H.—2OA.

It is satisfactory to observe from the foregoing statistics that, as heretofore, not a fourth of those who have undergone terms of reformative treatment have again offended. Of those released on probation on the recommendation of the Board after serving a term of imprisonment involving hard labour, 80 per cent, either successfully completed the term of probation or were satisfactorily complying with the conditions of release. Of the habitual criminals released on parole, 23 per cent, refrained from further offending. Considering the intractable material dealt with, especially the latter class, and the whole of the circumstances, particularly the adverse economic conditions which have without doubt accentuated the difficulties that have faced the discharged prisoner in re-establishing himself in society, the results are decidedly gratifying. The results of the Borstal cases are even more satisfactory. Of the total of 214 young offenders released since the passing of the Prevention of Crime Act, 1924, up to the 31st December last, only four, or 1-87 per cent, have been subsequently reconvicted. On the sth August, 1926, the Hon. Sir Robert Stout resigned from the Board consequent upon his appointment to the Legislative Council. Sir Robert occupied the position of President of the Board from the date of its inception in 1911 until the date of his retirement as Chief Justice, on the 31st January, 1926. Mr. Edwin Hall, of Auckland, also resigned during the year. He had been a member of the Board for eleven years, but latterly, on account of failing health, had not been able regularly to attend the meetings of the Board. The Board has to express its appreciation of the services rendered by these gentlemen. Both were deeply interested in the work of the Board, and gave their time, at considerable personal sacrifice, freely and liberally in this connection. T. W. Stbinger, President. Auckland, 3rd August, 1927.

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