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1917. NEW ZEALAND.

DEFENCE FORCES OF NEW ZEALAND. REPORT OF THE GENERAL OFFICER COMMANDING THE FORCES, FROM 1st JUNE, 1916, TO 31st MAY, 1917.

Presented to both Houses of the General Assembly by Command of His Excellency.

Sir, — Headquarters, New Zealand Military Forces, Wellington, 17th July, 1917. I have the honour to submit herewith the annual report on the Defences Forces. The report covers the period from the date of last year's report to the 31st May, 1917. Regular Reinforcements have been despatched monthly during the year to maintain our Forces in the field. It is a matter for thankfulness and congratulation that again during the military year ending the 31st May, 1917, no serious accident or delay has occurred in despatch or during transit of the transport or freight ships to their destinations or on returning ships conveying invalids back to the Dominion. From reports and memoranda from reliable military authorities in the United Kingdom, France, and Egypt it is satisfactory to know that the class of men and their training supplied by the New Zealand Forces have been pronounced very good. Minor defects or differences of opinion as to the training have regularly been adjusted by the method of- a complete report on the training of each draft being forwarded to arrive with the draft concerned. In return, changes in training requirements and methods are regularly received from abroad, and are at once put into practice in the training-camps. The work and responsibilities of the various branches of the Defence Department continue to increase. During the year it: was necessary to establish a special section for recruiting under the ballot system of the Military Service Act. This is at present situated in the Wairarapa Farmers' Co-operative Association Buildings, Lambton Quay, and is working in close co-operation and harmony with the Recruiting Board, the Government Statistician, and Registration and Ballot Offices. The method and details for demobilization and the reversion of the Military Forces to a peace footing, both as regards personnel and material at the conclusion of the war, is having due consideration, and will be in readiness when the time arrives. It gives me great pleasure to bring to your notice the continued and excellent work of the Board of Advice re Munitions and Supplies, Financial Assistance Board, Discharged Soldiers' Employment Bureau, Base Records, War Expenses Branch, Transport Board, Embarkation and Disembarkation staffs, Shipping Section, Camp and Barrack Construction, Military Service and Medical Boards, and the Harbour Board, in which many voluntary officials and staff so willingly labour in a manner which has proved itself by the efficient results achieved, Ever)- credit is due to the staff and other ranks of the Defence Department, military, civil, and temporary, serving in all branches of the Defence Forces throughout the Dominion and in the training-camps, many of whom are Territorial officers, not themselves eligible for foreign service but relieving the regular permanent staff. It is entirely due to (he loyal work of the above, their cheerful co-operation night and day, early or late, that the strenuous duties in this unprecedented emergency are on the whole being so smoothly carried out. I also desire to express my appreciation of the very cordial assistance accorded by the civil Departments of the Public Service of the State in the many varied and often urgent demands made upon their time and material. The thanks of the Defence Department are due to the officers and crews, on the troop transports and freight ships conveying troops, also to all workers ashore, and the waterside, who have so well laboured to refit, load, and man the above ships, enabling them to be despatched generally up to time and perfectly seaworthy in every respect. 1 have, &c, A. W. Robin, Major-General, Commanding New Zealand Military Forces. The Hon. the Minister of Defence, Wellington, New Zealand.

