H.—l9a

1908. NEW ZEALAND

WORKING OF CANTEENS DURING THE LAST EASTER MANŒUVRES (REPORTS IN REGARD TO).

Return to an Order of the House of Representatives dated the 24th July, 1908. Ordered, " That there be laid before this House all the reports in regard to the working of canteens during the ast Easter manoeuvres." —(Mr. Wood.)

New Zealand Defence Foeces. N.Z. Defence Forces, District Office, Wellington.—Book I, No. 08/571. District Office, Wellington, N.Z., 28th April, 1908. Sib, — In compliance with the last minute on the attached file, I have the honour to report on the working of the canteens at the recent Easter manoeuvres in this district as under: — 1. There were present at the manoeuvres a total, all ranks, of 2,340, the largest attendance on record. 2. Out of this large number of troops not a single case of drunkenness has been reported to, or observed by, this district staff; neither has any complaint been made to this office, by either the military or civilians, of improper conduct of any one who took part in the manoeuvres. 3. There was not a single case of injury or accident through drink. 4. The discipline and endurance of the troops were excellent, and civilians who had to work with the troops and others who watched the manoeuvres all through speak in the highest terms of the conduct of the forces. 5. As regards the resolution the New Zealand Alliance, I desire to give a flat contradiction of the statement contained therein that " for ten years past no canteen has been permitted in Wellington." As a matter of fact, canteens have been granted in this district every year, and it speaks volumes for their conduct and harmlessness when such could be the case without the fact being known to the Alliance. The very large attendance and excellent discipline previously referred to at once disposes of the statement contained in the resolution that " the step now taken is opposed to the traditions of the local Volunteer Force and to the best interests of military discipline." I have, &c, A. Bauchop, Lieut.-Colonel, Adjutant-General, Council of Defence, Wellington. O/C District.

I hereby certify the above is a true copy of the original Report. W. H. Webb, Colonel, 30/7/08. Secretary, Council of Defence.