PRISONS (REPORT ON) FOR THE YEAR 1948-49

Appendix to the Journals of the House of Representatives, 1949 Session I, H-20

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1949 NEW ZEALAND

PRISONS (REPORT ON) FOR THE YEAR 1948-49

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

The Hon. the Minister oe Justice to His Excellency the Governor-General Wellington, 4th August, 1949. 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 1948-49. I have, &c., H. G. R. Mason, Minister of Justice.

The Controller-General or 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 ended 31st March, 1949, and incorporating the criminal statistics for the year ended 31st December, 1948. INTRODUCTORY Appended to this statement are the reports of the controlling officers of the various prisons, reformatories, prison camps, and Borstal institutions. These reports outline in more detail the work being carried out in an endeavour to provide training and useful occupation for all persons placed in the Department's care. The primary aim of the Department is the ultimate satisfactory rehabilitation of every prisoner. The results achieved are, of course, contingent upon the character and disposition of the offenders dealt with. Those who have become habituated in crime, either by reason of their deliberately making it a profession or because of a psychopathic personality, offer little hope of reformation, and for the protection of society custody is the only practical course, but for young offenders, and accidental offenders in respect of whom special circumstances have led to sporadic acts of aberrational conduct, there is a more hopeful prospect from a reformative point of view. It will be noted from a perusal of the Borstal reports referred to above, that the policy of the Department is to place the greatest emphasis on the provision of reclamative influences and training facilities for young offenders.

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At the Borstals a few years ago the Department appointed Housemasters who were charged with the responsibility of integrating the training-work of the institution and developing socialising influences. Consideration has been given to the possibility of extending this phase of reclamative work to the larger prisons, and during the year a Welfare Officer was appointed to Mount Eden Prison who will have personal, but non-disciplinary, contact with every prisoner with a view to helping him in his problems, and who will be responsible for co-ordinating the work of all concerned with the prisoner's rehabilitation. The general scheme of classification is based on sex, age, criminal experience, and propensities. In the first instance prisoners are placed under observation for a short period at a central prison, and are subsequently assigned to institutions suited to their needs and personality and where they are considered likely to react most satisfactorily. The more dangerous and intractable prisoners in respect of whom security considerations are important are detained at Mount Eden Prison ; the more amenable and in respect of whom there are reasonable hopes of reformation are transferred to the farms and camps ; the younger offenders are sent to Borstal institutions ; prisoners showing inclination to sex perversion are segregated at New Plymouth, where the Medical Officer is a psychiatrist who gives special attention to helping inmates to resolve their behaviour problems ; and the older and infirm prisoners are kept at Wanganui. Wellington Prison is mainly a trial and remand prison, and Wi Tako is a small prison farm to take the overflow of short-sentence prisoners from Wellington and other nearby police gaols. At the camps and prison farms the " open system " is in vogue and the prisoners, except at night, are to a large extent placed on their honour. All the younger offenders are subjected to examination by a psychiatrist, as also are all prisoners manifesting abnormal characteristics from a mental point of view. STATISTICS Receptions.—The prison population was slightly lower during 1948 than during the previous year. The daily average number in custody was 1,109. The number of distinct persons received into prison during 1948 was 2,181, made up of 2,124 males and 57 females, as compared with the total of 2,351 during 1947. A table showing the number of receptions and discharges at each institution is appended 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 table that the number of receptions during 1948 was 336 less than the figure for the previous year. Included amongst the receptions were 427 ship-deserters, which number accounts for approximately 10 per cent, of the total number of persons committed to prison. Notwithstanding this external influence, the general trend of prison population in New Zealand continues downwards. It is of interest to note the ratio of prisoners to each 10,000 of the general population over the years : 1890, 38-61 ; 1914 (pre World War I), 31-05 ; '1935, 13-76 ; 1939 (pre World War II), 15-38 ; 1943, 15-17 ; 1947, 13-04; 1948, 11-84.

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| 1944. j 1 1945. 1946. 1947. 1948. Number in custody at beginning of year Xumber received during year Number discharged or transferred Number in prison at end of year 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 1,137 4,274 4,386 1,025

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Mature 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 :

In view of the concern recently expressed in the public press and elsewhere regarding the incidence of sexual offences, the number of offences against the person has been subdivided to show offences of a sexual nature and other offences. It is of interest to note that during 1948 there were fewer persons committed to prison for sexual offences than in either of the previous two years. It will also be noted that the number of commitments for other offences against the person was the lowest recorded during the past ten years. The number of persons imprisoned for offences against property during 1948 was 104 less than those for the previous year. Under the heading " Miscellaneous Offences " the total is down on the number for the previous year, and it would have been even lower but for the ship-desertion cases already referred to. Length of Sentence.—Hereunder is set out a table showing in comparative form the length of sentences imposed on persons committed to prison during the year

It will be observed that no less than 55 per cent, of the total number of distinct persons sentenced to imprisonment were given terms of three months or less, and that 67 per cent, received terms of less than six months. Although it would not be practicable to eliminate entirely short sentences as a summary penalty in the lower Courts, it is plainly evident that with regard to persons of criminal inclination they serve little purpose from a deterrent point of view. Any sensitivity or self-respect they may have had is dulled and the fear of future imprisonment is lessened. They are also futile in so far as affording any opportunity to exercise a reformative influence by way of

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Year. Offences Against the Person. Sexual. [ Other Offences. 1 Offences Against Property. Miscellaneous Offences. Total. 1948 85 122 948 1,029 2,181 1947 112 152 1,049 1,038 2,351 1946 92 129 974 1,018 2,213 1945 77 149 985 854 2,065 1944 84 134 947 934 2,099 1943 86 153 1,081 1,162 2,482 1942 110 199 969 1,751 ! 3,029 1941 96 153 789 1,331 2,369 1940 94 144 789 1,174 2,201 1939 80 158 ■777 1,490 2,505

Number of Prisoners. Term of Sentence. I 1944. 1945. 1946. 1947. j 1948 Under one month 367 364 425 349 394 One month and under three months .. 627 639 753 866 ,807 Three months and under six months .. 327 318 274 313 262 Six months and under twelve months .. 189 1D7 203 224 206 One year and under three years 456 449 458 496 426 Three years and under five years 78 64 79 84 59 Five years and over 31 18 15 14 24 Indefinite " defaulters ") 24* 26* 6 5 3 Totals 2,099 2,065 2,213 2,351 2,181

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training or habit adjustment, for which time is an essential element. I have on more than one occasion hitherto adverted to 'this matter, and it is of interest to note the following extract from a recent bulletin issued by the United Nations Economic and Social Council, which is apropos in this regard Our century is characterized by the abuse of the short sentence, as the nineteenth century was characterized by corporal punishment. In the interests of both human dignity and social defence, short terms of imprisonment should be opposed as failing to protect society, as well as failing to check the development of criminal careers. It is time now that the short sentence should be replaced by more suitably effective measures. The harmful consequences both to the individual and to society of short sentences of imprisonment go far beyond the punitive aims of criminal justice. The purpose of a penal sanction is the protection of society, and to this end it is essential hot only to have regard to the offence, but also to the offender. This aspect was featured during the discussions on the Criminal Justice Act, 1948 (Imp.), and it is of interest to note that in New Zealand we have provision under the Crimes Amendment Act 1910, which empowers the Courts, " having regard to the conduct, character, associations, or mental condition of the offender," as well as to the nature of the offence and any special circumstances of the case, to order, in addition to or without any preliminary term of imprisonment, that the offender may be detained in prison for reformative purposes for any period not exceeding ten years (three years by a Magistrate). Reformative detention is a finite form of indeterminate sentence for training and stabilizing an offender. It is interesting to note that in the original draft of the Bill nomaximum limit was stipulated. The period to be served was to be contingent solely on the prisoner's amenability to reformative influences and to be determined by the Prisons Board, which in recommending was to have regard to the interest of society as well as the interests of the offender. This latter provision was enacted and still subsists. Under our law the sentencing of offenders is a matter entirely within the discretion of the Courts. Though there is a right of appeal against the severity of a sentence, there is no appeal on the ground that a sentence is inadequate. Nonetheless the Courts, equally with the Prisons administration, are integral components in the machinery of justice for law enforcement and the suppression of crime. Without presuming to offer criticism, but simply to state facts from a long and close-up association with the operation of the criminal law, it is submitted that unless a sentence is sufficient to enable remedial measures to be applied it is largely futile in its purpose. Over the past decade or so there appears to have developed a reluctance on the part of the Courts to utilize the penal sanctions available in a maimer likely to achieve the best results. By way of illustration I would cite the case of " A," aged twenty-three, with sixteen previous convictions for theft —on appearing in the Supreme Court charged with shop-breaking (a prevalent offence at the time), was sentenced to six months' reformative detention. Such a sentence is a misnomer and is simply a more euphemistic way of ordering imprisonment. It is not sufficiently long to have any stabilizing influence on the offender and misses entirely the purpose of the law instituting reformative detention. As another example, take the case of " B," aged twenty —on being found guilty of unlawful conversion, breaking and entering, receiving, and theft (eight charges in all) was sentenced to twelve months' reformative detention. His previous convictions included arson and attempted murder. The prisoner is above normal in intelligence, but shows defective judgment. He is a psychopathic case, but is not certifiable. He is not safe to be at large, at least until he has stabilized, yet his sentence being finite he must be released before he should be in his own interest or in the interests of society. Take the case of " C," aged thirty-four, with seventeen previous convictions, who after "a continuous career of crime" appeared on a charge of housebreaking and was sentenced to twelve months' reformative detention. This offender is definitely an habitual criminal and the sentence imposed serves no protection to society.

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The foregoing are actual cases dealt with in day-to-day routine and are by no means isolated. Under the Crimes Amendment Act, 1910, it is provided that the Court shall fix the maximum having regard to such matters as the character and disposition of the offender, the nature and prevalence of the crime, and the protection of society, but the actual quantum of sentence to be served is left to a later study of the prisoner's reactions by the Prisons Board. Under an appropriate sentence of reformative detention an offender should be able "to be detained either in an institution, or afterwards on probation, for sufficiently long to enable redemptive influences to make their impression, and sufficiently long to enable the Prisons Board to gauge whether the interests of society and the interests of the -offender have been served by the sentence. For example, when a person appears before the Court on successive occasions it is futile for the Court to measure out a few months' imprisonment having regard only to the last offence. The Court should have regard to the protection of society and impose a sentence that will be deterrent and allow time for the training, disciplining, and stabilizing of the prisoner, after which the prisoner will attain his freedom when he can satisfy the Prisons Board that he has reformed and seen the folly of his ways. For the unexpired portion of his sentence he should remain on probation to prove to the authorities that he has stabilized. A short sentence does not allow for this. A principle to be observed is that the more generous sanctions of the law are not intended for crimes involving deliberation and brutality —e.g., gross crimes of violence, robbery under arms, &c., should be met by salutary sentences. Where the circumstances disclose the basic pre-disposing cause as characterial defect, in such cases reformative detention would seem to be more appropriate, but it misses the intention and purpose of the law to impose a sentence of reformative detention that would be equivalent in length to a sentence of hard labour. In the generality of cases it should be substantially longer, the underlying idea being that a sentence of reformative detention shall be reviewed earlier and oftener than a sentence of hard labour and may be substantially reduced, if on the offender's showing it would be in the interests of the community and the prisoner's interests that he can be released on probation. If the sentence initially is too short the Prison Board's function is stultified and all that it is left to do is to consider a short " good-conduct remission," which is a reversion to the state of affairs existing before the passing of the Crimes Amendment Act constituting the Prisons Board and instituting the reformative-detention sentence. The greater effectiveness of longer sentences as means of protecting the community and as a means of rehabilitating criminals is exemplified by the fact that of the total number of cases, excluding habitual criminals, dealt with by the Prisons Board—and be it noted the Board only deals with cases where the sentences exceeds six months —the percentage of relapses involving subsequent conviction is approximately 25 per cent. In contradistinction it is the short-sentence prisoners who largely, constitute the residual group of recidivists. Under the Crimes Act, sections 29 and 30, there is provision for dealing with persistent offenders, but here again there seems to be a diffidence on the part of the ■Courts to utilize these provisions for the protection of society. By way of illustration take the case of " D," aged fifty-seven, with nineteen previous convictions, who was given on his last appearance for theft six months' imprisonment; " E," aged fifty-six, with forty-eight previous convictions, who was sentenced to six months' imprisonment; F " aged sixty-one, a persistent " false pretences artist" with twenty-seven previous convictions involving ninety-nine charges, who, on appearing on two further charges, was sentenced to twelve month's imprisonment; and "G," aged forty-four, with ninety-seven previous convictions, on pleading guilty to three charges of false pretences

