H—2o

The output and sales for the year have been exceptionally good. The output from the garden has been very good, considering the small amount of ground workable. Flower-growing continues to be profitable. There has been a plentiful supply of all varieties of vegetables for issue to the prisoners. Breadmaking has continued with satisfactory results. The bread oven had been out of commission for a number of years ; the fault has now been remedied and a very-high-class loaf is now being turned out. The conduct of the prisoners has been good, there being no offences during the year. The thanks of the Department are due to J. Miller, Esq., S.M., the Napier Brotherhood, the St. Vincent De Paul Society, Gospel Hall, F. Selby, G. Husheer, Mrs. Wrigley, and Mrs. Andrew for their donations and gifts for additional comforts during the festive season. The staff have carried out their duties loyally during the year. I sincerely thank them. New Plymouth Prison (Superintendent: Mr. J. Dow) There were 40 male prisoners in custody at the beginning of the year. During the year 121 male prisoners were received, whilst 115 male prisoners were discharged or otherwise disposed of, leaving 46 in custody at the end of the year. The admissions are 44 more than in 1945, but this can be accounted for by a large number of ship-deserters being committed to prison. One prisoner was transferred to a mental hospital during the year. The conduct generally of the prisoners has been good and there has been a very small number of breaches of the regulations. There were no escapes. The health of the prisoners has been good, there being no general sickness at any time. There were three males admitted to public hospital during the year, and in each case it was for treatment of an ailment so affected before admission. The industrial activities of the prison have been fully carried on during the year with satisfactory results, and all prisoners have been fully occupied. The garden has been the main industry and provides healthy and interesting work for the inmates. As in former years, the growing of vegetable plants for sale has proved a great success financially. Fresh vegetables have been grown all the year round for institutional use, and the surplus is sold in the open market, to the public hospital, and at times to the New Plymouth Boys' High School. A supply of root crop has been grown for the pigs. The potato crop turned out very well and met our institutional requirements for approximately four months. The pig industry has again proved a success, and there is a great demand at present for porkers. Stock on hand at the end of the year was as follows : 2 boars ; 13 breedingsows ; 6 porkers ; and 52 weaners. The quarry industry in continuing and gives employment to the inmates who require strict supervision. A ready sale is found for all that can be produced. The purchase of cows for rations continues to be made through the Farmers Co-op. Association and is giving satisfaction. Killing is done by prison labour on the premises. All meat is inspected by the Meat Inspector before being used. Boot-repairing provides useful employment for one man throughout the year. Work in the laundry provides employment for three men washing prisoners' clothing and towels, &c., for other Government Departments. The usual social activities have been continued throughout the year. The local residents continue to take an interest in the welfare of the inmates, and the numerous concerts provided have been very much appreciated. In addition to the social activities, a drill class is held on two nights each week. Card evenings are held every week, and this is enjoyed by all. A class on first aid and home nursing was conducted during the year, and in the examination held there was only one who failed.

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