officer's cottage is well on the way to completion, and we hope to have another six commenced at an early date, subject to an early supply of material.

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The laundering section has laundered a large number of blankets for the Army and Air Force Departments, and 4,818 bars of soap were manufactured for laundry and institutional work. Owing to the difficulty in obtaining fat, &c., the usual quantity of soap has not been manufactured. The manufacture of tobacco has been satisfactory, and all institutional requirements have been supplied by the date required. A large portion of the leaf used was grown at Waikeria Borstal Institution. The cultivation of the prison garden has resulted in the production of a large amount of vegetables used in this institution. The food supplied to the inmates of this institution has been of excellent quality, the meat and milk being purchased locally. All bread consumed has been made in the prison bakehouse and would compare favourably with any baked outside. The institutional school has been continued during the year under the direction of Dr. Dale, M.A., with the assistance of Mr. Warner, Assistant Probation Officer, and Mr. Carson, of the prison staff. Dr. Dale's report is as follows : During the year the roll numbers have been relatively stable and in keeping with the percentage of inmates noted in my previous reports. The attendance has been satisfactory, and the majority of the men have worked conscientiously during the year. No new techniques have been introduced this year largely because the needs have not called for these. As the students are dominantly Maoris it has been the aim of the school to assist these men to adjust themselves as far as possible to meet their own expressed needs. Many are working at their own rates and at their own level, and are given help as the need arises. Such a plan, it is hoped, will foster more independence. It has been found necessary to give more prominence to English, both form and content, than in former years; simple business arithmetic, too, has been taken more than in former years. Work at a low standard has been taken with Polynesian men who have worked in a very creditable fashion, and should have gained much by the time their sentences are completed. Real effort has been made by some men serving long sentences, and their general education has shown immense gains. The majority have definite plans for their rehabilitation on release and are working to achieve a sound end. In general, it may be noted that the spirit of co-operation is very evident and the school is doing all it can to assist the men in their need. Apart from mere schooling, it is felt that the school should attempt to give those who attend some insight into the problems of living and by individual discussion offer some sohitions to the men. Many of them might be termed " under-privileged " in that they have become involved in family problems, work problems, education problems, and relationship problems without the opportunity of finding a solution and often without the chance of talking things over with some one they can speak freely to. By private discussion during this time it has been possible to do a little toward solving the difficulties which so many feel beset by and sometimes strengthening resolves to keep within the law. Many are most co-operative in this respect, and the school can count with some small pride its influence on the lives of some of its pupils. On the other hand, it must be admitted that no solution of the problems noted in my annual report, 1946, have as yet been discovered. In concluding this report I should like to pay a warm tribute to the work of the Assistant Schoolmaster, Mr. Warner. He has given excellent service during the year. Much co-operation has been given by the Superintendent, Mr. Lauder, who has consistently shown his concern for the well-being of the school. Messrs. Watters and MacKenzie, Chief Warders, have been most helpful and always willing to assist when called upon. The physical-drill class is carried on for the benefit of the younger prisoners under the direction of a member of the staff. Christmas cheer was supplied by various social organizations, and was greatly appreciated by all prisoners. The spiritual welfare of the prisoners have been looked after by the various denominations by holding Sunday services, and by personal contact. The conduct of the staff generally has been satisfactory, and a satisfactory standard of discipline has been maintained under trying conditions. In the industrial activities the officers responsible have maintained a very satisfactory standard of industry. The clerical and stores staff have dealt with their phase of institutional matters quite efficiently.

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Hautu Prison (Acting Officer in Charge, Mr. G. Brew) At the beginning of the year there were 37 men in custody. During the year 65 were received, 33 discharged, and 28 transferred to other institutions, leaving 41 men in custody at the end of the period. Three men were admitted to Taumarunui Public Hospital and 3 to Raetihi Public Hospital for operations and the treatment of diseases contracted on active service overseas. The health of the remainder of the men was good. The medical officer, Dr. L. E. Jordan, visited the prison regularly, and men requiring dental treatment were attended to by Mr. R. B. Davies, Raetihi, at his surgery. Divine services were held by Rev. Father Van Beck, Mr. Mountjoy, Taupo, and Mr. H. L. Forlong, of Piriaka. We are again grateful to the Christchurch branch of the Howard League for the Christmas cake, and the congregation of the Taupo Presbyterian Church for gifts to the men at Christmas. The Church of Christ (Scientist) supplied reading-matter regularly during the year. There was a plentiful supply of green and root vegetables throughout the year. The food supplied to the men was of good quality. All bread was baked in the prison bakery, and meat for rations was killed on the prison farm. Dairying was a success during the year, and arrangements are being made to extend the industry. The cream was sold to the Kaitieke Co-operative Dairy Co., Ltd., and the skim-milk fed to pigs. The sheep-raising industry was again successful. All the black-faced lambs were sold, also the Romney wether lambs. The Romney ewe lambs were retained in the flock. The wool clip totalled 52 bales. The hay and swede crops were good, and there was an abundance of feed for the live-stock during the year. In conclusion, I wish to thank the officers for their co-operation and loyalty. Napier Prison (Superintendent: Mr. A. A. Douglas) At the beginning of the year there were 17 males in custody ; during the year admissions totalled 185 males and 4 females, leaving in custody at the end of the year 20 males. The health of the prisoners on the whole has been very satisfactory, 1 prisoner on two occasions being admitted to the Napier Public Hospital suffering from acute dermatitis. Extensive repairs and maintenance work has been carried out on the two departmental cottages. A new stone wall has been erected in the front of the Superintendent's house, the old wooden wall having collapsed. The renovation of the prison has been commenced. Divine services were conducted by the following denominations during the year: Gospel Hall, Church of England, Methodist, Presbyterian, Baptist, Congregational, Roman Catholic, Maori service, Salvation Army and band. All services have been well attended. Radio entertainment daily has been provided, and prisoners listen in to sessions of news, sporting events, and variety programmes nightly, and Church broadcasts on Sunday. Concert parties visited the prison on six occasions, and pictures were screened on seven occasions. The thanks of the Department is due to the Rev. Dyason, organizer of the concert parties, and to Mr. Oscar Brock and Mr. Simmons, responsible for the picture-screening.

