H.—l9.

10. MOBILIZATION PREPARATIONS. Plans for the mobilization of the land Forces—that is, for their transition from a peace to a war footing —are proceeding steadily and our plans are well advanced. The measures taken are being co-ordinated with the action of other Government Departments through the Organization for National Security. The expansion of the Territorial Force which is at present being carried out will help a great deal to ensure prompt and effective mobilization ; but the expansion must also include more Regular Staff, more trained leaders, and more warlike stores as well as more men. 11. CONSTRUCTIONAL WORK AND ACCOMMODATION. (a) Drill-halls. Although drill-halls exist in most towns of any size and are possibly adequate as regards actual space for the requirements of the expanded Territorial Force, the majority are comfortless places with few or no amenities for social activities. Modern accommodation at all drill centres, including both adequate training-facilities and the provision of social and recreational facilities, is a most important factor in raising and maintaining the general tone of a voluntary Force. Men arc joining up now ; but the problem of retaining them for three years and making them efficient is largely dependent on the provision of attractive accommodation at training centres. An extensive programme for repairs and reconstruction has been prepared; it should be implemented as soon as possible. (b) Coast Defences. The second phase of the development of the coast defences is well advanced, contracts having been let for the major works at Lyttelton, while the smaller works in that vicinity are approaching completion. Arrangements are in hand for the provision of the necessary accommodation for the garrisons at the Wellington and Lyttelton defences. (c) Ordnance Store Buildings and Workshops. The new carpenters' workshop at Trentham, Main Ordnance Depot, is under construction. The first section of the large Ordnance store building at Trentham is nearing completion, and a contract has been let for the second section. The completion of this store will alleviate the serious shortage of storage space at Trentham, and will at the same time make available additional barrack-rooms for the accommodation of troops attending the Schools of Instruction. A contract has also been let for the first section of a similar Ordnance store at Burnham. (d) Other Works and Buildings. This year has seen the transfer of Army Headquarters, Central and Southern Military District Headquarters, to more commodious premises. The work of improvements to accommodation at Narrow Neck, Trentham, and Burnham has been continued, and considerable modernization and enlargement of messing and storage facilities are contemplated. Further requirements include garages for anti-aircraft equipment now on order, and for mechanical vehicles, medical-inspection blocks, messes, barrack-rooms, and stores. 12. ADMINISTRATION SERVICES : ORDNANCE. (a) Duties. There has been a considerable increase in Ordnance work during the last eight months. Equipment tables for all Territorial units except Artillery have been prepared, and the issue of equipment is proceeding. Camp-equipment stocks have been completely revised in the light of the altered establishments, and considerable purchases have been effected. (b) Personnel. Consequent upon the increase in the establishment of the Territorial Force and the continuous work that will have to be done in the future in connection with preparations for mobilization, a considerable increase in staff is necessary. (c) Credits. The sum of £41,705 19s. lOd. has been received for sale of rifles, ammunition, cordite, cloth, trimmings, waste products, &c. (d) Arms. A supply of short M.L.E. Mark 111 heavy Lithgow barrels and of M.L.E. converted Lithgow barrels has been received from the Australian Government for sale to members of Defence rifle clubs. The first consignment of Bren guns having been received from England, an armourers' course on this particular type of gun was held in February last.

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