41

8.—9

The number of wills received and the steady annual increase in this number bear strong testimony to the success with which the Office business is being conducted. Every year brings an increase not only in numbers but in the value of the estates of testators who appoint the Public Trustee executor. The improved organization and the provision for advisory trustees have played an important part in bringing about this increase. INSPECTION OF DISTRICT BRANCHES. 92. During the year the system of inspection of the District Branches has been well maintained. The Reviewing Inspectors, who visit each branch in their district at intervals not exceeding four months, in addition to the principal duty of reviewing the administration of the estates, also keep a careful check on. the cash system, and inspect all matters of office routine in respect of the administration work. At. the smaller offices controlled by District Managers under the supervision of District Public Trustees the Reviewing Inspectors, in addition to reviewing the administration of the estates, conduct a complete audit of the cash and accounting records, and submit a written, certificate to the Public Trustee. At all offices the Inspectors carefully scrutinize the collection of all. rent, interest, and book debts, and submit periodical reports to the Public Trustee. The result is that amounts in arrear have been reduced to a minimum. Approximately at yearly intervals a comprehensive inspection of every District Branch and all Head Office Divisions is made by a Head Office Inspector. This inspection not only comprises a thorough examination of the administration and accounting work and the system and organization directly connected therewith, but also includes a careful investigation of all matters in respect of the staff, equipment, accommodation, office buildings, expansion of business, or any other subject having a bearing on the efficient conduct of the branch. The Agencies at the smaller towns, which, are conducted, on a commission basis by outside local business men, are periodically inspected by the District

6—B. 9.