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There were no escapes during the year. The output from the garden has been poor, due to the unfavourable season. The poppy crop failed, and all the early crops were ruined by the easterly gales. The carnation crop should show a good return, 2,000 florist pink plants are coining to maturity. There has been a plentiful supply of all varieties of vegetables for issue to the prisoners. The output from the prison quarry has been maintained. The conduct of prisoners on the whole has been good, there being three minor offences dealt with by the Visiting Justice during the year. The thanks of the Department have been conveyed to J. Miller, Esq., S.M., the Napier Brotherhood, the St. Vincent de Paul Society, F. Selby, and Mrs. Wrighley for their donations and gifts for additional comforts during the festive season. I desire to thank the staff for their loyal co-operation during the year. New Plymouth Prison (Superintendent: Mr. J. Dow) There were 46 male prisoners in custody at the beginning of the year. During the year 110 males and 1 female were received, whilst 109 males and 1 female were discharged or otherwise disposed of, leaving 47 males in custody at the end of the year. The admissions are 12 less than in 1946. During the year 3 male prisoners were transferred to a mental hospital, 1 being returned to prison after a period in that institution. There were no escapes, and the conduct of the prisoners generally has been good. The health of the prisoners has been good. There were 4 males admitted to public hospital during the year for minor operations and observation. The men have all been fully occupied in the various activities during the year. The garden continues to be the main industry, and this is where most of the men are employed. As in the past, the growing of vegetable plants for sale has been a great success. Fresh vegetables are grown all the year round for institutional use, and the surplus is disposed of in the open market, to the public hospital, and the New Plymouth High School. The potato crop met our requirements for several months. The pig industry continues to be a success, and there is a keen local demand for all we have to offer. The quarry industry has been reduced to a small scale due to the fact that the quarry has nearly been worked out. The purchase of cows for rations has been continued satisfactorily through the Farmers' Co-operative Association. Killing is done by prison labour on the premises. All meat is inspected by the Meat Inspector before being used. Social activities have been continued. A class on first aid and home nursing was conducted by the Red Cross Society during the year, and in the examinations held there were no failures. I would like to express my thanks and appreciation to the doctors and lecturers who were instrumental in making the class such a success. The local residents continue to be interested in the welfare of the men,. and the concerts, &c., here were very much appreciated. In addition to the social activities, a drill class is held on two nights each week. A bequest from the Gordon Bequest Fund was received and utilized in providing Christmas cheer. Extra Christmas cheer was provided by several local residents and organizations, and was highly appreciated by the men. Mr. Woodward, S.M., and Messrs. Weston and Nicol, Visiting Justices, paid periodical visits to the prison during the year in their official capacity, and they have taken a great interest in the welfare of the men. The spiritual welfare of the men has been attended to by the ministers of the various religious denominations and other religious workers. The staff have again carried out their duties faithfully and well.

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Paparua Prison (Superintendent: Mr. C. E. Harrington) On the Ist January, 1947, there were in custody 132 male prisoners ; during the year the receptions totalled 529, while 532 were discharged or otherwise disposed of, thus leaving a total of 129 prisoners in custody as at the 31st December, 1947. The greatest number in custody at any one time during the year was 153, the least 77, and the daily average during the year 110*21. Generally the health of the prisoners has been very good, sickness in most cases being confined to colds and minor complaints, and there was a complete absence of any form of epidemic illness throughout the year. Eight inmates were admitted to the public hospital during the year, and four inmates were given treatment at the prison for venereal disease. Three prisoners were transferred to the Christchurch Mental Hospital. In late years increased use has been made of the facilities for mental examination of prisoners, and in this regard I wish to express my appreciation of the co-operation that has been forthcoming from mental specialists and which has been of considerable assistance in arranging special treatment as may be necessary in any particular case. The prison medical officer made regular visits throughout the year, and over that period the important matters of cleanliness and sanitation was not lost sight of. The conduct of the prisoners has been very good. Breaches of the regulations numbered 31, in which 23 prisoners were concerned, 14 being dealt with by Visiting Justices and 9by myself. There were no escapes or attempted escapes during the year. The food-supplies have been of excellent quality. Potatoes and vegetables were drawn from the prison farm and the garden. Beef for ration purposes was obtained from cattle killed on the property, and this was supplemented by weekly supplies of mutton obtained under a contract. Bread of excellent quality was manufactured in the prison bakery. Entertainment for the prisoners was provided on thirteen occasions during the past year, and I am indebted to the various organizations concerned for the increased interest that has been shown in this regard. The Workers' Educational Association again came to our assistance and provided a series of fourteen lectures during the winter months. The fact that this service is appreciated by the majority of the inmates is indicated by the excellent attendance over the period of the lectures. The prisoners were excellently catered for during the festive season, and those organizations and individuals who for years have taken a special interest in this work again gave their help which is much appreciated. The institution school was carried on under the direction of Mr. A. W. Kibblewhite. General repair work has been carried out to the staff residences, and considerable maintenance work was also attended to at the Addington Reformatory. The roof of the east wing was retiled, and during the coming year attention will be given to the inside roof of this building. Work in connection with the erection of a new blacksmith and carpentry shop has now been put in hand, the foundations being excavated in readiness for the arrival of reinforcing and cement supplies, when the job will be proceeded with. The industries of the institution have been fully maintained, and has absorbed all the available labour after making provision for the necessary domestic services of the institution. With a few exceptions all the prisoners have been engaged on work of a varying nature, and in this connection consideration is always given to the personal capability of each individual as far as possible. The quarrying industry has been kept working to full capacity, and with the present active demand for all grades of crushed metal and shingle we have had no difficulty in the disposal of quarry products. Sales for the year amounted to 32,594 cubic yards, which is an appreciable advance on the figure of 26,845 cubic yards sold in the previous

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year. Considering the fact that the quarry plant is rapidly reaching the obsolete stage, the returns in the circumstances are most satisfactory. The erection of the proposed new plant has unfortunately been held up, but it is hoped that a start will be made in the coming year. The mechanical loader has handled most of the sales output, and this machine has proved a great boon. In the blockmaking industry some progress has been made as supplies of cement have become available. We are still receiving inquiries for concrete posts, but a good proportion of this business has had to be turned away owing to the cement problem. In the garden industry many varieties of vegetables have been grown, but, owing to unsuitable weather conditions mainly in regard to rainfall, the ultimate results have fallen far short of those of previous years, and, with the exception of a small portion of the produce which was sent to the market, the whole of the garden production has had to be utilized for ration purposes at the institution, and it is obvious that this state of affairs will exist until well into the coming year. The poultry industry has been carried on successfully, and 7,600 dozen eggs were produced in 1947. The chick-hatchings turned out very well, and the young male birds were sold in the local market at satisfactory rates. There is now a good stock of birds established and which should give good returns in following seasons. The food supplies for the poultry have been adequate, although a return to a full ration with pollard would be a decided advantage. The farming section, under the direction of Mr. H. J. S. Wilson, was carried on successfully, despite the abnormally dry spell which had an effect on returns in the cropping section. The hay harvest was fortunately a very good one, and this will be a great help in carrying the stock through the summer, as hand feeding will be necessary. Satisfactory results were obtained in the sheep section, although the lambing percentage was not as good as was expected. A line of 1,084 wethers purchased early in the year for fattening and resale turned out very well, and some ver} T good prices were obtained at the Addington sales. The high prices ruling at the wool sales ensured a satisfactory return, and the main clip averaged £56 per bale. The total wool realization was £2,450 for the season. Conditions for lamb-fattening were not the best, and average weights were down a little as compared with previous seasons. A small herd of cows ensured an adequate supply of milk for use at the institution, with a small surplus of cream, which was sent to a local factory. The pig industry was carried on in a small way, and some good prices were obtained for baconers. The timber plantation established in the last few years is coming along very well, although a good deal of replacements will be required in the section recently planted out. The staff at this institution has carried out its duties in a commendable manner throughout the past year, and we have been particularly fortunate in that the strength has been maintained at almost full numbers throughout most of the year. This has gone a long way in ensuring that the activities of the institution are carried out smoothly and efficiently. Rangipo Prison (Officer in Charge : Mr. A. Banks) At the commencement of the year there were 38 males in custody. During the year 53 were received, whilst 34 were discharged, and 14 were transferred, leaving 43 prisoners in custody at the end of the year. As in former years, the health of the prisoners has been good, except for a few minor cases. Doctor L. E. Jordan, of Ohakune, attended as medical officer. The dental work of the prison was carried out by Mr. R. B. Davies, of Raetihi, and extractions, fillings, and dentures have been provided as required.