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was' sentenced to six months. These are typical of many cases where it would have been more effective to have sent the case on to the Supreme Court for it to have considered the matter of declaring the prisoner to be an " habitual offender." Take the case of " H," aged sixty-four, with sixteen previous convictions for offences of a homo-sexual nature. On appearing before the Court recently on four charges of indecent assault on males, was sentenced to two years' imprisonment,, notwithstanding that he had already served longer terms. This is a clear case of psychopathic perversion, and for the protection of boys an indeterminate sentence as an habitual criminal would seem to have been a more appropriate way of dealing with the case. In the treatment of all offenders there are two interests to be considered —that of the offender and that of the community. The reconciliation of both may sometimes be impossible, but the welfare of society must in all cases be the paramount objective. This is where the judicious selection of the form of penalty comes in. If a penalty can be imposed which will be salutary in its effect and at the same time avoid the infliction of any psychic weal which will impair the offender as a citizen, the law will have been vindicated, and an asset retrieved instead of an embittered offender becoming a liability on the State. The primary purpose of a constructive penal sanction is neither the imposition of punishment nor the exacting of retribution, but the protection of society. And apart from the protection of the community, the interest of the prisoners themselves is involved. There is no doubt that many prisoners are unable, or unwilling, to conform to a socially acceptable pattern of behaviour, and there are some who are less unhappy in the well-ordered security of a prison than in following the precarious and checkered existence of a social misfit. Nationality of Offenders. —The following table shows the prisoners, grouped on a. nationality basis, received into prison during each of the past ten years :

Whilst the-figures under each heading have lessened, the most noticeable reduction is the number of Maoris committed to prison during 1948 as compared with the previous six years ; nonetheless, it is still to be noted that the Maoris in prison at the end of 1948 constituted 20-88 per cent, of the total number of persons in prison, whereas the percentage of Maoris to the general population of the Dominion was only 6 per cent.. As the result of concern last year at the higher incidence of Maori offenders, the Department arranged for a closer working liaison with Maori Welfare Officers, and it has now been arranged that on ±he release of a Maori prisoner the Welfare Officer of the place to which the man returns is notified and required to interest himself in the prisoner's rehabilitation. This, coupled with the quickened interest of Maori councils, probably has a bearing on the lessened number of commitments during the past year, though it is yet too early to speak conclusively on this aspect.

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Year. New-Zealand-born (excluding Maoris). Maoris. British and Foreign. 1 Total. 1 i 1948 .. 1947 1946 ... 1945 .. 1944 1943 1942 1941 1940 ... 1939 .. 1.077 1.078 1,006 1,109 1,105 1.401 1,880 1.402 1,257 1,427 1 347 446 422 430 553 523 450 346 • 330 310 757 827 785 526 441 558 699 621 614 768 2,181 2,351 2,213 2,065 2,099 2,482 3,029 2,369 2,201 2,505 1 • t .. • ;

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Age of Offenders. —Hereunder is set out a table covering the past ten years showing offenders classified in age-groups :

Apart from the reduction in the total receptions during 1948, and the lesser number in each age-group as compared with the previous year, the most satisfactory feature is the decrease in the number of young offenders sentenced to imprisonment. Since the war years, up till last year, the number of offenders under twenty-five years of age had shown an upward trend, whereas prior to this the highest incidence of crime was amongst those round about forty and over, and last year this was again the position. MISCELLANEOUS There were 2 deaths, both the result of accidents at one of the camps, recorded during 1948. Escapes.—During the year, 35 prisoners and -18 Borstal detainees escaped from custody. All of these were recaptured. Mental Defectives. —A total of 26 persons was transferred from prisons and Borstals to the various mental hospitals, 9 for observation under section 37, and 17 under section 38. Borstal Receptions. —A total of 95 males and 11 females were committed direct to Borstal by the Courts, and 2 were transferred from Child Welfare institutions. Courts-martial. —Five prisoners sentenced by military courts-martial were received into prison during the. year. GENERAL HEALTH OF PRISONERS The general health of prisoners has been good. The medical officers throughout have been regular in their attention to prisoners, as also have been the dentists. Where dental treatment has been necessary for a prisoner's health, the Department has .anticipated his earnings when he has not been sufficiently in credit and has provided the cost of dentures, recouping later, but leaving the prisoner sufficient funds for his release. There were 93 males and 8 females admitted to the public hospitals or prison infirmaries during the year. The daily average on the sick-list throughout all institutions was 20-22, which is approximately 2 per cent, of the total 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 may be ascribed to the orderly routine and the simple, well-balanced, and wholesome diet. It is a notable fact that prisoners generally leave prison in a much better physical condition than when they enter.

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Age-group. 1939. 1940. 1941. 1942. 1943. 1944. J 1945. 1946. 1947. 1948. Under 20 178 203 201 308 354 283 254 294 244 190 20-25.. 424 348 478 749 639 506 524 698 713 628 25-30.. 413 322 405 531 396 354 343 341 441 428 30-40.. 612 492 533 709 490 461 470 412 486 445 40. and upwards 875 833 745 732 603 495 473 468 466 489 Not stated 3 3 7 1 1 1 Totals 2,505 2,201 2,369 3,029 2,482 2,0992,065 2,213 2,351 2,181

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INDUSTRIAL AND FINANCIAL Hereunder is set out a comparative statement showing tlie 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 for occupational purposes :

The increased net cost per head is due to some extent to the smaller number of prisoners dealt with, but apart from this there has been an increase of some £24,000 in the expenditure from vote, " Prisons." The main factors in this increase were : an increase of £lO,OOO in the item " Overtime " consequent upon the introduction of the forty-hour week, and an increase of £15,000 in the " General Prison Industries "" section of the vote. The increase of £lO,OOO on " Overtime " was due to the introduction as from Ist April, 1948, of penal-rate payments to staff for week-end and holiday duty. The £15,000 increase in the " Prison Industries " was due to certain materials purchased becoming available earlier than was anticipated, and also to the purchase of new equipment in the way of transport, farm tractors, and machinery. For many years the development of prison industries was largely the motive being to provide useful employment, and where ample labour was available little was done in the way of mechanization, but in recent .years more consideration has been given to the vocational aspect, and in furtherance of the idea of affording facilities for training prisoners which will assist them in getting employment on release it has been found increasingly desirable to acquire modern mechanical equipment. At one time, for example, milking was done by hand, but now machines are generally installed, and similarly with other phases of farm-work, up-to-date mechanical equipment is used. This adds to the interest of the work and provides better training. It is arguable, because of the possible risk of damage to mechanical appliances by careless handling, just how far the equipping of industries with mechanical aids to be handled by prisoners should go, but the Department feels that training in up-to-date methods and the use of modern equipment is essential to successful*rehabilitation, and that the counter to the risk factor is the development of greater interest in the work, and in supervision. Departmental cash receipts or credits for the year have shown an increase of £1,300 making a total of £114,258, which is another record, as compared with £112,956 for 1948. There was a decrease of credits under the industry, " Mail-bags'," due to fairly large claims being unpaid at 31st March, but when the accounts are completed on a trading, basis it is not anticipated that this industry will show any decrease in net earnings. In last year's report mention was made of an increase of £13,000 in receipts from " Farms and Gardens," and this year there has been a further increase over last year of £2,000. In the main the other industrial undertakings' credits were on a par with the previous year.

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Year. Gross Expenditure. Credits. Ret Expenditure. Total. Per Head. Total. Per Head. Total. I Per Head. . £ £ £ £ £ £ 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 1 161-34 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 1948-49 .. .. 276,894 259-19 114,258 106-95 162,636 152-24 ! ! 1

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The industrial activities in which inmates of institutions are trained covered a fairly wide and varied scope.. Whilst in the limited time the Department does not claim, nor is it practicable, to turn out fully qualified tradesmen, prisoners do acquire a good practical training which is a great assistance in securing employment on release. But apart from the acquisition of skill, which is a factor in the building-up of self-esteem, the development of the habit of industry, and the capacity to apply oneself regularly to steady work, plays a great part in character development. The main prison activities cover tailoring, bootmaking, concrete-post and pavement-block making, quarrying, farming, truck gardening, printing, bookbinding, road construction and maintenance, laundering, tobacco growing and manufacture, furniture-manufacturing, and tinsmithing, besides the usual institutional employment on cleaning, cooking, and breadmaking. Most of these have been carried on for some years past, but a new and growing industry has been developed at the Invercargill Borstal, where a bookbinding-shop has been set up. Besides doing binding-work for a number of departmental offices, a considerable amount of work is also done for the National and Country Library Services. The lads at Invercargill have shown a keen interest in this work and its occupational worth as a light industry is high. It is intended to develop in conjunction with this bookbinding-shop a--"srf!all printery to print some of the requirements of the Justice Division of the Department, whilst the printery at Wellington Prison will continue to handle the requirements of the Prisons Division. Further mechanization of the carpenter's shop at Invercargill has just been completed and. its useful production capacity has been considerably increased. Besides attending to the requirements of the local institution, this shop has been used to give inmates practical training, in the making of furniture as required for different offices throughout the Dominion. It is proposed to use this shop to fulfill the needs of all our offices, both Justice and Prisons, as furniture replacements are required. The Department largely confines itself to industry for State use, and endeavours to keep out of the competitive field. As the departmental accounts on a trading basis as at 31st March, 1949, are not yet complete, the earlier comments necessarily refer only to cash receipts and payments. On the industrial side of the institutions' operations the Public Account surplus for the year ended 31st March, 1947, was £25,739. For 1948 this surplus, after charging .supervision (£24,000), interest (£11,400), and depreciation (£3,000), was £34,606 : Industry. Public Account Surplus. £ Blockmaking .. .. .. .. .. 23* Bootmaking .. .. .. .. .. .. 1,140 Brickworks .. .. . - .. .. .. 288* Farming .. .. .. .. .. .. 21,125 Gardening .. .. .. .. .. .. 765 Laundering .. .. .. .. .. .. 244* Roadworks .. .. .. .. .. .. 82* Quarrying .. .. .. .. .. .. 8,582 Tailoring .. .. .. . . .. 2,855 Tobacco .. .. .. .. .. .. 290 Miscellaneous .. .. .. .. .. 486 Over-all surplus .. .. .. .. £34,606 * Deficit .

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The deficits on blockmaking, brickworks, laundering, and roadworks were due to : Blockmaking : A continued shortage of reinforcing-steel and cement. Most of the cost is overhead and output is severely restricted. Brickworks: Overhead charges on unrealized capital. Active manufactureceased some years ago and the plant disposed of. Laundering : Special laundry accounts are kept only for Arohata Borstal and Addington Reformatory, and at both establishments it has been necessary to curtail the output of work undertaken. Roadworks : Cost of metal production and transport are high, and metal once easily obtained from roadside quarries is now more difficult and costly to> get out. The Department is examining the position with a view to the utilization of a compressor and other machinery which will enable higher production at a more economical figure to be attained. For " Farming and Gardening " the output figure for 1947 was valued at £68,000,. whereas for 1948 the output was valued at £78,000. A comparison of farming output for each institution for the two years is shown as follows : 1947. 1948. £ £ Arohata .. .. .. .. 670 890 Hautu .. .. .. .. 7,220 6,200 Invercargill .. .. .. ..10,300 11,800 Paparua .. .. .. .. 8,850 13,130 Rangipo .. .. .. .. 3,000 4,820 Waikeria .. .. .. .. 28,900 31,900 Waikune .. .. .. .. 1,450 1,200 WiTako .. .. .. .. 4,400 6,120 Minor gardens .. .. .. .. 3,100 2,800 £67,890 £78,860 The farm live-stock as carried by the Department as at 31st March, 1949, comprised— Sheep .. .. .. 15,469, including 10,202 breeding-ewes. Cattle.. .. .. 3,284, including 1,076 milking-cows. Pigs .. .. .. 1,161, including 144 breeding-sows. Horses.. .. .. 207 Poultry .. .. 984 Taken by and large the Department's farming ventures have not only been a successfrom the financial angle, but also from the point of view of the general health of prisoners, occupationally in so far as it provides interesting work which is of advantage to> them in their rehabilitation, and as a means of assisting in the Dominion's general economy. The boot-shops at Auckland and Invercargill manufacture and repair boots for departmental requirements as well as a considerable number for the Mental Hygiene Division of the Health Department, the Education Department, and the Tourist Department. Over a twelve-monthly period the Auckland boot-shop manufactured 9,400 pairs of boots and slippers, repaired many hundreds of pairs of boots and shoes, besides making some 350 messengers' and postmen's satchels for the Post and Telegraph Department.

