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The output and quality of the floor-polish, and sandsoap industries have been well maintained. The printing and bookbinding shops have continued to furnish very satisfactory returns, and requisitions have been ably and expeditiously handled throughout the year. The cultural welfare of the prisoners has been well maintained throughout the year. Lectures and entertainments were frequently held, also evening radio programmes were provided regularly, incorporating any broadcasts of exceptional interest. The gift of several parcels of books from the Wellington Public Library provided a welcome addition to the institutional library. Concerts were given by the Wellington Justices' Association, the Presbyterian Social Guild, and the Salvation Army. Each of these organizations also provided Christmas cheer. Christmas contributions were also received from Mrs. Chatfield, J.P. ; W. P. Sommerville, Esq., J.P., and the Controller-General of Prisons. These were all greatly appreciated by the inmates, making a bright and cheerful break in the routine life of the prison. Throughout the year Church services are held regularly each week, and to the ministers of the Anglican, Presbyterian, other branches of the Protestant Churches, the Roman Catholic Clergy, the officers of the Salvation Army who have visited us from time to time we are deeply indebted. In conclusion, I am pleased to report that the conduct of the staff has been excellent and a high standard of discipline maintained throughout the year. The clerical work of the institution has been carried out efficiently by the office staff. Wi Tako Prison, Heretatjnga. (Superintendent, Mr. A. St. P. Jordan.) Due no doubt to improved economic conditions, the year under review has seen a further decline in the prison population, the daily average for the year being 40-5 inmates, as against 46-6 for the previous year. During the year 97 prisoners were received, whilst 102 were discharged under the following headings : 32 on expiration of sentence, 30 on special remission. 31 on recommendation of Prisons Board, and 9 transferred to other institutions. Two prisoners were admitted to hospital during the year, one a drug addict (Chinese) and the other an accident case, otherwise the health of the prisoners has been excellent, any minor ailments being attended to by the Medical Officer during his regular visits. The conduct and industry of the prisoners have been satisfactory. The Visiting Justices dealt with 5 cases of minor breaches of the regulations. Owing chiefly to improved prices for wool and produce there was an increase in revenue from the farming section, approximately £2,870 having been received from sales, whilst the institution has been self-supporting in regard to vegetables, potatoes, meat, milk, and firewood. The small muster makes it increasingly difficult to maintain the farm in good condition, but a flame-thrower has been of great service in checking gorse and second growth, especially on portion of the Defence leasehold, where stony conditions make other methods almost impracticable. No new development-work has been undertaken. Ministers and laymen of various denominations visited the prison regularly to attend to the spiritual welfare of the prisoners, and thanks are due to these gentlemen for the interest displayed. Concerts were provided by the Rev. Mr. Harding's party and the Salvation Army, and these, as usual, have been a welcome break in the routine. In addition, the inmates have the privilege of listening to the radio on two evenings per week, and also on Saturday afternoons and Sundays. During the year the prison was visited by the Chief Placement Officer, Wellington, who gave a talk on the scope and objects of the Placement Service with a view to assisting in the rehabilitation of prisoners after release. Donations of Christmas cheer from the Salvation Army, St. Vincent de Paul Society, Rev. Mr. Harding, and Mr. W. P. Sommerville were very acceptable, as was the special extra issue of tobacco provided by the Department. In conclusion, I would like to thank members of the stafl for their loyal co-operation. Addington Reformatory Prison (Women). (Superintendent, Miss M. Hewitt.) At the beginning of the year there were ] 1 females in custody, 27 were admitted during the year, and 26 were discharged, leaving 12 females in custody at the end of the year, the daily average for the year being 9-12. The health of the inmates has been good, the only cases of sickness being mild colds, and two cases of alcoholism. There were no admissions to the public hospital during the year. The conduct of the inmates throughout the year has been good, and all have worked well. The alterations and improvements to the laundry were completed last May. A new electric washing-machine and drying-room have been installed, enabling us, in spite of the small musters prevailing, to again undertake a considerable amount of laundering for various Government Departments. I am pleased to report that the institution library has been enlarged and improved, and our thanks are due to the many friends of the institution who have always so kindly kept us supplied with books and magazines. In this respect .1 should like to mention Mrs. Tomlinson, who was mtrumental in obtaining a grant of Lord Nuffield's money from the Mayor of Christchurch with which to purchase

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