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Religious services were conducted at the prison by Mr. K. A. Mountjoy, Messrs. H. L. and H. G. Furlong, Mr. A. R. Matieson, Mr. D. E. Houghton, Mr. W. J. Bull, Mr. R. 0. Symons, Mr. A. Trail, Mr. R. D. Williams, the Rev. Mr. Smith, and Sister Edith. We are indebted to the Church of Christ (Scientist), Wellington, for generous donations of reading-material. Christmas cheer of ample proportions was donated by the Taupo Presbyterian Church, and a donation of Christmas cake was received from the Christchurch Branch of the Howard League for Penal Reform, and our thanks are due to the donors. The food-supplies have been of excellent quality, all vegetables being supplied from the prison garden. Beef and mutton for rations were killed on the farm. The rabbit pest is at a minimum owing to extensive trapping and poisoning. A substantial credit resulted from the sale of skins. Thirty-nine bales of wool resulted from shearing. Wether lambs were disposed of to the works and saleyards, and good-type ewe lambs retained for our breeding flock. The following crops were grown : 35 acres of swedes and 35 acres of soft turnips, resulting in a reasonable crop, being used as winter feed. Farm activities carried out during the year were eradication of weeds, draining of swamps, and maintenance of cultivated area by clearing of second growth. The staff have carried out their duties loyally during the year. I sincerely thank them. Waikune Prison (Roadmaking Camp), Erua (Officer in Charge : Mr. J. G. Quill) At the commencement of the year there were in custody 70 prisoners, and 101 were received during the year. The discharges were 3on expiration of sentences, 19 on special remissions; and 51 on probationary licences. Altogether 31 prisoners were transferred to other institutions, leaving 67 prisoners in custody at the end of the year. The greatest number of prisoners in detention at any one time was 84, the least 64, the daily average being 72-52. Five prisoners escaped from Waikune during the year, 2 of them being at liberty for a few hours only. The other 3 men did not evade recapture for very long. Three prisoners in transit to the Rangipo and Hautu Prisons escaped shortly after detraining at National Park, but they were eventually recaptured. The general health of the prisoners has been very good. There were two admissions to hospital. One man was injured at work and had to be removed to hospital for operative treatment, while the other prisoner was treated for a septic finger. The medical officer, Dr. L. E. Jordan, was in constant attendance at the prison throughout the year, and displayed an extremely conscientious regard for the health and general well-being of the prisoners. Those prisoners requiring dental treatment were conveyed to the surgery of the dentist, Mr. R. B. Davies, Raetihi. Religious services were conducted at the institution at regular intervals by the following: Rev. Fathers Garrahy and Walsh (Catholic) and Messrs. H. L. and H. G. Forlong (Plymouth Brethren). Once more we record our deep appreciation of the very fine Christmas cake provided for the prisoners at Waikune by the Christchurch Branch of the Howard League for Penal Reform. Our thanks are due to Mr. Lacey, senior, of Retaruke, for his very generous gift of a number of very fine books for the prison library.

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Towards the end of the year the Department replaced our radio set with a very modern seven-valve instrument. This machine has two speakers, which enables it to be listened to in the common room and in the yard simultaneously. Its range is such that it may be heard by the prisoners in their huts after lock-up has taken place. As in former years, we supplied fresh vegetables for rations from the prison garden, and frem time to time the supplies were augmented by all types of vegetables given to us by Mr. Chong Lee from his Horopito gardens. A plentiful supply of greens has been available throughout the year. Beef for rations was provided from cattle purchased locally. The beasts were killed in a slaughterhouse which was erected at the prison. It has been found that local killings has enabled us to overcome the difficulty of transporting meat from Rangipo in the hot weather. At Christmas time the prisoners organized several sports fixtures and concerts. A good deal of talent was to be found in these gatherings, and it could be said that most of the men showed a healthy appetite for this form of relaxation. This year saw most of the farm in grass—in fact, only one small paddock was utilized for turnips. The pastures look very healthy, and it is anticipated that this year's harvest will be a record. During the year we discontinued with the supply of milk to local residents, &c., and sent our cream to the Kaitieke Dairy Co., Piriaka. On the whole, the herd achieved very good results. During the year we continued our chief activity of roadwork maintenance and quarry work. Three quarries at Makatote, Whakapapaiti, and Whakapapanui operated during the year, and metal was delivered to the National Park-Taupo State Highway, the Waimarino-Ohakune State Highway, the Spiral Overhead Bridge - Oio State Highway, and the Bruce Road. Metal was also sold to many local residents, sawmillers, and contractors. The two local Councils were also provided with metal from our quarries. The motor fleet carried out a fairly heavy programme of transport during the year. All cartage for Hautu and Rangipo Prisons was undertaken by this institution. The Chateau called on us to do most of their cartage work, while our trucks did much work for local contractors and sawmillers in the district. In conclusion, I desire to thank the staff for their loyal co-operation. "Wanganui Prison (Gaoler: Mr. A. Gamble) At the commencement of the year there were 14 males in custody. During the year 69 males were received into custody, 64 males have been discharged, and 1 male inmate (aged) died in the Wanganui Public Hospital, leaving at the end of the year a total of 19 males in custody. The average daily number in custody during the year being 13-25. Generally, the health of the prisoners has been good considering the age and class of prisoners detained in this prison, many of whom on admission are suffering from disabilities of some kind. During the year 1 inmate was admitted to the Wanganui Public Hospital, where he died. He had been suffering from an inward complaint for some years prior to being admitted to this institution. The main employment of the inmates is the growing of vegetables, and a plentiful supply has been maintained for the institution throughout the year. Any surplus has been sold at the auction mart. The elderly and more feeble inmates are employed inside the prison, mending prison clothing, and cleaning. This class of work being more suitable to their physical state, also permits them to have open-air exercise in the yards. The painting and renovating of the prison is in progress, which is being done by prison labour.