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Quarry output value from the two small quarries at Napier and New Plymouth, ■the larger quarry at Auckland, and the gravel-pit at Paparua was £16,700 for 1948, as compared with £11,700 for 1947. The new machinery at Paparua is now coming to hand, and the Works Department has been asked to report on the Auckland quarry machinery, .as the present installation produces a metal which is too large to meet to-day's requirements. STAFF During the year Mr. D. A. Mackintosh, who occupied the position of Deputy 'Controller-General of Prisons and Inspector of Prisons, retired on superannuation. Mr. Mackintosh, through his long association with the Department, had an intimate knowledge of the law and the work relating to prison management. He was also a most •courteous and loyal' officer. Another serious loss to the Department was the retirement, due to ill health, of Mr. T. Banks, who for over twenty years was the officer in charge of the Hautu Prison Development Farm. Few men in New Zealand had a better knowledge of pumice-land •development work and few had a more practical understanding of the handling of prisoners. Mr. A. St. P. Jordan, Superintendent of the Wi Tako Prison, also retired on superannuation, and Miss F. Mason, Superintendent of the Addington Women's Reformatory, resigned to get married. Both of these officers rendered excellent service to the Department. Mr. H. C. Mathew, Superintendent of the Invercargill Borstal Institution, resigned to take up a somewhat similar appointment in the Victorian Prison Service. Mr. Mathew's departure will mean a distinct loss to the Department, as he .always showed great enthusiasm and initiative in boys' work. Indeed, I think it may be said that it was his missionary urge to serve in a field where there appeared to him to be a greater need for his services that induced him to leave the Invercargill Borstal. A further unfortunate casualty in our controlling officers' ranks was the loss of Mr. A. A. Douglas, late Gaoler at Napier, who, after some months of illness, recently died. During recent years the Department lost the valued services of the late Mr. D. Dunlop, Superintendent of Waikeria ; Mr. Leggett, Superintendent of Mount Eden ; Mr. Spittall, Superintendent of Paparua ; and Mr. Stocker, Superintendent of New Plymouth —all retiring on superannuation—and of Miss Trevor, Superintendent of Arohata —who resigned to be married. It will be seen that there has been over the past few years a heavy depletion of the senior ranks, which, when coupled with shortened staff, has made the task of administration unusually difficult. As this will be my last annual report I feel constrained to make special reference to the Prison staff, both by way of appreciation and encouragement. During the past ten years, more particularly since the war years, the staffing position until quite recently steadily deteriorated, in the result that a heavy burden has been thrown on the shortened staff, and at times has given rise to concern for security. Few suitable men have been offering for the Service, and the Department has been obliged to appoint men who •ordinarily would be rejected because of not being up to the requisite standard. As a •consequence defections have been higher than would otherwise have been the case. For example, of the 138 new appointments since Ist April, 1947, 82 have been paid off. This turnover of staff is disrupting and inconvenient from an administrative point of view. Prison-work is undoubtedly exacting and calls for high personal qualities. It is not .always pleasant, it involves regular week-end duty and turns of night duty. Because of this many of our staff are lured to other occupations by the attraction of easier •conditions or better pay outside the Service, although recently the salary scale has been improved and further recommendations to this end have been made.

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Another matter contributing to our staffing position is the fact that for some years \ prior to the war there was an insidious anti-authoritarian propaganda campaign carried \ on by a group of extremists in what may be termed an anarchistic effort to impede and break down law-enforcement machinery. In the United States of America and Canada it was known as " communist penitentiary propaganda." The tactics adopted were to foment discontent in prison, both in regard to staff and to the prisoners, and to disparage the status of prison-work in order to prejudice recruitment. The outbreak of war witnessed, both in New Zealand and abroad, an impetus to this nuisance by reason of the fact that many pacifists, military defaulters, and their sympathizers aligned themselves as fellow-travellers with the extremists in their policy of disparagement and creating discord. The staff deeply resented the unfair attacks made on their character and status.. It seriously affected morale and has undoubtedly hindered recruitment. It was refreshing to read the tribute paid to his prison staff by the Attorney-General of Canada : To take a group of men of varying dispositions and temperament, to keep them steadily at work, guarding against escapes and infractions, to be prepared at any moment to endanger one's life or ready to grapple with a refractory prisoner, and bring the men back at closing a little better for having been under one's care, demands high qualities of manhood and resourcefulness. In all callings where human factors are involved, the success or otherwise of the work is largely contingent on the attitude and quality of the staff concerned. This is predominantly the case with the Prison Service, where throughout the working-day,, in one manner or another, there is a play of personality upon personality, j To-day prison-work has the dignity not only of labour, but of service. It is. I concerned with the shaping of the lives of men. Few fields of work offer as many opportunities for genuine and satisfying community service. The work is unlike almost any other branch of the Public Service and cannot be measured by ordinary departmental, standards, nor, as is the case with a business concern, can the efficacy of a prison administration be gauged by ledger balances alone. Its value is judged to-day not merely as a social quarantine to protect society for the time being by removing elements dangerous to its health, but by its more enduring influence in reshaping the lives of wayward men. A Department which deals with human beings and problems of human behaviour cannot function as an impersonal machine. The human touch is vital, for it must assume the common humanity of those committed to its care and of those who have to deal with them. The self-respect of the prisoner must not be lowered, but strengthened, also his sense of social obligation and duty as a citizen. The self-respect of the staff and the esteem in which they are held, both inside and outside the prison, is dependent on their attitude towards those placed in their care. The prison officer must be able to deal with all sorts and conditions of people in an attitude of objectivity and patience. The Department notes with interest the institution of a Chair of Social Science at Victoria University College, and already discussions have taken place with Professor Marsh with a view to exploring the practicability of co-ordinating academic study with the practical work of the Department and providing a tutorial service for the staff. Whilst, in general,, one would be inclined to agree with the views of the Scottish Prison Service that the " long-haired University type " is not always the most effectual in the 1 Prison Service, and that practical men of common-sense are to be preferred, it must nonetheless be granted that a study of the social sciences gives a background appreciation of behaviour problems and assists in dealing more with them. Competence in prison-work has its roots in actual experience on the job, or what is termed " in-service training."

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Mr. L. W. Fox, Chairman of the English Commission, in addressing a recent conference of prison officers, posed the question, — What is it that as a Service we are asked to do ? We have to take all the social misfits, menaces, and nuisances whom the Courts decide to punish by imprisonment, and to apply that punishment in such a way as in those hallowed words of the Gladstone Committee, which after fifty years still remain the overriding directive of our Service, " to send them out of prison, so far as is possible, better men and women than when they came in . . Unless you can keep those words constantly in your mind I do not see how your work can ever be anything but a rather cramped and pointless grind . . . a keen and constructive interest in the real values of the job can make the job worth while . . . Security and discipline are no longer the only needs of the prison, but they are still the foundations, and unless these are sound the building we have to erect upon them will never be firm. I ask every officer to keep before him in his daily work the idea that you form part of a great social service that is worth while, not only materially but spiritually. Mr. James Bennett, Director of the Bureau of Federal Prisons in United States of America, in " The Way to Prison Work," writes : To the average prisoner the prison officer is a representative of that authority which has deprived him of his liberty. He recognizes three types of prison employee : those he can take advantage of, those who take advantage of him, and those who strike a happy balance between these two extremes . . . The happy medium is the employee who is honest and who is scrupulously fair in his dealings with prisoners. He is firm with those requiring firm treatment, but is never cruel or abusive. He is lenient with those deserving leniency. He keeps his temper even in the most provocative situation and he does not lose his sense of proportion. There have been isolated instances where a member of the staff has failed in his trust by being a party to trafficking, or has not deported himself with a due sense of propriety. There were two cases during the year of alleged mishandling of prisoners. Both were the subject of judicial inquiry and were held to be without foundation. The general body of controlling officers and staff have rendered excellent service, and I desire to take this opportunity of paying a tribute to those prison officers who have loyally risen to the heavy demands a depleted staff have involved and to express appreciation of the valuable and important service rendered to the country under difficult circumstances. CONCLUSION I desire to place on record the Department's appreciation of the help rendered by Visiting Justices, Visiting Committees, and Official Visitors. These constitute an independent body, apart from departmental officers, who maintain a check on the standard of conditions, and also provide an independent avenue for the ventilation of any complaint that a prisoner may have regarding his treatment. The Department is also grateful to the various ministers of religion, officers of the Salvation Army, and members of the various voluntary welfare organizations, and many other public-spirited individuals, who have kindly assisted in ministering to the spiritual well-being of those placed in the Department's care. After-care work is recognized as an integral part of the correctional plan for reinstatement in the community as the objective, and in this regard the special thanks of the Department are due to the Women's Borstal Association and the various Prisoner's Aid Societies, the Probation Officers, Maori Welfare Officers, and Employment Officers. B. L. Ballard, Controller-General of Prisons.

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PRISONS AND BORSTAL INSTITUTIONS : EPITOME OF REPORTS OF CONTROLLING OFFICERS Addington Reformatory Prison (Women) (Superintendent: Miss F. E. Mason) I have the honour to submit my annual report for the year ended December, 1948. At the commencement of the year there were 13 inmates in custody. During the year 25 were received, 7 released on expiration, 8 on licence, 1 on payment of fine, 14 handed to the police, and 1 transferred, leaving a total of 7 inmates in custody at the close of the year. The health of the inmates has been satisfactory, considering their condition on admission to the institution. Four have attended the clinic at the public hospital for treatment of venereal disease ; 3of these have been discharged. Two were admitted to the public hospital for observation and treatment. Five have received dental treatment — extractions, fillings, and dentures have been provided. Two have had their eyes tested and received glasses. The general behaviour has been good, only 3 breaches of the regulations have been dealt with by the Visiting Justice. Owing to the decreased numbers and the continued shortage of staff it has been impossible to carry on with large laundry contracts, but the institution laundry and other branches of domestic work, as well as sewing and gardening, has been sufficient to keep every one in constant employment. Cooking proves one of the most interesting occupations to the majority of the women, and every opportunity is given to them to train in this important work. A plentiful supply and variety of vegetables are produced from the institution garden, as well as tomatoes and fruit; through this, the dietary scale has maintained a high standard and made the arranging of the meals more interesting. During recreation hours the women are trained to make use of their spare time and all types of needlework is encouraged. Remarkable talent has been displayed in this occupation and very keen competition is shown in the making of their own clothes. Coats and suits, as well as frocks and underclothes, have been cut out and made up. This has proved of valuable assistance in the rehabilitation of a number of the young women. We are indebted to the members of the W.C.T.U., Miss Nicholls, and the Methodist Girls' Bible Class for their continued interest in arranging concert programmes. Educational and entertaining pictures have also been screened and were much appreciated. A plentiful supply of books has been provided by the National Library Service, which, together with the institution library and gifts of magazines from friends, provides adequate reading-material for the varied needs of the inmates. Religious services are conducted every Sunday morning, and individual visits are made at regular intervals by the representatives of various denominations. Miss Ellison, Maori Welfare Officer, merits our gratitude for her special interest in the Maori inmates, her help in arranging employment and escorting these to their homes have been of valuable assistance. The Salvation Army and W.C.T.U. members provided Christmas and New Year parties, and we are indebted to many friends for donations towards the Christmas and recreation funds. In conclusion, I wish to thank the staff and clerical officer for their co-operation during the year.

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Auckland Prison (Superintendent: Mr. J. J. H. Lauder) I have the honour to submit my annual report on the working of this institution for the year ended 31st December, 1948. At the commencement of the year there were '337 males and 12 females in custody. During the year 1,093 males and 60 females were received and 1,165 males and 62 females were discharged. There were 140 males and 3 females received into prison as second offenders during the year. The conduct generally of the prisoners has' been good, with the exception of a disturbance by a number of prisoners, both male and female, in February. Two of the female ringleaders were transferred —one to Addington Prison and the other to the Auckland Mental Hospital. The disturbance actually commenced in the female division on account of the women calling out to the male prisoners, who were in sympathy with them. Since this disturbance quietened down there has been no repetition. There were 3 escapes during the year. One escaped at 3 p.m. on 17th February, 1948, from the prison grounds, and was recaptured twenty minutes later by two police and a prison officer. Two escaped from the quarry with the aid of the prison truck on 30th September, 1948, and both were recaptured and returned to Auckland Prison on Bth October, 1948. Two others escaped from the train while being escorted to Auckland from Hautu and Rangipo on 29th June, 1948. The Hautu prisoner was recaptured and returned to Auckland on 15th September, 1948, and the one from Rangipo on Ist July, 1948. The health of the prisoners generally has been very good and there has not been any general epidemics. The daily average sick has been 8-40 males and 0-21 females. There were 11 males and 2 females admitted to -the public hospital during the year. There were 7 males and 2 females transferred to the mental hospital. One male was transferred back to prison after being an inmate at the mental hospital for thirteen months. The 2 women who were transferred were responsible for a great deal of trouble and unrest at this institution. At this stage I wish to place on record the valuable assistance given by the mental hospital medical staff for their willing co-operation at all times by making examinations during the year for the Courts and also in giving advice and attention to inmates of this institution. The prison quarry has not been working at high pressure as far as the crusher is concerned. The sale of crushed blue metal has been very poor, the demand appearing to be for grades that do not come within our scope, but, at the same time, the prisoners have been fully employed when staff permitted, and the spa wis have been stacked in the quarry for use at a later date. From February to the middle of July the quarry was idle owing to staff shortage, and also while major repairs were carried out on the DavyPaxman boiler. The boot-factory continues to work at full capacity manufacturing prison and mentalhospital footwear and leather satchels for the Post and Telegraph Department. In addition, a large number of repairs have been carried out. The tailoring department has maintained its usual output, manufacturing large quantities of mental-hospital clothing, as well as requirements for our prison institutions. We have experienced some difficulty in receiving material for officers' uniforms, but these are expected at an early date. For other Government Departments 1,332 office-chair cushions were made up and 3,263 pairs of socks were manufactured and 974 pairs of socks refooted. In the repair branch of the shop 15,509 mail and parcel bags were repaired. Tinsmithing has also been carried on, supplying other prison institutions with their requirements. In this class of work, material for manufacture has been very difficult to purchase and has held up the output.