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SECTION I.—THE DOMINION SECTION OF THE IMPERIAL GENERAL STAFF. 1. Drill and Parades. Notwithstanding the great difficulties inseparable from the present abnormal strain, the drills and parades of both the Territorial and Cadet Forces have been, carried out satisfactorily during the past training-year. The majority of officers of both forces have displayed an encouraging spirit of keenness, evidenced by the record attendances they have made at district camps of instruction. Both forces have been handicapped by reason of so many experienced officers having joined the Expeditionary Force, This has been largely compensated for by the reduced size of units, brought about by the number of exemptions from military training granted by the Defence Department. These have been granted in all cases where undue hardships would otherwise have been inflicted on a man or employer engaged in essential industries, The officer of to-day must necessarily also be an instructor. Unless those under his command recognize his professional superiority it is impossible to expect intelligent work or good discipline. Apart from this it is essential that the military work be made so interesting as to appeal to the imagination of the soldier. This is recognized by the majority of senior officers. Junior officers, as far as possible, are not permitted to lend or instruct until thoroughly versed in all branches of military work. This principle lias been accepted by the majority of the junior officers in a most satisfactory spirit, and will produce good results. A considerable improvement has taken place in regard to discipline, and, considering the difficulties of the present abnormal time, the machinery of Territorial and Cadet training has worked smoothly and with excellent results. 2. Tebkitobial Training-camps. In conformation with the policy of the Defence Department, and acting on the knowledge within its possession, it was considered essential to hold the annual training-camps. Every possible endeavour was made to place the minimum strain on both employer and employee engaged in essential industries. The most careful arrangements were also made to ensure that as few employees as possible from any particular firm attended camp at any one time. Those Territorials who were not entitled to total exemption were permitted to attend camps at any time between the Ist February and 31st May. The Territorial soldier employed in an essential industry was given the opportunity of electing to attend (a) the camp of his own unit, (b) that of some other unit, (c) a casual camp. The additional heavy strain thrown on a depleted Territorial training staff by reason of the necessity for granting such liberal concessions to the individual Territorial soldier will be appreciated. Thanks to the spirit and energy with which the Staff has worked, all difficulties were surmounted and good results obtained. A large proportion of (hose attending camps were recruits, many of whom had little military experience. The advantage of giving these Territorials the benefit of a week's fresh air and exercise, in addition to military training and discipline, was most apparent. The opinion has been expressed that the loss of labour due to the week spent in camp fry an employee is more than compensated for by his increased power for work as a result of the physical and military training in the open. Tin' results achieved in such a short training were extraordinarily good in the majority of cases. The health of the Territorial troops in camps has again been excellent. The localities of camps held throughout the Dominion are given in Appendix C, which will be printed separately and submitted as a supplement. Thanks are dm: to the landowners who allowed the troops to camp and train on their lands. On the completion of the main animal camps casual camps were held for those men who were unable to attend the camps of units. The Commandant and Chief of the General Staff were unable to visit many camps owing to pressure of war work. The majority were, however, visited by the Director of Military Training. As a proof of the necessity for holding the Territorial camps at a time when military discipline and efficiency is of paramount importance, it may be mentioned that more than 300 officers and over 12,000 other ranks who attended the Territorial camps during 1916 have been enlisted in the Expeditionary Force. Of those trained this year an even greater proportion will join the Expeditionary Force. To ensure units working on the same lines a syllabus of training was issued from Headquarters which provided that the work should be of a systematic and elementary nature suitable for the age and experience of the average Territorial recruit under existing conditions. The work seen in camp was good, and all ranks appeared keen and anxious to become efficient. The standard of discipline has been high. The policy of concentrating the best instructors for each unit camp was again adopted, and proved economical and valuable in practice. All ranks of the Expeditionary Force owe much to the training they have received in the Territorial Force. The greatest credit is due to the officers and non-conimissioned officers of the Headquarters and District Staff and units, particularly those who have returned from active service, who have worked efficiently and well to help forward (he efficiency of the Territorial Force in the face of great difficulties, and in spite of the added strain brought about by (he Military Service Act. The arrangements for the attendance of Medical Officers at the various camps were satisfactory, and the work performed by the Medical Officers extremely creditable. The sanitary arrangements of all camps inspected were found to be excellent. The various religious denominations were represented at the camps, and amongst others the V.M.C.A., C.E.M.S., and Salvation Army had institutions in the majority of the camps.

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The added interest and amusement these institutions provide the soldiers is of incalculable value, and the best thanks are due to all concerned for the work which they did and the recreation they provided. 3. Training generally of the Territorial Force*. Although the Territorial Force has been still further depleted of a large number of its permanent officers, those who remain have made every effort to increase the efficiency of their units. A certain number of officers and non-commissioned officers have rejoined their units from the Expeditionary Force, and are doing useful work. The up-to-date knowledge and military value of these officers and non-commissioned officers will be appreciated. Every possible endeavour has been made on the part of the Headquarters and District Staffs to give officers the vi »1 assistance in regard to the latest teachings and lessons of modern war and training by means of Staff, district, and regimental exercises. These were conducted by the Director of Military Training and the General Staff Officers of all districts, and have proved of the utmost value to all concerned, particularly to those officers who will serve with the Expeditionary Force. The majority of the officers of the Territorial Force have every opportunity to benefit by these courses of instruction, the effect of which has been most noticeable in the unit camps. The work of the officers of the New Zealand Staff Corps and non-commissioned officers of the Permanent Staff in the instruction of the Territorial Force and Cadets has been most satisfactory. Officers and non-commissioned officers temporarily posted for duty with the Permanent Force have made considerable improvement, and in the majority of cases have worked with zeal and efficiency. Since the introduction of the Military Service Act it has been recognized that the majority of the Territorial Force will be required to serve in the Expeditionary Force. The whole effort of the Territorial Staff is therefore being directed to send the Territorial officer, the noncommissioned officer, and soldier into the Expeditionary Force with a satisfactory standard of discipline and individual efficiency. 4. Staff, District, and Regimental Exercises. A district exercise for the instruction of senior Territorial Force and Cadet officers was held in each of the four military districts under the direction of the Director of Military Training. One hundred and sixty senior officers attended the four exercises. Apart from other advantages, these exercises tend to ensure a uniform system of training throughout the Territorial and Cadet Forces in the Dominion. Commanding Officers were encouraged in uvvry way to hold regimental exercises for the instruction of their officers and non-commissioned officers, and it is hoped that good results will be obtained. In addition each district held courses of instruction for the officers and non-commissioned officers of the Permanent and Temporary Staff, and for the instruction of officers and noncommissioned officers of Territorial and Cadet units prior to the annual camps, and to certain examinations. The Wellington and Canterbury Districts were again particularly successful in regard to their courses, which produced good results. The experiment was tried in (he Wellington District of brigading all machine-gun detachments in one camp of instruction. This proved most successful, and much valuable work was done. 5. Mounted Rifles. Considering the shortage of experienced officers, and the inexperience of tin: majority of the rank and file, the progress made by Mounted Rifle units during the past training-year can be considered as satisfactory. Instruction lias been confined to elementary mounted and dismounted drill, horsemanship, &c. The large percentage of recruits to be found in the Mounted Rifle ranks has considerably accentuated the vital importance of maintaining the Territorial training. Owing to the keenness and good work of officers and non-commissioned officers, and the soldierly spirit prevailing in the'majority of units, the annual training gave sufficient opportunity to bring units to a satisfactory standard of discipline and efficiency, and enabled them to retain the regimental traditions so essential to military efficiency. 6. Territorial Field Artillery. (a.) Field Artillery Cadres. During the year the Royal New Zealand Artillery Cadres have been replaced by temporary men enlisted from returned soldiers and men unfit for the Expeditionary Force. These recruits were pul through a course of training at the Field Artillery Depot, Wellington, for four months, and are now stationed with the various cadres. This lias enabled the balance of the Royal New Zealand Artillery (Field Section) to join the Expeditionary Force Reinforcement drafts. (b.) Buildings. The cadre buildings throughout the Dominion are in good repair, and are practically complete, with the exception of Palmerston North, where the drill-shed has not yet been erected.