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The medical officer, Dr. A. M. Earle, visits the prison once a week, and is always on call when the occasion arises. The conduct of the prisoners has been good, there being no offences during the year. Thanks are due to the various religious denominations who conduct divine services throughput the year. On Christmas Day a party from the Church of Christ entertained the inmates with a musical programme, concluding with a Christmas treat by way of fruit, sweets, cakes, and sandwiches, which was very much appreciated by the inmates. The St. Vincent de Paul Society provided the inmates with a gift of cigarettes and pipe tobacco, also Aramoho branch with cakes and sweets. Mr. W. J. Rogers, Visiting Justice, also made a donation of cakes, sweets, and cigarettes to be distributed on New Year's day. Our thanks are due to Mr. Rogers for securing and installing free of expense a very fine radio set with loud-speaker and set of earphones, which is very much appreciated by the inmates. In conclusion, I desire to thank the staff for their co-operation. Wellington Prison (Superintendent: Mr. P. McGrath) At the commencement of the year there were 97 males in custody. During the year 1,022 males were received, whilst 1,029 were discharged or otherwise disposed of, leaving in prison on the night of 31st December, 1947, 90 males. The discharges were as follows: on expiration of sentence, hard labour, or simple imprisonment, 353 : reformative detention, nil; Borstal detention, nil; died, 1 ; absconded and not retaken, 1 ; on special remission, hard labour, 51; reformative detention, nil; released on the recommendation of the Prisons and Parole Board, hard labour, 16 ; reformative detention, 6 ; habitual criminals, 1; debtors, 14 ; transferred to mental hospital, 3; acquitted and after remand, 15 ; transferred to another prison or to the police, 526 ; released on bail, probation, &c., 42. Of the 13 males admitted to the Wellington Public Hospital during the year the majority were inmates requiring hospital treatment immediately after admission into custody. The prison medical officer, Dr. Douglas Brown, has again been most attentive in his care of prisoners. The greatest number of cases of sickness at any one time during the year was 6. Six cases of venereal disease were received during the period, all being gonorrhoea. Dental work has been carried out by Mr. W. P. Sommerville, J.P., and extractions, fillings, and dentures have been provided as required. Psychiatrists from the Mental Hospitals Department have again given valuable assistance during the year, examining inmates for the Courts and as a guide for treatment. The dietary scale has been maintained at high standard. Daily supplies of fresh vegetables from the prison garden and butter and milk from the dairy have been received. The manufacture of white and wholemeal bread for rations to the institution and the Arohata Borstal Institution continues to maintain a high standard of quality. During the year there were 9 breaches of the regulations, 1 being dealt with by a Visiting Justice, and the balance, a small number of minor offences requiring disciplinary correction, were dealt with by myself. The pig-raising industry, considering the smaller number of pigs raised to baconers on account of the small quantity of swill now available for fodder, has been quite satisfactory. The dairy herd has kept in excellent condition, and production been well maintained. Milk supplied as rations to institution and sold to local staff has been of good quality. Butter surplus to requirements for rations has been sold during the year on the local market. A good crop of hay has again been harvested this season.

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The prison vegetable garden, which provides light work for men not fit for heavier forms of labour, has been fully cultivated, and produced, with the exception of potatoes, all our vegetable requirements. The prison laundry continues to deal with all of the institutional requirements, together with towels, &c., for the Prime Minister's Department. In the boot-shop all the institutional repairs have been effected, also repairs to boots, shoes, &c., for Arohata Borstal Institution. One officer and fourteen men have been regularly employed at Arohata Borstal Farm during the year on general farm work, &c. Maintenance and repairs as required have been effected during the year to institutional buildings and cottages, &c. Office furniture has been manufactured, renovated, &c., for the various branches of the Justice Department. Since my last report a branch of the Country Library Service has been commenced and the books are selected by the inmates, and the system is working very satisfactorily. There is still a demand for books from the prison library. Sound-films were exhibited at regular intervals by the Department. Christmas cheer was again provided by various social organizations, including the Tory Street Mission, the Wellington City Mission, Wellington Branch of the Howard League, who again sent gifts of fruit, Friend to Sailors' Mission. Gifts of tobacco were also received from the ControllerGeneral of Prisons. Since my last report on the prison nursery, when the buildings were in a bad state of repair, the heavy storm in February last caused the destruction of the glasshouse. A new and modern glasshouse has now been erected complete with steam and electric heating, and a record production is expected. During the year 6,200 plants were sent out on behalf of the Wellington Beautifying Society for distribution. The administration block at the old Borstal buildings at Point Halswell has been converted into two flats and occupied by members of the staff, It is proposed to erect one further flat at a later date. Throughout the year Church services have been held regularly each week, and to the ministers of the Anglican, Presbyterian, and other branches of the Protestant Churches, Father Uhlenberg and the members of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, and officers of the Salvation Army, who have visited us at various times, we are deeply indebted. In conclusion, I have to thank the staff for their co-operation. The staff is still below strength, and a heavy strain has been imposed on them at times. Their conduct has been excellent, and the prison routine has been carried out in a satisfactory manner. Wi Tako Pbison, Here taxing a (Superintendent: Mr. R. C. Haywood) There were 34 prisoners confined at this prison at the beginning of the year. During the year, 246 were received and 222 were discharged, leaving a total of 58 in prison on the night of the 31st December, 1947. There were 5 prisoners admitted to hospital during the year. Apart from these, the health of the prisoners was quite good, and any illness there was amongst the men was treated by the prison medical officer. The conduct of the prisoners during the year was reasonably good. There were 25 men punished for prison offences, 5 of whom were dealt with by a Visiting Justice, and the remainder by the Superintendent. During the year 3 prisoners escaped. The first was retaken two hours after his escape, the second the next day, and the third, who was working at the Arohata Borstal where he was employed painting, and from where he escaped, has not yet been apprehended.