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11l the carpenter's shop a number of cabinets were manufactured for Government Departments, and maintenance for the local Courts has been carried out as required. A large number of filing-cabinets were manufactured for the Magistrate's Court. A number of the sanitary pans have been replaced. In the female division the cells have been relined, strengthened, and painted. One officer's cottage has been completed and occupied in the Prison Reserve, Boston Road, while two other cottages are partly erected at Clive Road, and the sites for four others have been marked out. Progress with the foundations has been slow on account of the solid rock formations. The laundering section has laundered a large number of blankets for the Army and Air Force, also blankets and towels, &c., for the Central Police-station. For laundry and institutional work, 1,188 bars of soap were manufactured. Owing to the difficulty in obtaining fat and caustic soda, the usual quantity of soap has not been manufactured. The manufacture of tobacco has been satisfactory and institutional requirements have been supplied as required. The greater portion of the leaf used was grown at Waikeria Borstal Institution. The leaf purchased from Wills and Co. is of a very light grade and used only for blending purposes and breaking down the strength of the Waikeria leaf. The cultivation of the prison garden has resulted in the production of a large quantity of vegetables used at this institution. We have only a limited amount of garden, and with the erection of a cottage and a single officer's cottage the space for the garden is considerably reduced. On account of the reduced area we have had to fall back on Waikeria institution and on the open market for our supplies. The food supplied to the inmates of this institution has been of excellent quality and has been up to the contract conditions. All bread consumed has been made in the prison bakehouse, with the exception of a short period while the oven was receiving major repairs. The bread is of a high standard and would compare favourably with any baked outside. The institutional school has been continued during the year under the direction of Dr. Dale, with the assistance of Mr. Warner, and Deputy Principal Warder Carson, of the prison staff. A large number of the inmates have also been taking various courses with the Education Department's Correspondence School, and a number have received very good reports from their teachers. This is a splendid idea, as it keeps a prisoner's mind fully occupied and assists in giving a brighter outlook on life. Another bright aspect is the large number of up-to-date books received on loan from the Country Library Service, Wellington. These books are changed at three-monthly periods and are much appreciated by the inmates. Owing to the physical-drill instructor being absent through sickness, these classes have not been carried out. The various social organizations have again been very considerate in supplying Christmas cheer in the way of cake, tobacco, and sweets, and this is greatly appreciated by all prisoners. Apart from the above, the Society of Friends has managed to bring a bunch of flowers each Sunday throughout the year for the women inmates. The spiritual welfare of the prisoners has been looked after by the various denominations, including the Maori Methodist, who has again been able to take up this work. With regard to the female division, Mrs. Webster and her assistant from the Red Cross Society have conducted classes weekly for the benefit of the inmates. The conduct of the staff generally has been satisfactory and a satisfactory standard of discipline has been maintained under adverse conditions, owing to the frequent changes of new staff, who do not all settle to this class of employment. In the industrial activities the officers responsible have maintained a satisfactory standard of industry. The clerical and store staff have dealt with their portion of institutional matters in an efficient manner.

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Hautu Prison (Officer in Charge : Mr. A. Banks) At the commencement of the year there were 41 men in custody. During the year -48 men were received, 31 discharged, and 14 transferred to other institutions, leaving ;39 in custody at the end of the year. The health of the men was excellent, there being only 11 men ill over forty-eight hours during the year. One man underwent an operation for hernia at the Eaetihi Hospital, and 1 man was admitted to the same institution suffering from a septic hand. The medical officer visited the prison regularly, and every man complaining of illness received a thorough medical examination. Arrangements were made with Mr. K. W. Beresford, Dental Surgeon, Taumarunui, to attend to men requiring dental treatment. The spiritual welfare of the men was attended to by Father De Bree, Waihi, Reverend K. A. L. Mountjoy, Presbyterian Minister, Taupo, and Mr. H. L. Forlong, of Piriaka. Our thanks are due to the Christchurch Branch of the Howard League for Christmas cake supplied, and to the congregation of the Taupo Presbyterian Church for gifts to the men at Christmas. The Church of Christ (Scientist) continued to send reading-matter throughout the year. The prison garden yielded a plentiful and varied supply of vegetables throughout the period. Surplus vegetables wex ! e sold to local storekeepers. A crop of 131 tons of hay was baled, and 200 acres of swedes and turnips grown for livestock. The potato crop was not so good as in former years, but there was sufficient to meet the requirements of the prison during the year. All bread for rations was manufactured in the prison bakery and was of good -quality. Beef and mutton was supplied from the prison farm. The rabbit pest was dealt with by poisoning and trapping; 16,400 skins were marketed. The dairy industry was carried on successfully. A new cow-shed and dairy are in ■course of erection, and modern machinery will be installed. The cream was supplied to the Kaitieke Co-operative Dairy Co., Ltd., and the skim-milk fed to pigs. The rearing of pigs was continued ; 244 weaners were transferred to other institutions, and 12 sold locally. Surplus vegetables from the prison garden and trapped rabbits were used as pig-feed. Sheep-raising was carried on with fair results ; 466 ewes and 788 lambs were sold. The wool-clip totalled 62 bales. More accommodation for married officers is being provided. One cottage was removed to the main road and completely renovated, and arrangements are being made to have another cottage shifted from the defaulters' camp to another site. It is regretted that during the year Mr. T. Banks, who was officer in charge for many years, retired from the service owing to ill health. In conclusion, I wish to thank the officers for their co-operation and loyalty. Napier Prison (Superintendent: Mr. A. A. Douglas) I have the honour to submit my report on the working of this prison for the year ■ended 31st December, 1948. At the beginning of the year there were 20 males in custody. During the year admissions totalled 151 males and 6 females, leaving in custody at the end of the year 22 males. The health of the prisoners, on the whole, has been satisfactory. There were 2 prisoners admitted to the Napier Public Hospital during the year.

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Extensive repairs have been carried out on the prison during the year. The lighthouse which has stood on the site for many years has been successfully dismantled for theMarine Department. Divine services were conducted by the following denominations during the year Gospel Hall, Church of England, Methodist, Presbyterian, Baptist, Congregational,. Roman Catholic, Maori service, and the Salvation Army band. All services were well attended. Concert parties visited the prison on eighteen occasions during the year and moving pictures have been screened on seven occasions. I have conveyed to the sponsers of theseprogrammes the Department's thanks. The prisoners were also permitted to listen-in daily to suitable radio programmes. There were no escapes during the year. The output and sales from the quarry for the year has been maintained. The output from the garden has shown an improvement on the previous year, in spite of the poor prices received at auction. The Rose Clove carnations are doing well,, and since April over 500 dozen have been marketed at a satisfactory price. There has been a plentiful supply of all classes of vegetables for the general use of the prison. The conduct of the prisoners has been good, there being no offences committed during the year. I desire to express my thanks to the staff for their loyal co-operation during the year.. New Plymouth Prison (Superintendent: Mr. J. Dow) I have the honour to submit mv annual report for the year ended 31st December,.. 1948. There were 47 male prisoners in custody at the beginning of the year. During theyear 116 male prisoners were received, whilst 111 were discharged or otherwise disposed of, leaving 52 in custody at the end of the year. There was 1 escape, and 1 prisoner was sentenced for committing an aggravated assault on a prison officer. The conduct of the remainder has been good. The health of the prisoners generally has been good. Two were admitted to thepublic hospital for minor operations, and 1 for observation. In each case the period in hospital was of short duration. The Taranaki mobile x-ray unit visited the prison, during the year, when most of the inmates were x-rayed, and no serious cases of chest complaint detected as a result. Dr. Allen visited the prison weekly and also when called in a case of emergency. The garden continues to absorb most of the labour. The growing of vegetable plants for sale is still being carried on. Vegetables are grown all the year round to meet our own requirements, and the surplus is disposed of to the public hospital, New Plymouth High School hostels, and in the open market. The potato crop met our requirements for seven months. The pig industry has again been very successful, and there is a local demand for all that can be produced. The quarry industry is being worked on a small scale, and provides employment for the inmates who require strict supervision. The purchase of cows for rations has been continued through the Farmers' Cooperative Association. The killing is done on the premises, and all meat is inspected by the Meat Inspector before being issued. We are fortunate at present in having a good cook who provides good meals at all times. We are also fortunate in having a good baker, who has learned the trade while* in prison, and makes excellent bread.

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- Social activities have been continued through the year. A class on home nursing -and one on first aid was conducted by the Red Cross Society, and the results of examinations in both classes was highly satisfactory. I would like to express my thanks and .appreciation to the Red Cross Society for providing the instructors, and to Dr. A. G. Stewart, of the New Plymouth Hospital, for the time he has devoted to coming to the prison to give lectures. A large number of prisoners have been interested in occupational hobbies in their spare time by way of rugmaking, weaving, flow r ermaking, drawing, tapestry, and other handwork, all these hobbies requiring care and concentration. An interesting hobby with a utilitarian purpose is the making of radiosonde parachutes for the Meteorological Service. The local residents continue to be interested in the welfare of the men by way of concerts, &c., which are much appreciated. 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 also received from the Mayor of New Plymouth, and other local residents and organizations. The spiritual welfare of the men has been attended to by the ministers of the various ►denominations and other religious workers. Holy communion for the Anglicans and mass for the Roman Catholics is celebrated at regular intervals. Mr. Woodward, S.M., and Messrs. Weston and Mcol, Visiting Justices, paid periodical -visits during the year, and continue to be interested in the men. The staff have carried out their duties in a satisfactory manner. Paparua Prison (Superintendent: Mr. C. E. Harrington) I have the honour to submit the annual report on this institution for the year ended 31st December, 1948. On the Ist January, 1948, there were in custody 129 male prisoners. During the year the receptions totalled 589, while 581 were discharged or otherwise disposed of, thus leaving a total of 137 prisoners in custody as at the 31st December, 1948. The health of the prisoners during the past year has been generally satisfactory, -and an adequate medical service has been maintained under the control of Dr. A. C. Thomson. Eight prisoners were admitted to the local public hospital for treatment, while 1 prisoner was transferred to the Sunnyside Mental Hospital. Two prisoners received treatment for venereal disease. No deaths occurred in the prison during the year. A satisfactory standard of cleanliness and sanitation has been maintained, and no outbreaks of an epidemic nature have occurred. The services of mental specialists have been availed of on a number of occasions and their help and advice has been of great assistance in certain cases. The supplies for prisoners' rations have been of excellent quality, and adequate •quantities of potatoes and vegetables were grown on .the property. Beef for rations was killed on the place, and this was supplemented by the purchase of mutton from a local freezing-works. All of our bread was produced in the institution bakery. The conduct of prisoners throughout the year has been generally satisfactory, and -this also applied to their industry. There was the usual crop of infringements against the prison regulations, in which 50 offences were committed by 36 individuals. There -were no escapes or attempted escapes during the past year.

