H.—2o.

labour on reproductive works, by the provision of up-to-date equipment and mechanical appliances, and by the prosecution of approved modern methods and of a progressively effectual system of accounting, it is claimed that the primary need of reclamation and reformation still occupies predominant place and is not relegated to the background. Two inmates escaped during the year, one inmate escaping on two separate occasions. The acts, according to the explanations of the inmates concerned, were entirely unpremeditated. They were the usual runaway type of escape, which is not preventable and fortunately not very common. The majority of inmates respond to the trust placed in them, but occasional impulsive acts, such as those described herein, occur. Generally speaking, the health of the inmates has been very satisfactory. It is with regret that I have to record the death of one inmate from pneumonia following an attack of influenza. The health of the inmates and the general sanitary conditions in the institution itself are under the control of the Medical Officer, Dr. J. B. W. Robertson, of Te Awamutu. In matters of health no risks whatever are taken, and genuine cases are always treated sympathetically and provided with whatever treatment and diet are advised by the Medical Officer. There were no epidemic diseases, and only one inmate required treatment for venereal disease. The various sources of water-supply were tested during the year by the health authorities in conjunction with the Auckland Hospital Board, as a result of which it was deemed expedient to install a chlorinating filtration plant on the main supply. Allied with the general question of health is that of food-supplies. The dietary scale is prescribed by the regulations, and there is provision for extra rations to meet special circumstances and to comply with the directions of the Medical Officer in special cases. Supplies of meat, milk, vegetables, and potatoes are drawn daily from the farm, and the cooking is under the supervision of an experienced chef. Bread is manufactured at the institution itself, and supplies of apples are drawn from the orchard during the season. The food is plain and wholesome and presented in a manner to make it attractive and appetizing. The arrangements made by the Department whereby adequate dental work for inmates may be executed by a qualified practising dentist were fully availed of and gave general satisfaction. Religious services were again provided by visiting chaplains from Te Awamutu and Kihikihi. The maintenance of law and order within the institution itself is an important function of the administration, and in this matter the Department is greatly indebted to the Visiting Justices, Mr. W. Jefiery and Mr. S. Clark, and to members of the Borstal Visiting Committee, Mr. F. Quin, Mr. P. W. Bevin, Mr. G. A. Empson, and Mr. F. J. Gilbert. These gentlemen have been associated with the activities of the Borstal and reformatory for many years, and the fair and impartial way in which they have dealt with disciplinary matters, and the helpful assistance given in other directions, is very much appreciated. No serious offences occurred during the year, and no difficulty was experienced in keeping all activities running smoothly. The recreative side of the work received full attention, and under this head it is again my pleasure to record the thanks of the Department for the valuable assistance given by Mr. F. Findlay, of Hamilton, who voluntarily undertakes the arduous task of organizing concert parties in Hamilton for the benefit of the inmates. Thanks are also due to local artists for providing occasional entertainments, and to Dr. L. S. Rogers for a substantial donation to the Christmas cheer funds. Probably the outstanding event of the year in this regard was the concert organized by the inmates themselves. A finely balanced programme was drawn up, and after diligent practice for many months it was presented before the inmates and visitors in the institution concert hall. It was an unqualified success, and in response to requests permission was obtained to have it presented again at Hamilton and Te Awamutu. At these places small charges were made for admission and the proceeds devoted to the Children's Camp funds and the funds of the St. John Ambulance Association. Very keen interest in the concert was taken by all inmates, and those participating were particularly energetic and painstaking in their efforts to provide a balanced entertainment capable of meriting public patronage. It was a very gracious act on the part of the Mayors of Hamilton and Te Awamutu personally to interest themselves in the concerts, and their influence and help was of considerable value, adding just that final touch to enable everything to go ofE smoothly. The concert was also presented at the Tokanui Mental Hospital for the benefit of the inmates of that institution. The unwritten rule that inmates whilst away from the precincts of the institution are to conduct themselves in a manner which, without being ostentatious, is compatible with that of the ordinary decent citizen was faithfully observed. Neither at concerts in the evenings nor at sports during the day was it necessary to provide any special supervision. Usually only one officer, generally a participant in or organizer of the games or concert party, accompanies the inmates on such occasions. Wireless programmes were provided during the year, the schedule of hours being extended where necessary to incorporate any broadcasts of exceptional interest. The purely educative side of the recreational movement was largely provided by night classes under the direction of the Schoolmaster. With the aid of a collection of pictures, slides, films, and English education journals endeavours were made to make the courses more of a cultural nature. Lectures, talks, and simple debates on local, national, and international topics were taken regularly and created quite a large amount of interest. Films and slides kindly loaned for use at the institution, were undoubtedly of substantial value, the number and variety of questions asked showing that keen interest had been aroused and indicating that an extension of this form of visual education would be desirable. Practical experiments in agriculture were conducted, and these, in conjunction with lectures on dairy science and agricultural science, were very popular. Routine school work was also carried out according to the needs of the pupils. Provision is also made whereby inmates desiring to do so may study by means of correspondence courses with recognized corespondence schools. Every

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