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A very enjoyable day was spent on New Year's Day, when all the prisoners were taken to the Trentham Camp recreation ground for a day's cricket. Sweets and drinks were supplied by the Y.M.C.A. in the camp. During the year motion pictures were screened by the departmental projectionist, and twice by Mr. Curl, of the Tory Street Mission, Wellington. The Optimists Club paid a visit to the Prison during the year and gave a splendid night's entertainment, in the form of a concert and a community sing. The Heretaunga Boxing Club and the Valley Physical Culture and Wrestling Club visited the prison and gave an excellent display of physical-culture exercises, weight-lifting, boxing, and wrestling. As usual, ministers of various denominations and laymen visited the prison and conducted services. On the whole, the food-supplies have been of a very good quality, with a plentiful supply of fresh vegetables from the prison garden. All bread requirements were produced at the prison bakehouse, which was of an excellent quality. The mutton and beef required for rations was killed at the prison slaughterhouse. In addition to the parcels received by the inmates at Christmas, gifts of fruit and cake were donated by the Upper Hutt Mission and the Howard League, Wellington. The gifts were greatly appreciated, and helped to vary the diet during the Christmas period. Apart from minor repairs and painting, the prison is in reasonable repair. Paint is on order for this job, and it is hoped to be in a position to carry out this work early in the New Year. An old building that was being used as a carpenter's shop and bootrepairing shop was destroyed by fire during August. A new boot-repairing shop has been erected, and a building which was used for a bag-store has been turned into a good carpenter's shop. This replaces the building that was destroyed. Owing to the rifle ranges and a large portion of the farm being subject to Army activities throughout the years of war, and the uncertainty of the property being taken over by the Housing Department, the maintenance of the farm on the whole has suffered to a large extent. Buildings, fences, and ditches require immediate attention. It will take considerable time and labour to bring the property up to full carrying-capacity as a big percentage of the pastures have run out and are overgrown with rushes. Some of this work, however, is already under way. It is hoped that in the future the brick-kiln will be demolished and all the area cleaned up. A very good return was made from the dairy during 1947. Milk to the value of £2,115 Is. 3d. was supplied to the Wellington City milk-supply, and sales to the staff amounted to £ll5 18s. sd. Transfers of milk to the calves amounted to £5l Is. 3d., and to the kitchens for rations, £63 Is. 3d. At the beginning of the year some rams were sold at a local sale, and were replaced by younger animals. During the year 143 lambs were sold for the sum of £212, and 238 sheep were killed for rations. The rearing of pigs for sale as baconers has been very successful during the last twelve months. The actual cash received during 1947 for baconers sold was £1,624. Plans are being made whereby it is proposed to make improvements in the existing piggery. A new area of ground in the vicinity of the piggery has been cultivated for a garden, and the old garden is being sown out in permanent pasture. A further area of 5 acres, also near the piggery, has also been made into a garden, and the vegetables from this area are for sale to the Army at Trentham. As usual the prison kitchen was supplied with vegetables from the prison garden. Two sheds have been erected on the garden site for the purpose of a shelter, tool-shed, and store. The total strength of the staff at the end of the year was 17, including the Superintendent. The retirement of Superintendent A. P. Jordan took place during the year. In conclusion, I should like to record my thanks and appreciation to the staff for their co-operation and loyalty.

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Arohata Borstal Institution (Superintendent: Miss D. Fairweather) On Ist January, 1947, 19 inmates were in custody in the institution. During the year 26 were received and 27 discharged or otherwise dealt with, thus leaving 18 in custody on 31st December, 1947. Of the 27 discharged, 16 were released on licence, 2 released under section 16, 8 transferred to other institutions, and 1 transferred to a mental hospital. Of the 8 transferred to other instituions, 6 had previously served sentences in the institution, and, as far as age and influence were concerned, they were considered quite unsuitable for Borstal training. In the reformatory section there were no inmates at the beginning of the year, but 22 were received during the twelve months, and the same number discharged—4 on the expiration of sentence, 4 debtors, 13 transferred to other institutions or handed to the police, and 1 transferred to a mental hospital. The health of inmates was good, the main cause of minor illness being colds. On admission the majority of girls are lacking in vitality and physical fitness, but with a balanced diet, adequate recreation, constructive work in restful surroundings, the response in mental and physical alertness is noticeable. Three inmates were admitted to public hospital for periods varying from three to twenty days for observation and treatment. There were five admissions to Bethany Maternity Hospital, each case necessitating regular visits to the ante-natal clinic. Five inmates were successfully treated for Y.D. at the institution clinic. All inmates were thoroughly examined on admission by the medical officer, and tests taken by Sister Christian, of the Wellington Hospital, and all necessary treatment promptly carried out. Special attention was given to the condition of inmates' teeth, and, where required, the work of extractions, fillings, and dentures was attended to by the visiting dental surgeon. A study of the case-histories of the inmates received during the year gives an interesting picture of their experience prior to admission. Eleven had already served a period of Borstal detention, 8 had been on probation, while 14 had previous convictions. Several are included more than once in these figures, having been subjected to more than one type of care and correction before admission. Four inmates were transferred from the Girls' Training Centre at Burwood. Eight were committed for theft, 3 for breach of probation, 2 returned to the institution after cancellation of probationary licence, 7 for being idle and disorderly, 1 for leaving a place of isolation without authority, and 1 for housebreaking. The majority come from homes where conditions are far from satisfactory, broken homes and inadequate parental control being the general rule. In addition, most of the inmates have a poor work-history, having changed from job to job and proved ineffective workers. Yery few have had satisfying recreational outlets or interests, or any connection with clubs or organizations designed to take an interest in the welfare of youth. Twelve of the inmates admitted were Maoris, but they fit in very readily to the routine and discipline of the institution. Most of them have drifted from the country to the centres of population where there is no lack of work at good wages, but housing difficulties, little preparation for city life, insecurity, and restlessness all have a tendency to breed delinquency. On the whole, the standard of behaviour was good, very few proving unresponsive to the usual institution programme. There were five escapes involving 10 inmates — 1 inmate making three escapes and 2 others escaping twice. Where the programme is based on the essential system of trust, escapes are to be expected, especially in the early stages after admission, when some find it difficult to settle down after their experience of self-will and unbalanced freedom.

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One of the important functions of the institution is the provision of suitable work for the inmates, with emphasis on the preparation for home life, the teaching of good work habits, and the development of a sense of social fitness. Inmates are given a splendid training in laundry work, sewing, cooking, and the usual domestic duties, and an effort is made to develop the girl's special aptitudes so that on release she may be qualified to take up some employment. In addition to the laundry work of the institution, a, number of contracts were carried out for several Government Departments as well as the Army, but owing to the decreased numbers it was not possible to accept large contract orders. In the sewing-room large orders for dresses and other garments were executed for Porirua Mental Hospital, in addition to the institution requirements and various orders from Government Departments. There is sufficient variety of work to ensure a training that would guarantee employment on release. The kitchens provide a useful source of training for the inmates, few of whom appear to have had much experience in their own homes. All cooking is carried out by the girls under supervision, and emphasis is placed on the training in economy and management, and the planning of balanced and varied meals. To encourage the creative use of leisure-time, training in hand-work and hobbies is an important part of the programme. The knitting, crocheting, tatting, toymaking, and all types of hand-embroidery give a wonderful opportunity for the talent that is only waiting in many cases to be trained and developed. The classes for first aid and physical culture had to be discontinued early in the winter owing to the power restrictions imposed in the evenings. Social activities are important in helping to maintain a cheerful outlook and build up morale, and due emphasis has been placed on the development of music, dancing, and, in the case of the Maori girls, on their own songs and poi dances. Programmes of educational and entertaining pictures have been screened and were much appreciated by the inmates. Concerts have been provided, and our thanks are due to the members of the W.A.A.F. and others who have kindly made the necessary plans for entertainment. Recreation was provided whenever possible, both with outdoor and indoor activities. We are indebted to the National Library Service for a splendid supply of books, which, together with the institution library, provides adequate reading-material for the varied needs of the girls. The institution subscribes to a number of magazines, and many interested friends provide a generous supply of this type of reading-matter, which is greatly appreciated by the girls. Regular services are provided every Sunday by the members of the Ministers* Association, and instruction classes are held weekly by the Anglican Minister, Rev. P. Wiltshire, and by the Catholic Priest, Father J. McGrath. Fortnightly visits were also made by the Catholic Sisters of Mercy. During the year classes for confirmation were arranged, and a baptismal service and a confirmation service conducted by the Bishop of Wellington, assisted by the Rev. P. Wiltshire, were held in the Chapel, when five inmates were confirmed. During the New Year and Easter holidays the inmates were taken on the hills for all-day picnics, this form of outing proving particularly attractive. At Christmas, due to the valued co-operation and help of the Borstal Association, the Borstal Committee, the Howard League for Penal Reform, and other friends, to all of whom our sincere thanks are due, it was possible to arrange for a Christmas tree ladened with gifts, and to provide many welcome additions to the menus. Fortnightly visits were paid by the members of the Women's Borstal Association and monthly visits by the members of the Borstal Committee, and to all these members lor their interest, co-operation, and practical assistance we offer our sincere thanks and appreciation.