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Entertainments for prisoners were provided on twelve occasions by the Returned Services' Association, the Salvation Army, the Addington Male Voice Choir, and theRoyal Christchurch Musical Society. The departmental pictures were displayed on six occasions, and a series of thirteen lectures were provided by the Workers' Educational Association. These entertainments were greatly appreciated by the inmates, and I am indebted to the various organizations for the interest they have shown in this regard. The institution school was conducted by Mr. A. W. Kibblewhite. General repair work has been carried out to the staff residences, also the completion of the new cottage taken over from the Army Department at Addington Reformatory. Repair work has also been carried out at the Addington Reformatory. The inside roof" of the east wing has been lined with Pinex board, and this completes the repair of thiswing. Work on the new blacksmith-shop is proceeding very satisfactorily, but we are still held up with several articles of building-material, and this building will be in use early in April. The quarrying industry has been kept working at full capacity and there is still demand for crushed metal. The new plant is taking shape. The bins have been erected, and we are waiting for the delivery of the crushing plant from England, which is duefor delivery in April or early May. With the stock-piling of oversize metal the saleshave dropped, but it is anticipated that when the new plant is in working-order there should be a considerable improvement in the sale of crushed metal. The blockmaking industry is at a standstill owing to the shortage of reinforcingsteel and cement, and when these lines are available the industry will be revived again. In the garden industry every effort has had to be made to maintain the supply of vegetables for ration purposes. The abnormally dry spring and summer retarded production considerably, and consequently there was only a very small portion of thegarden produce available for sale in the local market. The poultry industry was carried on with marked success. Egg-production for the year totalled 7,560 dozen, and the cash return from the sale of eggs has been very good indeed. The results from the chick-hatching operations were most gratifying, and 518 pullets were raised to augment the flock of laying birds. Also, over 600 cockerels were fattened, and these, together with hens culled from the flock, brought remunerative prices on the Christchurch market. The farming section, under the direction of Mr. B. J. S. Wilson, has experienced an exceptionally disappointing year, solely by reason of the abnormally dry seasons, with an absence of any really beneficial rainfall at critical periods. As a result, the cropping, returns are in the main very poor, and in some cases, as with the hay crop, practically a failure. There has also been a marked deterioration in the pasture paddocks. The returns from the sheep section are quite satisfactory under the circumstances. The lambing percentage was 112. Lambs fattened for the export trade averaged out a little lighter than usual, and owing to the shortage of fodder it became necessary at the latterend of the season to dispose of 393 lambs as stores. The wool-clip of 42 bales average £6O per bale. The tractor and the horse teams have given satisfactory service in the cultivation work on the farm. The small dairy herd maintained here has been sufficient to meet our requirements, with a fairly good surplus of cream which has been supplied to a local dairy factory. Good results have also been achieved in the pig section. The timber plantation is coming along very well, and good growth is now evident in those trees planted out in the early stages of the work. In conclusion, I wish to express my appreciation for the co-operation of the staff in carrying out work of the institution during the past year. The services so freely given by the Visiting Justices to the prison have been much appreciated.

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Rangipo Prison (Officer in Charge : Mr. E. J. Craig) I beg to submit my annual report for the year ended 31st December, 1948. At the commencement of the year there were 43 males in custody. During the year 39 prisoners were received, 11 were transferred to other prisons, and 37 were discharged, leaving 34 prisoners in custody at the end of the year. The medical officer, Dr. L. E. Jordan, visited the prison regularly during the year, and the general health of the prisoners was very good. One prisoner was admitted to hospital for a minor operation and later discharged. There were no serious cases of illness amongst the prisoners. Dental work for the prisoners was attended to in the early part of the year by Mr. R. B. Davies, of Raetihi, and latterly by Mr. R. Beresford, of Taumarunui. I have to record my appreciation of the conscientious manner in which these gentlemen attended to the health of the prisoners throughout the year. The spiritual welfare of the prisoners was looked after by Messrs. H. L. Forlong, K. A. Mountjoy, C. J. Forlong, R. D. Houghton, and Sister Edith, who held services at the prison during the year. Thanks are again due to the Christchurch branch of the Howard League for Penal Reform for the excellent cake supplied to the men at Christmas-time, to the ChristmasLetters to Prisoners Society, 5 Tudor Road, Upper Norwood, London, for Christmasletters sent to all the prisoners, and to the Church of Christ (Scientist) for the very excellent reading-material supplied to the men during the year. The principal work during the year on the farm consisted of the maintenance of the permanent pastures, draining, and fencing. It must, however, be recorded with regret that some of the outlying paddocks have deteriorated and scrub and fern have got away. Posts and battens for the subdivision of paddocks were obtained from the bush, and several chains of new fences were erected. Crops sown included 110 acres of swedes and turnips for winter feed. Sheep and cattle all wintered well, and lambing losses were lighter than usual. A good wool-crop was taken, and 39 bales were sold. A very fair crop of hay was harvested. Sales of lambs and store cattle during the year realized good prices. Permanent pastures were all harrowed and top-dressed during the year. The war against the rabbit pest was prosecuted energetically during the year, trapping and poisoning being the chief means of extermination used. Beef and mutton for rations were killed on the farm, and a good variety of vegetables, both green and root crops, was supplied for rations from the prison gardens. My thanks are due to the staff, who carried out their duties in a satisfactory manner. Waikune Prison (Roadmaking Camp), Erua (Officer in Charge : Mr. J. G. Quill) I have the honour to submit my annual report for the vear ended 31st December, 1948! At the commencement of the year there were in custody 67 prisoners, and 98 were received during the year. During the year the discharges were 10 on remission and 57 on probationary licence, and 24 prisoners were transferred to other institutions ; also, 2 prisoners died. The number of prisoners in custody at the end of the year was 63. The greatest number of prisoners in detention at any time was 90 and the least 55, the daily average being 68-27. Fourteen prisoners escaped from Waikune during the year, and of these 5 were prisoners in transit to Rangipo and Hautu. Apart from one instance where a prisoner appears to have escaped because of domestic worries, all other escapes seem to have been committed in a spirit of deliberate wantonness. In each case it was not long before the offenders were apprehended and returned to custody.

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The general health of all prisoners was excellent throughout the year. It is with regret that I record the deaths of 2 prisoners, each being the result of unavoidable accidents at work. Six prisoners received treatment in the Raetihi Public Hospital for minor ailments and all returned completely recovered from the troubles which necessitated their admission to hospital. The medical officer, Dr. L. E. Jordan, was in regular attendance at the prison throughout the year, and carried out his duties in a very conscientious manner. As required, trips were made to the medical officer's surgery at Ohakune and Raetihi, while the dental cares of the prisoners were capably attended to by the dentist, Mr. Davies, of Raetihi, at his surgery there. ' Religious services were conducted at the institution at frequent intervals by the following: Rev. Father Heavey (Catholic), Rev. Hartley (Church of England), and Messrs. H. L. and H. G. Forlong (Plymouth Brethren). I desire to record my deep appreciation to the Christchurch branch of the Howard League for Penal Reform for providing their usual fine Christmas cake for the inmates at this institution, to the First Church of Christ for their generosity in sending along regular supplies of literature for the prisoners, and to the branch of the Prison Mission, London, which each year provides a very inspiring Christmas letter for each inmate. The motion pictures provided by the departmental projectionist at intervals throughout the year were greatly enjoyed by the prisoners, and the programmes, without exception, were particularly good. The garden again provided vegetables for ration purposes. Climatic conditions here are very severe, and it is a definite problem to grow a variety of vegetables which will provide for 70 or 80 men throughout the year, but fresh vegetables, including plenty of greens, have been issued for rations. We continued to kill our own beef for rations. Excellent bread has been baked throughout the year for the institution, and the Rangipo Prison Camp has also been supplied. During the Christmas period the prisoners spent their leisure time in games, and several sports gatherings of an impromptu nature provided them with considerable •enjoyment. The usual Christmas concert was well organized, and some of the talent displayed was very good. The whole farm is now in grass and the pastures are in excellent condition. I think that this year's hay crop will probably be the heaviest we have ever harvested. This year's turnips, chou moellier, and white carrots were sown on the tract of land over the eastern farm boundary, but hares and deer played havoc with them. The dairy herd did very well and we have continued to supply cream to the Kaitieke Dairy Factory Co. During the year we maintained sixty miles of main highways and operated three crushing plants at Makatote, Whakapapanui, and at Whakapapaiti. The quarry at Makatote has a very large face of conglomerate and rock, the actual height of the face being 55 ft. after stripping. In the quarries at Whakapapanui and Whakapapaiti it is necessary to win the metal from two river-beds, and considering that, apart from the actual crushers and lorries, no modern mechanical machines are available for procuring the rock, the results of the year's operations—over 6,000 yards of metal, all of it clean —can be considered satisfactory, although, with the demand for clean metal only, and the present costs of stores and tools, it has been found that production costs are very high. In addition to maintaining the Waimarino-Ohakune, National ParkOio, National Park - Taupo, and Bruce Main Highways, we have provided metal for numerous sawmillers and contractors in the district, and also for the two local County Councils. Our motor fleet, comprising nine lorries and two cars, was in constant use throughout the year. We carried out all transport for the Rangipo and Hautu Camps, and assisted the Chateau Tongariro with their cartage. In conclusion, I desire to thank the staff for their loyal co-operation throughout the year.

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Wanganui Prison (Gaoler : Mr. A. Gamble) At the commencement of the year there were 19 males in custody. During the year 95 males and 3 females were received into custody, 92 males and 3 females were discharged, and 1 male (remand prisoner) escaped from custody and was later recaptured, leaving at the end of the year a total of 22 males in custody. The main employment of the inmates is the growing of vegetables, and a plentiful supply for the institution has been maintained throughout the year. The surplus to requirements has been sold at the auction-mart. The older and more feeble inmates are employed inside the prison as cleaners and mending prison clothing. This class of occupation, being more suitable to their physical state, also permits them to have openair exercise, in the yards. Painting of the prison and prison cottages have been carried out by prison labour during, the year, but is not yet completed. The health of the inmates has been good, considering the age and class of inmates detained at this prison, many of whom on admission are suffering from disabilities of some kind. The medical officer, Dr. A. M. Earle, visits the institution once a week, and is always on call whenever the occasion arises. The conduct of the prisoners during the year was satisfactory. The quality of food supplied to the prison by the various firms under departmental contract has been very satisfactory throughout the year. Entertainment by way of educational pictures has been provided by the Department once a month. The following religious bodies have visited the prison as usual and conducted church services : Church of Christ, Presbyterian, Roman Catholic, and Salvation Army, also the band. On Christmas Day a party from the congregation of the Church of Christ entertained the inmates to a sacred song and service programme, concluding with a very fine Christmas treat by way of fruit, sweets, cake, and sandwiches, such gifts being greatly appreciated by the inmates. The St. Vincent de Paul Society provided the inmates with a gift of cigarettes and pipe tobacco. Mr. Rogers, Visiting Justice, also made a donation of cake and cigarettes to be distributed on New Year's Day. Superintendent of Parks and Reserves for the City Council, Mr. C. Cox, also supplied the institution with flower plants. In conclusion, I desire to thank the staff for their co-operation. Wellington Prison (Superintendent: Mr. P. McGrath) I have the honour to submit my annual report for the year ended 31st December, 1948. At the commencement of the year there were 90 males in custody. During the year 904 males were received, whilst 915 were discharged or otherwise disposed of, leaving in prison on the night of 31st December, 1948, 79 males. The prison medical officer, Dr. Douglas Brown, F.R.C.S., has visited the prison regularly each week examining new admissions, &c. The greatest number of cases of sickness at any one time was 3, and during the year 9 males were sent as admissions to hospital. During the year 6 males were received suffering from venereal disease, and all these cases were gonorrhoea. All cases were treated in the prison clinic, and blood tests.

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in 2 cases were taken at the Y.D. clinic at Wellington Hospital - there were 110 admissions to hospital. Dental attention has been again carried out by Mr. W. P. Sommerville, J.P., who has provided dentures, fillings, &c., whenever required. Of the 25 breaches of the regulations committed during the year covering 23 individuals dealt with, 9 were dealt with by the Visiting Justices and 16 by myself, the latter being of a minor nature and requiring disciplinary correction. The dairy herd has been kept in excellent condition and the production has been up to previous years. Supplies of milk and butter for prison rations have been maintained, as well as the daily milk-supplies to local staff. Surplus butter has been sold on the local market. An excellent crop of hay has again been harvested this year for winter feeding. In the pig-raising industry 152 baconers were fattened and sold. Weaners transferred in from other institutions numbered 286, and 61 of these were sold to Wi Tako Prison. General maintenance of the prison buildings was carried out during the year"; new floors have been put down in the prison kitchen and bakehouse. The new garage has been erected at the rear of the prison and consists of two garages for the motor van and truck, blacksmith-shop, also a storeroom for loose tools, &c. The work of extending the eaves of the main institutional buildings is now under way and should be finished very shortly. Other proposed work is the removal of the old steel window-sashes and replacing same with wooden frames. Repairs and general maintenance of cottages, &c., have been carried out. At the old Borstal buildings at Point Halswell a further two flats with all separate conveniences have been completed and occupied. It is proposed to erect a further two flats. The manufacture of office furniture for Head Office, Magistrates' and Supreme Courts, Arohata Borstal Institution, &c., has been completed during the year. The dietary scale has again been well maintained and the prison bakehouse continues to manufacture a good loaf of bread. Bread has also been supplied to the Arohata Borstal Institution and local staff. A regular supply of fresh vegetables has been supplied from our vegetable garden. The printing industry continues to furnish very satisfactory results, and, in spite of the restrictions on the supply of paper, stocks of institutional forms, &c., have been maintained. Laundering for State Departments has been carried out during the period. At Arohata Borstal Farm one officer and fourteen men from this institution have been regularly employed on general farm work. The work in the prison nursery continues to give good results. During the year 8,726 trees were sent out on behalf of the Wellington Beautifying Society for planting on Arbour Day, &c. Christmas cheer was again provided by the various organizations, including the Tory Street Mission, Wellington City Mission, Wellington branch of the Howard League for Penal Reform, who sent gifts of cake, tobacco, &c. Gifts of tobacco were also received from the Controller-General of Prisons. The Country Library Service has maintained a regular supply of good books and there has also been a good demand for books from the prison library. Sound films of a good standard were exhibited at regular intervals during the year. Throughout the year Church services have been held each week, and to the ministers of the Anglican, Presbyterian, and other Protestant Churches, Rev. Harry Squires of the Wellington City Mission, and Fathers Uhlenberg and Ward, members of the St. Vincent de Paul Society, also the 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 fine co-operation. Their conduct has at all times been excellent and the routine of the prison has been carried out in a satisfactory manner.

