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Industrial Conciliation and Arbitration Act. The number of awards under this Act keeps on increasing, and practically every industry in the district is working under an award of the Court. Frequent visits have been paid to country districts, where the working of awards has beep inquired into, and explanations and advice given where necessary. On the whole, there has been very little friction, and everything possible has been done to keep things running smoothly. Four persons were proceeded against for breaches of awards. In 3 cases penalties were inflicted, and I case was dismissed for want of sufficient evidence. Arrears of wages amounting to £48 9s. 9d., covering breaches of the Bakers and Pastrycooks', Butchers', Carpenters', and Timber-yards and Sawmills awards, were collected, and paid to the workers concerned. Servants' Registry Offices Act.. There were 8 persons, holding licenses under this Act in Invercargill, all of whom have apparently made every endeavour to comply with the requirements of the law. Workuks' Dwellings Act. A suitable block of land to provide sites for workers' dwellings has been secured in South Invercargill, and applications have been invited from workers desirous of securing homes under the Act. Applications were received for all the sections under offer, and no doubt the necessary houses to accommodate the applicants and their families will shortly be erected. Conclusion. Ifl conclusion, 1 have to express my appreciation of the services rendered by police officers acting as Factory Inspectors in the country districts. By their aid much heavy travelling has been avoided and time saved. I have, &c, H. B. Bower, Inspector of Factories. The Secretary of Labour and Chief Inspector of Factories, Wellington. DARGAVILLE. During the past year skilled and unskilled labour have been in great demand throughout the district and high wages have been paid. In consequence of the increased amount of work a good deal of overtime has been worked, principally in the sawmilling and tailoring trades. For the greater part of the year the building trade has been brisk, but lately business has fallen off, and several carpenters have left the district. The flax-milling industry has also been brisk; two mills are now working in full swing. The kauri-gum industry is employing between 400 and 500 men, who are all making good wages on account of the high prices and demand for gum. During the year 10 informations were laid against 8 occupiers for minor breaches of the Acts, convictions being obtained in each case. The dairy industry is increasing rapidly in all parts of the district, and farmers from other parts are settling here. MANGAWEKA. The various trades have, on the whole, had a fairly good year. One or two businesses closed down, whilst others commenced operations. Owing to sewerage, water, and electric works being carried out here it was a most difficult matter to obtain sufficient labour to carry out the works, and good navvies were at a premium. The farmers have had a good year, and fair prices were recorded for wool, dairy-produce, and stock. During the annual inspection of shearing-sheds it was found that the accommodation was not satisfactory in some cases, and notice was given to effect improvements as required by the Act. HUNTERVILLE. Factories Act : All the factories in this district have been fully employed, but no overtime was worked. There have been no complaints, and no prosecutions have been necessary for breaches of the Act. The various trades appear to be prosperous and work generally has been plentiful. Shops and Offices Act: This Act has also given general satisfaction, and no difficulty has been experienced in carrying out its provisions. The statutory half-holiday is observed by all, and there have been no prosecutions during the year.

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