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Mrs. Te Tan, Native Welfare Officer, merits our gratitude for her special interest in the Maori girls and her help in arranging supervision in the districts to which the girls return. The placing of the Maori girls under their own Welfare Officers should prove a satisfactory solution to the problem of supervision whilst on probationary licence. In November the resignation of Miss B. N. Trevor as Superintendent after five and a half years service was received. Mr. 11. C. Haywood, Farm Manager, was appointed Superintendent of Wi Tako prison, and his place was filled by Mr. M. MacLaren, of Waikeria Reformatory; Three additional members have joined the staff as assistant Matrons. The warmest thanks are due to the members of the staff for their valued co-operation and loyalty throughout the year. Invercargill Borstal Institution (Superintendent: Mr. H. C. Mathew) Statistics.—On the Ist January, 1947, there were 128 inmates in custody. During the year 101 were received and 123 discharged, leaving 106 in custody on the 31st December. In the reformatory section there were 3 males in custody on the Ist January. During the year 70 males and 1 female were received, 66 males and 1 female were discharged, leaving 7 males in custody at the end of the year. The daily average over the year was 4-9, the greatest number being 14 and the least none. Health.—The number of inmates admitted to the Southland Hospital during the year was 21, compared with 17 last year. Inmates sent for out-patients' treatment totalled 44, and they received 149 treatments. Two inmates were transferred to Seacliff Mental Hospital. Health has been good on the whole, with minor illnesses and injuries at the head of the list of treatments. The institution medical officer, Dr. Miller, examined each inmate on admission and recommended any medical or surgical attention, special diet, or other treatment that may have been necessary. Special attention has always been given to dental health, and Mr. M. Parr has continued to serve the institution in this respect by paying regular visits and being available for urgent work at all times. Eyesight has been another responsibility to which careful attention has been paid, and glasses have been prescribed and provided where necessary. Dr. McLachlan, Assistant Medical Superintendent of the Seacliff Mental Hospital, has paid regular visits, at least monthly, and given psychiatric reports on many of the inmates. As a result of the comprehensive physical and mental care bestowed upon the inmates, they are usually in far better shape on release than we find them on admission, and I think that should help them to take a better place in the community. Case-histories. —A study of the case-histories has been made of all admissions during the year, and more information is being gathered all the time. The following table shows clearly that nearly all inmates have had previous experience of institutional treatment: — First offenders .. .. .. .. .. .. 15 Previously on probation .. .. .. .. .. 30 Previously under care of Child Welfare Officer .. .. .. 51 Previously in child-welfare homes .. .. .. .. 20 Previously in Church orphanages .. .. .. 8 Previously at Otekaike Special School .. .. 3 Previously at Boys' Training Centre, Levin .. .. .. 15 Previously in prison (short sentences) .. .. .. 9 Previously in Borstal .. .. .. .. .. 14 Previously at Seacliff Mental Hospital .. .. 2

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lii this table most of the inmates have been included more than once where they have been subject to more than one type of care. The offences for which inmates were committed to the institution included theft; car-conversion ; breaking, entering, and theft; mischief; cycle-conversion ; sexual charges ; assault; idleness ; false pretences ; breach of probation ; arson ; robbery under arms ; boat-conversion ; and fraud. The first three items were again predominant. The ages of the inmates admitted were : fifteen years, 5 inmates ; sixteen years, 11 inmates ; seventeen years, 26 inmates ; eighteen years, 28 inmates ; nineteen years, 22 inmates ; twenty years, 8 inmates ; twenty-one years, 1 inmate. Educational attainment on admission was: secondary education, 20; passed Form 11, 29 ; passed Form I, 24; passed Standard IV, 18 ; passed Standard 111, 6 ; passed Standard 11, 2 ; illiterate, 2. Behaviour. —The standard of behaviour has been maintained at a reasonably good level. There were some who failed to respond to the discipline and routine of the institution, but, on the whole, we find that the lads give most trouble when first admitted, before they settle down. The number of escapes was again rather fewer than the average for the last few years, 12 inmates being involved altogether. All were recaptured promptly, with the exception of the lad who stowed away oh a ship and feached Panama before being returned to New Zealand. Causes of Delinquency. —As stated last year, the major underlying factor is undoubtedly unsatisfactory home and family circumstances. Domestic strife and divorce, with remarriage of one parent and the advent of a step-father or step-mother, are found time and time again in the case-histories. High wages, unsettled economic conditions, and the ease of finding new jobs are probably also contributing factors. Occupations. —One of the most important functions of the institution is to provide suitable work for the inmates and to teach them good work habits. They cannot be taught a trade in the short time most of them remain here, but they can be taught to handle tools and how to make the best use of them. The healthy, outdoor work that is always available builds them up physically, and it comes at a very important stage in their lives. They can leave here capable of steady and sustained work and some knowledge of some skilled occupation. It is necessary to have a variety of occupations for the different types of individuals passing through our hands, and to this end the farm, with its varied activities, is admirably suited to train them. The officers in charge of the industries are qualified to give both theoretical and practical instruction. We also have a variety of other industries, some connected with the farm and others within the institution itself. These are being extended and equipped with more machines in order to train the inmates in modern methods. The bookbinding industry has developed rapidly, and printing-plant has been added to it this year. This not only fulfils a long-felt want as far as the institution is concerned, but assists other Departments and the local public library and also provides useful training for inmates. School Classes. —(1) Wool-classing and Agriculture: These classes have been continued with good results and are found to be well worth while. During the school term holidays the Agricultural instructor was able to give full-time day classes while the farming activities were at a lull, and this gave all the advantages of a short, intensive course. Prizes were donated for presentation to the best pupils. (2) The Evening School: This was divided into four groups, as in previous years, one of which was at secondary-school stage and more advanced work than usual was undertaken. The subjects studied included English, arithmetic, history, geography, and world affairs.