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Wi Tako Prison, Heretaunga (Superintendent: Mr. K. C. Haywood) There were 58 prisoners confined in this prison at the beginning of the year, 230 were received during the year, and 239 were discharged, leaving 49 in prison on the night of the 31st December. Three prisoners were admitted to hospital during the year. Apart from these, the health of the men was reasonably 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 quite good. There were 25 men dealt with for prison offences, 14 of whom were dealt with by the Visiting Justices and the remainder by the Superintendent. Two enjoyable days' cricket were enjoyed on Labour Day and Boxing Day, and sweets and drinks were donated by the Y.M.C.A. in camp. The Hutt Valley physical Culture and Wrestling Club paid a visit to the prison one evening and gave an excellent display of wrestling, physical-culture exercises, and weight-lifting. During the year, motion pictures were screened by the departmental projectionist and the late Mr. Curl of the Tory Street Mission. As usual, there is a religious service held at the prison each Sunday, the. various religious bodies taking turn in conducting their own service. The Salvation Army Band now visits the prison on a Sunday afternoon in each month and gives a recital of hymns. During the year, 2 prisoners escaped from custody, but both were apprehended. Christmas gifts of cake and fruit were received from the Upper Hutt Mission and the Howard LeagueExtensive repair work has been carried out on seven of the staff cottages. All the cottages were painted and papered throughout. The condition of the cottages now is such that they will not require any major work to be done to them for a number of years. Minor repairs have been carried out on the prison buildings. A small room has been built on to one of the verandas for the men working long hours for use as a dining and recreation room. All the painting of the interior has been completed, and the painting of the exterior is well under way. Four new piggeries of sufficient size to accommodate 200 pigs were erected during the year. Two of these buildings were built in all concrete and the other two were built with iron lined with timber. The floor in all the building was put down in coke breeze. Recently a rather good boar was purchased for this prison, and six sows have been picked out of our own sties for breeding purposes. It is hoped that from now on we will be able to breed a fair percentage of our own pigs for fattening. As usual, a very good return was received from the sale of baconer pigs. It is hoped to increase the dairy herd by another fifteen to twenty cows in the near future. Plans have been drawn up for the erecting of the new dairy which it is hoped will be commenced in the New Year. If everything goes according to plan, the new dairy will probably be in use by April, 1949. A very satisfactory return was received for the sale of milk to the Wellington Dairy Farmers Co-operative Association last year. A very good percentage of lambs were born on the farm this year and a very pleasing cheque was received for the sale of wool. A large area of land has been cleared of rushes and sown with mangolds, swedes, and turnips. Twelve acres of potatoes were sown, but unfortunately 4 acres rotted in the ground after being covered with flood-water for some days. Twenty-seven acres of land have been tilled and sown down in permanent pastures. A very pleasing return was made from the sale of garden produce last year, while it is anticipated that an even better return will be made for 1949, as plans are being made to extend the garden area.

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A good deal of time has been spent in the repairing of existing fences and the erecting of new ones. A large area of the rifle range has been cleared of rushes. The old implement-shed has been dismantled and converted into stables and is now erected near the dairy. A new tractor wag purchased for the prison during December, and although it was used for only two or three weeks in 1948, it proved to be a wonderful asset. A considerable amount of work was done for the Army Department during the year in the form of clearing gorse, &c., from around the magazine area, chipping weeds from around the military camp, and the laying-out of recreation-grounds. As usual, the meat, bread, vegetables, and milk required for the prison has been produced on the property, and I am pleased to say has all been of a very high standard. In conclusion, I would like to thank the staff for their very loyal co-operation throughout the year. Arohata Borstal Institution (Superintendent: Miss D. Fairweather) At the commencement of the year there were 18 Borstal inmates in custody in the institution. During the year 15 were admitted and 23 discharged or otherwise dealt with, leaving 10 inmates at December, 1948. Of the 23 discharged, 19 were released on licence, 1 on the completion of her sentence after the cancellation of her probationary licence, and 3 transferred to other institutions. Of those transferred, 2 had previously served sentences in the Borstal, and on account of demoralizing influence and conduct all proved unsuitable for further Borstal training. The greatest number in custody was 19 and the least 9, with a daily average of 13*3. In the reformatory section there were no inmates on Ist January, 1948, but 27 were received during the year and 25 discharged, leaving 2 in custody at the close of the year. Of those discharged, 13 were handed to the police, 4 released on the expiration or sentence, 1 transferred to the mental hospital, 1 transferred to Addington Reformatory and 6 debtors, 5 of whom were discharged on payment of debt and the other on completion of her sentence. The greatest number in custody was 4. Of the 15 Borstal admissions, there was only 1 first offender, the majority having some previous convictions, and in some cases having received probation. Seven were committed for theft, 1 for false pretences, 1 for being idle and disorderly, 3 for breach of probation, and 3 were received from the Burwood Training Centre, where they had proved unamenable to discipline and control. On admission a case-history of each girl is prepared, and it provides an enlightening insight into the circumstances and conditions which have resulted in her detention. With one exception, all those admitted had been under the care of the Child Welfare Department, a fact which reflects the unsatisfactory home conditions that must have prevailed in their earlier formative years, when the inculcation of right standards of conduct is all-important. The absence of parental affection and understanding, the lack of harmony, stability, and security in the home, where moral standards are frequently low and there is a complete lack of social responsibility or of any spiritual values —all these constitute a serious loss to an adolescent. Against such a background it is small wonder there are cases of undesirable behaviour and misconduct to be dealt with. Eight of the inmates admitted were Maoris who, freed from family and tribal control, had found difficulty in adjusting themselves to city demands after country life, in securing suitable accommodation, and in employing constructively their leisure hours. None had any connection with clubs or sports organizations that would have provided opportunity for the development of their social capacity.

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Most of the inmates have a. record of indifferent work habits, having had frequent changes of employment, choosing usually the job offering most money without any regard for the future—the gratification of the moment being the limit of their mental horizon. A disquieting fact is the increasing number amongst both Maori and pakeha admissions of those with little mental or intellectual capacity. These naturally constitute a special problen) and will in many cases require the guidance and help of institutional care if they are to be protected from further trouble. Each girl on admission has received psychiatric examination by Dr. K. R. Stallworthy, of the Porirua Mental Hospital, and his reports are of value and a guide i* determining the best method of treatment to be followed in each individual case. The medical officer, Dr. Douglas Brown, examined each inmate, and Sister Christian, of the Wellington Hospital, conducted all tests for V.D., and treatment wherever required was promptly carried out. Special attention has always been given to dental requirements, and Mr. W. P. Sommerville has continued to serve the institution by doing all the necessary work of extractions, fillings, and dentures. The health of the inmates has been very satisfactory throughout the year, there being only 2 admissions to public hospital—one for operative treatment and the other for mental observation for a period of two months. There were 2 admissions to Bethany Maternity Hospital, each case receiving regular attention at the ante-natal clinic. There was no cases of Y.D. Special attention has been given the planning and preparation of meals, and there has besn available from the farm a splendid variety of . fresh vegetables and an adequate supply of milk. The result of the physical and mental care given the inmates is in all cases reflected in their increased fitness and vitality, and this should be a helpful factor in their rehabilitation after release. With the aim of Borstal reformation in view, a balanced programme of work, education, and recreation has been planned, with due emphasis on the preparation for homelife. Training in laundry work, gardening, sewing, cooking, and domestic duties has been provided, and with the experience gained here a girl should be qualified to take up some employment when released. In addition to the usual work of the institution, regular laundry contracts for several Departments have been carried out, and large orders for dresses, sheets, and other garments for Porirua Mental Hospital have been executed in the sewing-room. Instruction in cooking has been provided, and under supervision the •girls are responsible for the preparation and serving of meals. An important part of the programme has been the encouragement of leisure-time activities, and the girls have been taught all types of handcraft, at which several display outstanding talent. Twelve woollen scarves were knitted and forwarded to CORSO. Social activities and recreation have their distinct value, and time has been devoted to singing, dancing, and in the case of the Maori girls, to their own songs and poi dances. Each month programmes of interesting and educational pictures have been and this form of entertainment has been much appreciated. In encouraging the girls to arrange their own concerts some good talent has been discovered. The National Library Service has continued to supply tri-monthly a splendid collection of books, and these, in addition to the institution library, provide suitable readingmatter for the girls with their varying tastes. A number of magazines are provided by the Department, and the supply is augmented through the generosity and interest of several friends who regularly forward up-to-date journals. Each Sunday regular religious services arranged by the Minister's Association have been held, and instruction classes have been conducted weekly by the Anglican minister (Rev. P. Wiltshire) and the Catholic priest (Father McGrrath) for the members of their respective Churches. The Catholic Sisters of Mercy also attend fortnightly for religious instruction and guidance.

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One of the happy functions arranged during Christmas was an afternoon party provided by the Salvation Army, the music, gifts, and refreshments being greatly appreciated. Our thanks are also due to the members of the Borstal Association, the Borstal Committee, the Howard League for Penal Reform, and the Catholic sisters for their gifts, which provided many " extras " for the Christmas and New Year fare. Picnics and outings on the hills at the back of the farm are always popular and out-of-door activities are arranged whenever possible. Monthly visits were made by the members of the Borstal Committee and fortnightly visits by the Women's Borstal Association, and to all these members for their continued interest over a period of years, and for their practical help, thanks are expressed. The Borstal Association has given valuable service in providing material and garments with which the girls are outfitted before leaving the institution, no one being released without adequate equipment. Whilst the active work of rehabilitation by the institution ceases on the girl's release, contacts are maintained both with the girl and the associate members and Maori Welfare Officers under whose care and supervision they are placed, and it is encouraging to find that the majority, despite adverse conditions, settle down satisfactorily. The experiment of placing the Maori girls under the guidance of their own Welfare Officers has proved worth while, and their co-operation, as well as that of all the Associate members, in assisting the girls over the critical period of adjustment to normal life has been much appreciated. There have been seven additions to the staff during the year, but these have been offset by the resignations of six, some of whom accepted positions in other Departments, and others found the work too exacting and uncongenial. Thanks and appreciation are expressed to the members of the staff for their loyal service and co-operation throughout the year. Invercargill Borstal Institution (Superintendent: Mr. H. C. Mathew) Statistics. —On Ist January, 1948, there were 106 Borstal inmates in custody. During the year 82 were received and 83 discharged or released on licence, leaving 105 in custody on 31st December. The daily average over the year was 99*4, the greatest number in custody at any one time being 108 and the least 91. There has been a marked downward trend in admissions since 1943, in which year 155 inmates were received, as against 82 for this year. In the reformatory section there were 7 males in custody on Ist January. During the year 94 males were received and 97 discharged or transferred to other prisons or reformatories, leaving 4 males in custody at the end of the year. The daily average was 7-6, the greatest number being 15 and the least 2. No females were admitted during the year. Health. —Health has been good on the whole, with minor illnesses and injuries at the head of the list of treatments. There are always, however, a certain number of lads who need hospital treatment either because of conditions existing on their arrival or because of illness or accident while in the institution. There were 33 admissions to the public hospital, compared with 21 last year and 17 the year before. One lad was transferred to Seacliff Mental Hospital for observation. On admission, all inmates are given a thorough medical examination by the institution medical officer, Dr. F. Russell Miller, and where necessary special diet or treatment is prescribed. Special attention is given to dental treatment, and once again the dental officer, Mr. M. Parr, gave good service, attending the institution at regular intervals for routine work, and carrying out more difficult treatments in his own surgery. Dentures were provided by the Department in all cases where they were needed, it being regarded as part of the general health programme to ensure that teeth and dentures were in first-class order.

