H.—l9b.

XXXVII

As regards water-supply, the evidence shows that this has at all times been efficient. As regards sanitation, we find that the general system was efficient. X. Whether the camp is suitably situated, equipped, and arranged for the purpose for which it is used; and XL Whether sufficient sanitary or other reasons exist for its removal from the present position. We find that the camp is suitably situated. As regards equipment and arrangement, embracing under that head surface drainage and road-formation, sewerage, habitation, drying-apparatus, and hospital accommodation, upon the evidence that we have had before us we find that no sufficient sanitary or other reasons exist for the removal of the camp from its present situation. We consider it may continue to be used provided the following conditions are observed : — (a.) A limitation of the size of the camp to a number not exceeding from 4,000 to 4,500 men. (b.) The formation of roads with surface drainage with such ample outfall as we understand is now in progress. (c.) The execution of a complete system of sewerage for the effective disposal of the liquid refuse of the camp. (d.) The improvement in the construction and use of the huts by— (i.) An amendment of the ventilation : (ii.) The provision of stretchers : (iii.) The lining of huts having galvanized-iron walls with a less conducting material : (iv.) The construction of a porch or ante-room : (v.) The carrying of roof-water clear of the huts and adjacent ground : (vi.) The provision of a concreted space for night-pails : (vii.) The restriction of the number of occupants : (viii.) Where feasible, the use of separate hutments for meals. (c.) The maintenance of an efficient provision for drying clothes and boots. (/.) The retention of the right to use the racecourse buildings and other hospital accommodation so long as no other substituted provision is available. XII. Whether the food supplied to the troops has been at all times sufficient and of good quality and properly prepared and served. We find that, with trivial exceptions On isolated occasions, the food has been sufficient, of good quality, properly prepared and served. XIII. Whether the clothing supplied to the troops has been at all times of proper quality and sufficient in amount. We find that there is no evidence to establish that the clothing has not been of proper quality or sufficient in amount, but it was shown that with the wet condition of the camp during the winter season it was expedient that the issue of the second pair of boots should have been made as speedily as possible after the first issue, so as to enable each man to have a change of military boots, but, that there was not a sufficient supply in hand to enable an immediate issue to be made. XIV. Whether the tents, huts, and other accommodation for the troops have at all times been sufficient, suitable, and proper for the purpose. We find that the accommodation for the troops was not sufficient after the 29th May, thus leading to serious overcrowding in the hutments. We have already dealt with the sufficiency and suitability of the hutments, and have pointed out where improvements should be made and the conditions under which they should be used.