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(3) W.E.A. Classes : The Otago and Southland branches of the W.E.A. gave generous assistance, and the classes were of great value. The drama classes, under the direction of Mr. J. Marr, proved particularly successful, and plays were presented at entertainments. (4) Choir : Mr. Kennedy Black again organized the choir and brought it up to a high standard so that it could take part in a concert at the Orphans' Club during the year. Concerts were also given at the institution. (5) Other Evening Activities : Life-saving and swimming have been taught by members of the staff and attract a good deal of interest. Painting and signwriting are also taught. Social Life and Entertainment. —A regular weekly programme of 16 mm. soundfilms provided by the Department constituted the mainstay of this side of our activities. Concerts given by various organizations included one by the Boys' Battalion Band, a display of wrestling by the Southland Wrestling Club, the W.E.A., &c. The Borstal Christmas Cheer and Welfare Fund benefited by a donation of £lOO from the Licensing Trust, and other gifts from local citizens. As a result, no lad went short of gifts and comforts at Christmas, and prizes could be given to winners of sports held during the holiday period. Sports and Recreation.—Rugby and association football, baseball, cricket, and tennis are the principal sports played. Coaching was carried out by officers, many of them outside duty hours, and though no great successes were achieved the games were played in a good sporting spirit. Association football was a new development, and our team won an inter-house shield. Drill and gymnastics were taught by a trained instructor and seem to be increasing in popularity. Library. —Our own library has become more useful, as the books are rebound and repaired regularly, and, in addition, the Country Library Service provides us with changes of books quarterly. Better supplies of magazines are being obtained. Religious Activities. —The Invercargill Ministers' Association arranges services each Sunday. In addition, instruction is given by the Roman Catholic Church each week, services by the Salvation Army, and weekly Bible classes for various denominations. Rehabilitation of Inmates.—Our active work ceases when an inmate is released, and all we can do then is to see that he is provided with all the necessary clothing and anything else he may need, such as blankets at a forestry camp, or working-clothes. We assist in finding a job or accommodation if required. If more equipment is needed than the Department can provide and there is insufficient in his account, the resources of the Welfare Fund or the Patient's and Prisoners' Aid Society may be called upon. We feel that if the difficult period of readjustment to the community can be tided over an inmate's chances of rehabilitation are greatly enhanced. Staff. —There have been a number of new appointments to the staff during the year, made necessary by the application of the forty-hour-week principle to the prison service and made practicable by the return of members of the Armed Forces to civilian life. We recruited some very fine types, including skilled tradesmen and men who were responsible for discipline in the Forces. As a result we find it possible to do many jobs around the institution that previously had to be sent outside, thus saving money and providing valuable experience for inmates, but it increases the demand for plant and equipment and tools. The shorter working-week relieves officers of some strain and seems to have brought more contentment on the whole. Annual leave can be taken when due with beneficial results. I wish to express my appreciation of the loyalty and co-operation of the staff during the year.

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Waikeria Borstal Institution (Te Awamuttj) (Superintendent: Mr. P. McMillan) On the Ist January, 1946, there were in custody 58 Borstal inmates, and 41 were received during the year. The number of inmates released on probationary licence was 45, on expiration of sentence 6, on special remission 1, and 2 were transferees to other institutions, thus leaving 45 in custody on 31st December, 1947. In the reformatory section there were in custody at the beginning of the year 72 inmates, and 121 were received during the year. Of these, 104 were either discharged on completion of sentence or released on remission or on probationary licence, 15 were transferred to other institutions, and 1 absconded and has not yet been retaken, the total in custody at the end of the year being 73. Many minor breaches of discipline have, as usual, occurred during the past year, and these have been dealt with as required either by myself where the offence is only of a minor nature, or by the Visiting Justice or the Visiting Committee. lam pleased to be able to say that, in the main the offences committed were mostly of a minor nature. The impression one gains from these acts is that they reflect to a great degree a lack of decent upbringing and probably lack of parental control. It is also pleasing to say that while the acts may be repeated more than once by the same individual, as soon as it is realized that there is no intention to relax the discipline imposed, in many cases there is an almost immediate improvement in conduct which is maintained until release. If the lesson learned is retained by only a percentage of the inmates who pass through this institution, then it can rightly be said that the work being carried out is of great benefit. The Visiting Justice and members of the Visiting Committee were available always as required, and I am deeply indebted to them for their good services. The institution and the Department suffered a great loss during the year through the death of Mr. S. Clark, J.P., who had only recently been appointed to the position of Visiting Justice. The late Mr. Clark was a man of sound judgment and was always ready to lend assistance in any cause for the betterment of Waikeria. During the year there were four escapes, involving five persons. One escapee has so far not been recaptured, but the others were retaken within a short period. The record of the institution in the matter of these escapes must be considered a good one, and it says much for the appreciation of the trust placed in many of the inmates. As mentioned in a previous report, these acts have a most disturbing influence on the others. Except in one case, where the intention was to endeavour to get closer to a wife who was in ill health, no definite reason can be given for these happenings, and I do not consider that because of them any alteration in the present method should be made, or that there should be any tightening up in control or additional supervision given. As ilsual we had, in season, the usual run of influenza and other minor complaints, but there have been no serious illnesses of a general nature. In the reformatory section 25 inmates were laid up for a total of 439 days, 2 inmates accounting for 217 days of this time. In the Borstal sector 15 inmates were laid up for a total of 135 days, and here 4 inmates accounted for 74 days of those quoted. Where necessary, and on the advice of the medical officer, inmates are admitted to the Waikato Hospital. I must again pay tribute to the medical officer, Dr. J. B. W. Roberton, who has been most painstaking and sympathetic in his care of the inmates. One inmate was sent to Waikato Hospital for observation as a poliomyelitis suspect. He was later returned to the institution on the tests proving negative. The dental work necessary has again been capably carried out by Mr. W. Mackenzie.