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Dr. D. G. McLaclilan, Assistant Medical Superintendent of Seacliff Mental Hospital, visited the institution regularly, providing valuable psychiatric reports on 50 of the lads -during the year. Case-liistories.—A study of the case-histories of the 82 lads received during the year provides an interesting picture of their experiences prior to their admission to the institution. The following tables show that in many cases before they reach the Borstal institution they have been well versed in crime and have given clear indication of antisocial attitudes : Previous convictions — Admitted to probation .. . . .. .. 29 Under care of Child Welfare Officer .. .. .. 35 Borstal prison, or Child Welfare correction home .. 37 Admonished, or convicted and discharged .. .. 21 Fined .. .. . . .. .. ... 6 First offenders .. .. .. .. .. 17 Previous institutional experiencePrison .. .. . . .. .. 3 Borstal . . .. .. .. .. 11 Boys' Training Centre, Levin .. . . .. 11 Child Welfare correction homes . . .. 12 Otekaike Special School .. .. .. 1 Church orphanages .. .. .. .. 9 In the above tables a number of the 'inmates have been included more than once n'here they have been subjected 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; cycle-conversion ; sexual offences ; .assault; false pretences ; fraud ; robbery under arms ; mischief; idleness ; and breach of probation. The first three were again predominant. The ages of the inmates admitted were—fifteen years, 3 inmates ; sixteen years, 10 inmates ; seventeen years, 13 inmates ; eighteen years, 29 inmates ; nineteen years, 23 inmates ; twenty years, 4 inmates : total, 82. Educational attainment on admission was —secondary education, 23 ; passed Form 11, 25 ; passed Form I, 18; passed Standard 4, 9 ; passed Standard 3, 4; passed 2, 2 ; illiterate, 1 : total, 82. Geographical Distribution : Of the 82 inmates received, 48 were admitted from the North Island and 34 from the South Island ; 23 were Maoris. The numbers of Maoris .admitted is out of proportion to the population, and it is interesting to note that the great majority of these came from the cities and larger towns. Causes of Delinquency.—As stated in previous reports, the major underlying factor is undoubtedly the broken home or unsatisfactory home conditions. The death of a parent, domestic strife and divorce, remarriage of one parent and the advent of a stepfather or stepmother, and all the disturbing elements that arise out of such situations, .are found time and time again in the case-histories. High wages, easy transference from job to job, weak control by parents, and the increasing freedom being given to adolescents are all contributing factors. Feeble-mindedness, physical handicaps, the stigma and insecurity of illegitimacy, defects of personality, and lack of moral fibre are also significant. The final cause of delinquency is, however, the failure of the particular individual to cope with his environment. It is as much a personal as a social problem, .and any treatment of delinquency must recognize this factor. Administrative Problems.—During the year there has been some criticism of the Borstal system of dealing with young delinquents and it is pe-rhaps desirable to make a ibrief statement concerning the objectives and methods of treatment. The Borstal

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system is based on the belief that young offenders need to be helped and guided rather than subjected to punitive treatment. Rigid discipline and strict routine are not enough. The programme must be designed with a view to bringing out the best in each individual. There must be a certain amount of liberty and freedom of choice, with the consequent possibility of error and wrong decision. There must be room for mistakes, for it is by making mistakes and seeing the error of his ways that the individual learns to do better. No claim can be made that every boy who passes through the institution is completely cured of his criminal propensities, but it is a fact that every lad benefits from his period of detention and goes out with a better moral outlook and healthier social attitudes than when admitted. In some cases lads may seem to have been released on licence too soon, but that is a risk that must be taken, for the dangers arising out of holding the individual in an institution too long are just as great as the risk of releasing too soon. A recent study of the statistics covering the ten-year period 1938-47 reveals that more than 54 per cent, of the inmates admitted and released during that period have not offended again. The figures are as follows : Number of inmates in ten-year period ended 31st December, 1947 Admitted and released .. • .. .. .. 983 With no convictions after release ' .. .. .. 533 Convicted but not re-sentenced .. .. 39 With one conviction after release .. .. .. 167 With more than one conviction .. .. .. 198 Who became persistent offenders .. .. 48 These figures indicate that there is still room for improvement, but they compare more than favourably with the figures of the English Borstals, and are considerably better than those of the United States Federal Bureau of Prisons. A detailed analysis was made to discover whether length of sentence or the proportion of the sentence served had any bearing on future conduct, but no conclusive answer was found. As far as the figures are concerned, there appears to be no correlation between length of sentence and time served with recidivism. Quite obviously other factors such as previous history, home environment, stability of personality, opportunity, and chance all enter into the overall-picture. Behaviour. The. standard of behaviour has been maintained at a high level throughout the year. The numbers have been smaller, which has made it possible to concentrate more on the individual than in times when the muster has been high. Stress has been placed on the positive side of discipline rather than on coercion and the threat of punishment. An endeavour has been made, both through collective and individual appeal, to induce the lads to respond to discipline and do right rather than wrong on the basis of personal choice and decision, rather than because it was demanded by the rules. An attempt has been made to develop a community spirit and a sense of social responsibility to the group which it is hoped will carry over to the community when the lads are released. There has been discouragement and disappointment, but on the whole we have felt that there has been a marked response by the majority of the lads. The number of escapes was rather higher than usual, and in two instances considerable damage was done to private property by the escapees. There were 2 attempted escapes involving 4 inmates ; 2 inmates escaped from an escorting officer on the way to the institution ; and 5 escapes from the farm and institution. In each case the inmates were recaptured within a few days and additional terms were added to their sentences. Programme. —The programme of work and play in the institution is planned with a view to keeping the lads busily occupied in jobs that are inherently interesting and in sports that are competitive and challenging.. With this in mind we have sought to develop new industries and mechanize old ones, and have as well taken steps to extend

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'the opportunities for competitive sport. In dealing with adolescents there is sound philosophy in this quotation by a well-known and successful headmaster of a boys' school: " Work them hard, play them hard, feed them well, and send them to bed so tired that they fall asleep as soon as their heads hit the pillow." As far as possible, during the past year, we have tried to organize our activities along this line, and with this in view have sought to avoid locking inmates in their cubicles except for sleeping. 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 that most of them remain here, but they can be taught .how to handle tools, and in many cases discover a vocation which they can follow up -on their release. We have found that we get a better response from our lads and achieve more in the way of reformation if we put them to tasks that can be seen to be meaningful .rand productive. For this reason we have endeavoured to keep before the inmates the idea that the institution with all its works and ramifications is a live, vigorous organization which not only has a high standard of achievement and productivity, but also has a place for the active co-operative endeavour of all concerned. Fully half our lads are •employed on the various activities of our 2,000-acre farm. Here the lads are taught the .latest farming methods under the careful supervision of competent farm officers. They learn not only how to carry out the specific tasks of farm routine, but also come to revel in the sense of physical well-being that is the special privilege of those who work close to the soil. Other inmates are employed in the various industries attached to the institution —carpentering, joinery, blacksmithing, plumbing, bricklaying and concrete work, bootmaking, baking, painting, laundry work, and bookbinding. The Farm. —During the past financial year the farm activities showed a profit over working-expenses of £1,327. This year there is every indication that the results will be even better. During the year we baled more than 12,000 bales of hay, using about 'half of it for our own stock and selling over £6OO worth. We sowed and harvested 36 -acres of wheat, 16 acres of barley, 36 acres of oats, and 20 acres of potatoes. Over 5,000 sheep, including some belonging to neighbouring farmers, were shorn, and nearly 2,000 lambs were sent to the freezing-works. We milked an average of about 100 cows and ■sold over £7OO worth of pigs. During the past two years two tractors, a threshing-mill, .an automatic hay-baler, a tedder, a power mower, an additional truck, and a new reaper-.and-binder have been purchased and put into use. Plans have been drawn up for the complete remodelling of the dairy and much of the work has already been carried out. When completed it will be one of the best and most modern dairies in Southland. All •dairy cows are tuberculin tested annually and all cattle purchased are also given this test. Woodwork and Joinery Shop.- —Much progress has been made in the woodwork-shop. New machines have been added and the shop is turning out a quantity of excellent office furniture for Courthouses in various parts of the country as well as furniture for other institutions. The following is a list of some of the furniture made during the year : 14 school benches and forms, 60 cubicle chairs, 2 large office desks, and 3 office armchairs •for this institution ; 2 large forms for the Supreme Court, Invercargill ; 13 tallboys for Waikune Prison ; 1 table, 6 bedroom chairs, and 5 fireside chairs for Paparua Prison ; 18 cubicle chairs for Wi Tako Prison ; 6 lowboys for Addington Reformatory ; 36 upholstered chairs for Wanganui Supreme Court, also 36 for Wellington Supreme ■Court; 1 office desk, 3 counsel chairs, 1 set pigeonhole cupboards, and 16 upholstered counsel chairs with arms for various places. Bookbinding Department.-—This department has grown rapidly during the year, gradually increasing its output and improving the quality of the work done. The monthly value of the binding done increased from a minimum of £29 to a maximum in August of £lBO, the average for the last six months of the year being £165. We now bind more than 1,000 volumes a month for the National Library Service and several

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hundred volumes per annum for the office of the Commissioner of Patents. The? Secretary of the National Library Service recently wrote : " The quality of rebinding of those books which have been returned to this Service from your institution has been very satisfactory." Recently a printing machine powered by an electric motor has been installed in the department and it is expected that a considerable amount of specialized printing will be carried out on behalf of the Justice Department. New Buildings and Equipment.—Shortly after the commencement of the year a new cottage, upon which work had started four months earlier, was completed and occupied. Three other cottages were partially renovated, and towards the end of the year a thorough reconstruction and renovation of the oldest of the institution cottages was commenced. In the institution itself much building and reconstruction has been carried out with the purpose of providing added facilities with as little new building as possible. The entrance of the gymnasium was changed from the north to the south end, and the fixed stage removed so that the area could be used for basketball and other floor games. Provision was also made for better heating, and fluorescent lighting adds lustre to a very fine recreation-room. Five table-tennis tables and adequate facilities for cards and other games have been provided. Recently we have incorporated the Matron's quarters and Board room into the recreation area, providing a fine library and reading-room as well as a billiard-room for the association class. These additional facilities have changed the whole aspect of our evening programme and it is now possible to allow inmates to gostraight to the recreation-rooms after their evening meal without first locking them in their cubicles. The added recreational time and opportunities for freedom of movement met with a ready response from the inmates, so that there is much less misbehaviour and the esprit de corps of the Institution has shown a marked improvement. Work has been commenced on the new ablution block and the equipment for it, and the kitchen is coming to hand quickly. It is hoped that by the middle of the coming year the ablution block will be in use and the work on the kitchen well under way. New rooms were provided for the evening school and two of the rooms were equipped with new desks. Much-needed space for the expansion of the woodwork-shop was provided by building an extension to the institution store to make room for articles held for surveying and condemning. Plans have been made and some of the work already carried out for the provision of a-fall-sized football-field in the institution grounds. This will involve taking in almost all the experimental area and the whole of the north yard. The tennis-courts will have to be moved to the south yard. As has been mentioned above, the dairy buildings and equipment are in process of complete overhaul, and reconstruction and plans are in hand for making substantial additions to the piggery and shearing-sheds. Evening Classes. —As in previous years, these were divided into four groups, one of which took more advanced subjects at secondary-school stages. The class studiesincluded English, arithmetic, history, geography, and world affairs. The Southland and Otago branches of the Workers' Educational Association gave generous assistance, and in particular the drama classes under Mr. J. Marr proved most successful. The choir,, under the direction of Mr. Kennedy Black, reached a high standard and made a particularly fine contribution at the Christmas concert. Several successful concerts were presented, at the institution through the year. Vocational Classes. —Classes in life-saving and swimming, bookbinding, radio repairs, boot repairs, carpentry and joinery, and painting and sign writing have been conducted during the evenings by members of the staff and attracted the interest of large numbers of the inmates. Social Life and Entertainment. —Programmes of 16 mm. sound films have been presented weekly, being supplied by the National Film Library and commercial distributing agencies. Concerts were given by various organizations and a display of wrestling by the Southland Wrestling Club. One very successful function was provided.

