H.—37

Maintenance Changes in policy throughout the year had their effect on maintenance organization and placed a heavy administrative burden thereon. Nevertheless, the result has been, generally, an improvement in that organization. Supply Aviation fuel and oil supplies have been satisfactorily maintained. Messing on R.N.Z.A.F. stations continues to be of a high standard. A reduction of mechanical transport and marine craft has been possible during the year. Aeronautical Production Local manufacture of a wide range of aeronautical, electrical, and ground equipment continued throughout the year, and, in addition, repair and reconditioning of aero tires and tubes has been successfully undertaken by local contractors. The manufacture of new elementary training aircraft was terminated during the year, but repairs and overhauls of this type of aircraft and the production and repair of wooden propellers and aircraft accumulators has been continued by local contractors. Signals During the year ended 31st March, 1945, the increased R.N.Z.A.F. operational responsibilities in the Northern Solomons and Bismarck area, and the accompanying decreased activity within New Zealand, has been reflected in the signal organization. Signal planning has been directed towards stabilizing the New Zealand organization and to developing that in the forward area to meet the tactical requirements of the New Zealand Air Task Force. With the increase in scheduled air transport activities between New Zealand, United States of America, Australia, British possessions in the South Pacific, and also in support of our Forces overseas, considerable planning has been necessary for the provision of the requisite radio navigational and communication facilities. Meteorological Apart from increased overseas commitments consequent on the establishment of the New Zealand Air Task Force, there has been no important change in the meteorological service during the year, and it still continues to provide all weather information required for the Armed Services and the civil community. Late in 1944 the restrictions and the dissemination of weather information were relaxed to the extent of permitting the transmission of weather reports by radio in plain language, but the broadcasting of forecasts is still prohibited. Band of the R.N.Z.A.F. As in past years, the Band of the R.N.Z.A.F. has continued to provide entertainment for Service personnel, and assist in campaigns for recruiting, National Patriotic Funds, and war loans. In the middle of the year it undertook a tour of Stations in the Pacific. Its popularity was acclaimed by both American and New Zealand forces and proved a considerable factor in the maintenance of morale. Public Relations In addition to the carrying-out of its usual functions, the Directorate of Public Relations introduced facilities for personnel serving in the Pacific for the purchase of official photographs for despatch to relatives by the Directorate. This service is universally appreciated, and sales month by month have steadily increased. Conclusion I desire to express my thanks and appreciation to all members of the Royal New Zealand Air Force and to the civilian staff for their efforts during the past year. I have, &c., L. M. Isitt, Air Vice-Marshal, Chief of the Air Staff.

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