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Sports have again proved most popular. Tennis and cricket are played in the summer, and football in the winter. During the cricket season the team played matches regularly with outside teams which happened to have a bye in the local competition. The team acquitted itself well, and some most enjoyable games resulted. The institution football team took part in the local competition and performed creditably. Concerts and pictures were again provided by visiting players and by programmes loaned for the occasion. These entertainments are much appreciated by the inmates. Evening educational classes have been continued as in the past. The school year was shortened by reason of the restrictions imposed following the epidemic outbreak. The schoolmaster, Mr. A. L. Kidson, resigned at the end of the year, and, while his successor has been appointed, it is not anticipated that school classes will commence until such time as all restrictions are lifted. Farming activities remain the major work being carried out at Waikeria, and with the still urgent need for foodstuffs overseas every effort has been made to step up production. Revenue has been buoyant, and prices obtained for produce throughout the year has been very good. Sales of bullocks amounted to 173, lambs 3,800. The wool produced amounted to 136 bales, but of this the greater part remains unsold. Portion of the clip was sold earlier in the season and resulted in very good prices being obtained. The lambs tailed numbered 4,046 from an increased flock of 3,909 ewes, a percentage of approximately 103*5. During the year a fifth dairy was erected, and this has taken the surplus stock from the other four dairies, and has enabled the whole to be settled at 120 cows each. As usual sufficient heifer calves were retained at each dairy for necessary replacements. Sales of whole milk were made as usual to the Health Department for the milk-in-schools scheme. Sales here were also curtailed slightly by the epidemic and the early closing of schools. Allied to the dairy industry is the very remunerative industry of pig-raising. Sales have been made to Wi Tako Prison as required, and practically the whole of those fattened here have been carried on to bacon weights. On several ocassions our offerings at the local sale have realized highest prices, sales being made up to £6 18s. per head. In agricultural work some 324 acres were under cultivation, in the following crops : swedes, 100 acres; potatoes, 13 acres ; chou moellier, 60 acres; new pasture, 127 acres ; and 24 acres in oats for chaff. Hay was harvested from 350 acres this year. No ensilage was made. The necessary work of farm maintenance such as repairs to fences, cleaning and clearing of drains, and control of noxious weeds is a job of some magnitude here and occupied a large number of inmates over a considerable period. Much requires to be done to farm fences, but until the supply position improves this work of necessity must be deferred. Very beneficial results could be obtained by further paddock subdivision as this would enable better control of pastures and also better grazing of stock. The position was made more difficult because of the necessity of much fencing in and around ■the new dairy. It was necessary to improvise, and what has been done should suffice for some time to come. The garden has again provided suitable and interesting labour for a number of inmates. The vegetable crop was a good one, and much surplus produce was available for sale. The growing, cultivating, and curing of from 6-7 acres of tobacco also provided suitable work and good instruction for those employed. The process can be followed right from the sowing of the seed in boxes, through the pricking out and growing stages to the harvesting, drying, and packing for despatch to Auckland Prison for manufacture. The crop this year again promises to be a very good one.

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The orchard also promises well this year. This is another avenue for suitable and interested inmates to learn very suitable and congenial work. Should the occasion arise, the advice of officers of the Department of Agriculture is always available and is freely given. The crop from the apiary also promised to be in excess of that of last year, and should also be of good quality. The crop is expected to be in excess of 4,000 lb. Some progress has been made during the year on much-needed maintenance, but much still remains to be done. The building of the new dairy was the only new major work undertaken, and this occupied a considerable time. The shortage of material to some degree hampers this work, but it is hoped the position in this respect will improve in the near future. In general it is fitting to record that at this institution any lad who wishes to apply himself can obtain a really good grounding in all phases of farming work. Summed up, the activities cover dairying, sheep-farming, pig-raising, orchard and apiary work, and also cropping for feed. There are also the annual activities of handling young stock, and the working of horse teams. The surroundings are very good, and while discipline may at first appear to be irksome, this is essential and must be maintained if proper training is to be provided. The past year has been the first full year of the operation of the forty-hour week. This presented difficulties at first but these have in the main been overcome, and while a certain amount of overtime must continue to be paid, this is, I think, kept to reasonable proportions, in keeping with the essential requirements of the institution. The maintenance of proper discipline and the proper carrying-out of the work to be done is dependent to a very great extent on the assistance and the loyal co-operation of the staff. I wish to record that every help has been given me, and I desire to record my thanks.

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STATISTICS Prisoners —General Summary, 1947.

Approximate Cost of Paper. —Preparation, not given ; printing (813 copies), £7O.

By Authority: E. V. Paul, Government Printer, Wellington. —1948.

Price 9d.~\

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Name of Prison. Prisoners received, discharged, &c. In Custody at Beginning of Year. Received during Year. Discharged during Year. Direct from Courts. On Transfer. Addington (Women's Reformatory) Arohata (Women's Reformatory) Arohata (Borstal Institution) .. Auckland Hautu (Tokaanu) Invercargill Invercargill (Borstal Institution) Napier New Plymouth Paparua (Templeton) Rangipo Waikeria (Reformatory) Waikeria (Borstal Institution) Waikune (Erua) Wanganui Wellington Wi Tako (Trentham) Minor Prisons and police-gaols Police lock-ups* Totals M. 236 37 3 128 17 46 132 37 72 58 70 14 97 34 17 F. 4 i9 11 T. 4 'is 247 37 3 128 17 46 132 37 72 58 70 14 97 34 17 M. l,i.72 "56 72 139 76 457 1 13 "44 935 1 251 8 F. 24 19 23 40 "l *4 ' '8 T. 24 19 23 1,212 57 72 143 76 457 ' 1 13 '44 935 1 259 8 M, 97 65 14 29 46 34 72 53 120 28 101 25 87 245 219 F. 7 3 3 11 "l 6 T. 7 3 3 108 65 14 29 46 35 72 53 120 28 101 25 87 245 225 M. l,i<38 61 66 123 182 109 532 47 120 54 104 64 1,029 222 475 I 8 F. 22 22 27 50 "l ' 4 1 i4 T. 22 22 27 1,218 61 67 123 186 110 532 47 120 54 104 64 1,029 222 489 8 998 34 1,032 3,225 119 3,344 1,235 31 1,266 4,364 | 141 4,505 Name of Prison. Prisoners received, discharged, &c. —ctd. Daily Average Number of Prisoners. Sickness. In Custody at End of Year. Admissions to Hospital during Year. Daily Average on Sick-list. Addington (Women's Reformatory) Arohata (Women's Reformatory) Arohata (Borstal Institution) .. Auckland Hautu (Tokaanu) Invercargill Invercargill (Borstal Institution) Napier New Plymouth Paparua (Templeton) Rangipo Waikeria (Reformatory) Waikeria (Borstal Institution) Waikune (Erua) Wanganui Wellington Wi Tako (Trentham) Minor prisons and police-gaols Police lock-ups* . . Totals M. 337 41 7 106 20 47 129 43 73 45 67 19 90 58 12 F. 13 'is 12 T. 13 is 349 41 7 106 20 47 129 43 73 45 67 19 90 58 12 M. 293-52 44-45 4-92 122-41 21-69 48-34 110-21 40-70 70-09 51-93 72-52 13-25 93-50 54-40 14-52 15-21 F. 6 - 56 0-34 18-30 12-40 o : ii 0-08 T. 6-56 0-34 18-30 305-92 44-45 4-92 122-41 21-80 48-34 110-21 40-70 70-09 51-93 72-52 13-25 93-50 54-40 14-60 15-21 M. i.3 6 1 18 2 4 8 "7 2 1 13 5 i "3 2 1 T. "3 15 6 2 18 2 4 8 "7 2 2 1 13 0-03 6"-33 6-87 0-62 0-18 3-96 0-23 0-61 0-81 0-14 1-23 0-37 0-52 0-57 1-58 1-02 1,094 43 1,137 1,071-66 37-79 1,109-45 82 6 88 19-07 * Deemed to be prisons under the provisions of section 17 of the Statute Law Amendment Act, 1917.