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by the W.E.A. Drama Croup, which not only presented an excellent programme but also organized a group of ladies to provide a very good supper for the lads. A number of Sunday evening talks on a variety of subjects, ranging froni sports to natural history, was given to the inmates. A Maori party from the institution took part in a concert at the Civic Theatre, and other entertainments included community sings, table tennis and indoor basketball demonstrations, and a visit by Barton's Circus on a Sunday evening which created intense interest and amusement. The Borstal Christmas Cheer and Welfare Fund again benefited by the generosity of various Invercargill organizations and citizens. As a result no lad went short of gifts and comforts at Christmas, and prizes were given to winners of sports events held during the holidays. Outdoor Recreation.—Sport plays a very big part in the life of an institution, providing an outlet for pent-up energies and at the same time providing an objective interest for all concerned. Rugby football, baseball, cricket, and tennis are the principal sports played. Coaching was carried out by officers, many of them outside duty hours. Our teams entered into competition with outside teams in all of these sports, and though 110 great successes were achieved, the games were played in a good sporting spirit. Indoor basketball has been introduced for the first time this year and is creating a wide interest. Drill and gymnastics are 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. Periodical magazines are coming to hand more regularly. The new library and reading-room have made it possible to create conditions comparable to those of a normal library, and the inmates appreciate the opportunity of browsing amongst the books at will. There is an interest in reading, and the lads have a much better chance of reading along the lines of their particular interests. Religious Activities.—The Ministers' Association arranges services each Sunday. In addition, instruction is given by the Roman Catholic Church each week, a weekly song service is conducted by the Salvation Army, and Presbyterian and Anglican Bible classes meet regularly. Rehabilitation of Inmates. —Our active work ceases when an inmate is released, and all we can do at that stage is to see that he is provided with the necessary clothing and anything else he may need, such as working clothes, or blankets for instance if he is going to a forestry camp. We assist in finding a job or accommodation if required. If he has not sufficient cash to meet all his needs, which include equipment the Department cannot provide, the resources of the Welfare Fund or the Prisoners' and Patients' Aid Society are called upon. We feel that if the early period of readjustment to the community can be safely tided over, an inmate's chances of rehabilitation are greatly enhanced. When inmates are first admitted, a letter is sent to the parents or guardians giving information about the institution and its activities, and this has proved most helpful in that it has made them more co-operative, because they feel that we are trying to do something constructive for the lads. Consequently, on release many parents who had more or less given them up as uncontrollable take a renewed interest in them. Staff. —During the year Chief Warder J. M. D. Cathcart retired from the Service after being 011 the staff of the institution for twenty-nine years. He served the institution well and by his personality and character gained the constant respect and affection of the lads over many years. Three officers resigned from the Service to take up other positions and two were appointed to the staff. Principal Warder A. W. Cook was transferred to Waikeria Reformatory. The staff contributed £3l to the United Nations Appeal for Children. I wish to express my appreciation of the loyalty and co-operation of the .staff throughout the year.

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Waikeria Borstal Institution (Te Awamatu) (Superintendent: Mr. P. McMillan) I have the honour to present my annual report 011 the activities of this institution for the year ended 31st December, 1948. On the Ist January, 1948, there were in custody 45 Borstal inmates, and a further 19 were received during the year. The number of inmates released on probationary licence was 34, on expiration of sentence 3, on special remission 2, 3 were transferred to other institutions, and 3 were subsequent to a Magisterial examination, sent to a mental hospital, thus leaving 19 in custody on 31st December, 1948. In the reformatory section there were in custody at the beginning of the year 73 inmates and 130 were received during the year. Of these, 100 were either discharged on completion of sentence or released on remission or on probationary licence and 6 were transferred to other institutions, thus leaving a total of 97 in custody at the end of the year. The greatest number of Borstal inmates in confinement at any one time was 45, the least 16, and the daily average 28-52. In the reformatory section the greatest number of inmates in custody at one time was 104, the least 68, and the daily average 92*66 inmates. It is interesting to note here the reduction in Borstal admissions and the increase in numbers in the reformatory section. Similarly, with the increase in numbers in the latter section it is noted that the proportion of shorter-term prisoners tends to show an increase. In an institution such as this, good working insists on the maintenance of a high standard of discipline, and while this is maintained at a reasonably high level, breaches must occur, and must be dealt with. Generally speaking, the great majority of breaches committed are not serious ones, and the past year has not proved to be an exception. Where it is thought that the offence is one which should not be dealt with by me, then the services of the Visiting Justice or the Visiting Committee are availed of. The time and consideration given by these gentlemen is appreciated by the administration. It does seem that the fact that punishment will be administered when required and found to be necessary is a restraining influence. The urge to escape again manifested itself during the year, in which there were 5 inmates involved. In each case the individual was not at large for any length of time and was retaken within a short distance of the estate. One must record the fact, however, that the number of escapes is small, and where a great deal of trust is placed in these inmates one must only expect that from time to time it will be abused. The remedy does not appear to be an immediate restriction of privileges and a tightening of the honour system. On the other hand, if for no other reason than that they are a disturbing and unsettling influence, they must be guarded against at all times. The health of the inmates has been in the capable hands of Dr. J. B. W. Roberton, who, as in past years, has made himself available at all times and at the shortest notice. There have been no cases of seriqus sickness, and only the normal amount of influenza and other minor complaints. The dental work has been taken over by Mr. N. F. Dixon, who has done everything required of him. On many occasions inmates have been taken through to the Waikato Hospital at Hamilton for x-ray or other specialist treatment. Where this treatment has been over an extended period the inmate concerned has been transferred to Auckland Prison for greater convenience. The usual summer sports —cricket and tennis —were played and were as popular as ever. It is surprising how well some of the inmates develop at these games, particularly when it is considered that many of them have never previously talien part in any organized sport. Several cricket matches were played with outside teams, and some very enjoyable games resulted. Owing to the fact that these games interfered

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with essential work on the farm, they were later discontinued. Football during the year was confined to inter-institutional games, and some games with outside teams which had a day free from competition play. In the main these games were very enjoyable and played in good spirit. Evening school classes commenced again under the control of Mr. F. Yazey, who is attached to the Te Awamutu Primary School. Special attention is given to those inmates who are backward or have had very little schooling. In many cases the results are most encouraging. In 'the library section a new* departure this year has been the introduction of the Country Library Service exchange system. At first I was a little afraid that these books might suffer in the inmates' hands, and consequently the system was introduced slowly. Farming activities are the main source of employment for inmates placed in our charge. The different branches attached to a place such as this give the inmates an insight into all branches of agricultural work, also the management of all types of livestock and the breaking-in, sowing, and harvesting of crops. Besides the handling of horses, we also do tractor work. Here inmates are being taught an occupation which should be of use to them when released. There are many theories advanced in regard to the use of prison labour, the main one being that prisoners should be used to break in land from the rough, and when it is productive hand it over for settlement by civilians. This course does not appeal to me. My view on the subject is that as farming is the most important industry in this country and the majority of youths placed in our charge are labourers, then if we can train some or the majority of them to become useful farm labourers, the only place to give them a liking for the land is a place such us we have here, where results are produced and surroundings and live-stock are equal to any they are likely to encounter when discharged. The season just completed has from the farming point of view been a good one with sufficient rain to keep pastures growing. Here we derive our main source of revenue from the dairy herds. In all, five dairy sheds are worked with an average of 120 cows per dairy. The full production from four of the sheds is supplied to dairy companies in the form of cream, the supply from the fifth being pasteurized and bottled and supplied to schools, approximately 3,000 bottles being delivered daily. Skim-milk is made use of in the rearing of calves and pigs. All dairy replacements are bred and reared on the property. Also, in addition to the dairy cattle, a herd of breeding-cows— Polled Angus and Shorthorn —is maintained. The progeny from these cows are reared to three years and sold as beef. Cattle carried on the property total 1,808 head. We also endeavour to assist any inmate who does not find his ambitions towards cattle, so the Department maintains a flock of approximately 4,000 breeding-ewes. The majority of these ewes are mated to Southdown rams, and lambs are forwarded to the freezing-works. The better woolled and constitutioned sheep are mated to Romney rams and the ewe lambs are retained as flock replacements. Quite a number of inmates have gained a good knowledge of this branch of farming —some have become quite efficient shearers and useful shed hands. Lambing percentages here are mostly good and over the past three seasons has not been below 100 per cent. The number of sheep on the property at the end of the year was 5,475. To maintain stock through the winter it is necessary to have a good supply of winter feed. This season we have 90 acres of chou moellier, 50 acres of swedes, and have harvested close to 1,000 tons of hay. Hay crops were heavy, but some difficulty was experienced in harvesting as the weather was very erratic. For inmates not interested in the stock and agricultural work we have an orchard and a fairly extensive garden. The orchard work is very interesting for inmates who have that trend. Pruning, spraying, harvesting, and thfe packing of fruit is carried out. Fruit is supplied from the orchard here to all institutions in the North Island, and

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sales are made privately and consignments sent to the Marketing Department. Garden work provides an interesting and instructive occupation for inmates with leanings towards that line. All kitchen vegetables are grown, also a goodly area of tomatoes, and a balanced vegetable diet is available for the institution throughout the year. In the garden section, tobacco-growing is also carried out and quite a good-quality leaf is produced. A fair amount of knowledge is required in the growing, harvesting, and curing of the tobacco-leaf. The leaf is grown, dried in the heated kilns, baled and sent to Auckland Prison for manufacture. The leaf produced here goes a long way in the providing of tobacco for inmates confined in the prisons throughout New Zealand. An apiary of some 60 hives of bees is maintained and quite satisfactory results are produced from this side line. Maintained on the staff here is an experienced tradesman carpenter, and any inmates who are so inclined have an opportunity to learn this trade. With the large numbers of buildings, residences, and farm buildings, maintenance is continuous and good experience can be obtained. Plumbing is another trade which can be learned. A qualified plumber is on the staff, and, as with other trades, varied and good training can be given to any inmate who is keen to do so. Ration issues have been maintained at a high level throughout the year, with all meat, vegetables, milk, &c, being provided from the farm and other sections. The bakehouse has continued to function well and has met all needs with a product of good quality. The standard of clothing worn has been subject to some limitations # of supply, but in the main the shortages which were apparent throughout the year are being overcome and supplies are now practically normal again. The sewing, mending, and washing of inmates' clothing has been carried out satisfactorily. The successful running of the institution and its activities is dependent on the loyal assistance and co-operation of every member of the staff. I accordingly wish to record my appreciation of the help and assistance given me.

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STATISTICS Prisoners—General Summary, 1948

Approximate Cost of Printing.—Preparation, not given ; printing (889 copies), £9O.

By Authority: R. E. Owen, Government Printer, Wellington.—l 949.

Price Is. ]

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Prisoners Received, -Discharged, &c. 1 Greatest Number in Prison at One Time. Least Number in Prison at One Time. Name of Prison. Number of Persons at Beginning of Year. Number Received During Tear. Number Discharged or Transferred. Number in Prison at End of Year. JL^CViXJ Average Number of Prisoners. A deling ton (Women's Reformatory) Arohata (Women's Reformatory) Arohata (Borstal Institution) Auckland Hautu (Tokaanu) Invercargill Invercargill (Borstal InstituM. F. 13 M. F. 25 M. F. 31 M. F. 7 M. F. 14 M. F. 6 M. F. 9-47 337 41 7 106 18 12 1,093 48 94 82 27 15 60 1,165 50 97 83 25 23 62 265 39 4 105 2 10 10 337 42 15 108 4 19 17 255 31 2 91 9 7 297-90 36-42 7-60 99-40 0-99 13-33 11 -67 Napier New Plymouth Paparua (Tepipleton) Rangipo Waikeria (Reformatory) Waikeria (Borstal Institution) Waikune (Erua) Wanganui Wellington Wi-Tako (Trentham) Minor prisons and police gaols Police lock-ups 20 47 129 43 73 45 67 19 90 58 12 151 116 589 39 130 19 98 95 904 230 428 10 6 '3 12 149 111 581 48 106 •45 102 92 915 239 431 10 6 3 12 22 52 137 34 97 19 63 22 79 49 9 32 66, 168 43 104 45 90 29 107 69 2 15 46 109 25 68 16 55 14 70 38 1 22-51 54-43 136-05 35-00 92-66 28-52 68-27 20-38 86-14 53-49 15-23 15-41 0-14 0-21 Totals 1,094 43 4,126 148 4,224 162 996 29 1,069-41 35-81 Sickness. Name of Prison. Greatest Number 111 at Any One Time. Admissions to I Number of Distinct Prisoners 111 for More Than Fortyeight Hours on One or More Occasions, Total Number of Separate Illnesses, Total Number of Days, and Daily Average on Sick-list. Hospital During Year. § % 0 a jS s s is Number of Separate Illnesses. Total Number of Days 111. Daily Average on Sicklist. O H H 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 ■M. 26 2 2 10 2 4 6 4 10 4 7 4 3 6 F. ' 2 1 3 3 M. ii 2. 1 32 2 3 8 3 4 4 7 1 9 3 3 F. 2 1 3 2 2 1 12 74 8 6 37 6 16 28 7 17 3 22 7 26 27 2 ] 51 2 IS 1 3 8 2 8 3 8 4 3 3 1 26 1 6 i 1 i 4 '2 54 2 '2 2 1 2 "i I 2 1 17 561 15 6 105 9 25 47 11 41 18 48 35 32 44 2 89 5 193 3,047 147 45 1,012 92 122 580 " 99 440 270 338 341 322 253 10 0-24 0-01 0-53 8-33 0-40 0-12 2-77 0-25 0-33 1-58 . 0-27 1-20 0-74 0-92 0-93 0-88 0-69 0-03 Totals 93 8 301 116 43 64 1,019 7,405 20-22