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(c.) Territorial Field Artillery. Since last report it has been found possible to provide uniform for all recruits. All batteries have carried out their full course of evening drills during the year, and also the half-day parades. In the case of the Auckland Brigade the half-day parades were postponed and made up by four extra days in camp. Annua] training-camps have been completed by all batteries. Training is considerably handicapped by lack of equipment, but the state of efficiency shown during camp was surprising considering the personnel is of only one to two years' training, and considering also the lack of equipment. Shell practice was carried on by all batteries during camp, fifty rounds being allotted to each battery. The practice was entirely of an instructional nature, and was conducted deliberately so that the utmost instruction could be obtained from the small amount of ammunition available. On the whole the practice was good considering the limited training and experience of the non-commissioned officers and men. Owing to the absence of so many of our Field Artillery officers with the Expeditionary Force, there is a shortage of officers right through the Dominion. A few young officers are coming in under the first-appointment scheme, and several temporary appointments have been made. Every battery has now sufficient officers to carry on the training. The prominent feature of the Field Artillery is the continued keenness of all ranks to make themselves efficient and the readiness with which extra time is given for training. This spirit is reflected very noticeably in the Reinforcement drafts of the Expeditionary Force. (d.) School Cadet Artillery. The training of the Cadets is being carried out in conjunction with their parent batteries, and the material on issue is at their disposal when not required for Territorial purposes. A keen interest is shown in all work. No allowance of ammunition was made this year for shell practice for the Cadets, but, where possible, Artillery Cadets were present at the shooting of their parent batteries. 7. Garrison Artillery. During the year four non-commissioned officers and men have been killed in action in France; eleven non-commissioned officers and men have been invalided to New Zealand, discharged from the Expeditionary Force, and reabsorbed into the strength of the Royal New Zealand Artillery. Of the latter, three have subsequently been discharged from the regiment as medically unfit, and also one who returned last year. (a.) Enlistments. Enlistments in the Field Artillery Section have been suspended during the war. In the other sections in the Royal New Zealand Artillery men under twenty are enlisted, and of these only three have been taken on. (b.) Home Service Section, New Zealand Expeditionary Force, attacJied to lloyal New Zealand Artillery. When it was known that all remaining non-commissioned officers and men belonging to Division 1, Expeditionary Force Reserve, were to go into camp, permission was given to enlist for home service a number of men ineligible for active service, to replace those about to go into camp, and some sixty men were enlisted and trained for three months, when they relieved the regular members of the Royal New Zealand Artillery who proceeded to camp on the 6th February, 1917. These home-service recruits were required to serve on probation for two months before being finally accepted, and a number were found to be unsatisfactory. A few others were not physically strong enough to undergo the training. On the whole, however, the scheme has been successful. Concerning the home-service details attached to the Garrison Section, Royal New Zealand Artillery, the method of enlistment and training were, owing to special circumstances, somewhat different from those employed with the Field Artillery. All members of the Royal New Zealand Artillery who were in the First Division of the Military Service Act proceeded to camp on the 6th February, 1917. Home-service men were enlisted to replace the Royal New Zealand Artillery, Garrison Section. A preference for enlistment has always been given to returned soldiers, and with this object in view the various returned soldiers' associations and clubs were communicated with, but the response has not come up to expectations. Owing to the different duties, including the furnishing of sentries over detention prisoners, escorts and guards over places of military importance, the training of the Garrison Artillery Home Section details has not progressed very rapidly,.but they are now proving useful as District Gunners, and are acquiring a knowledge of range-finding and gun-laying. As shown in the report upon the Territorial Garrison Artillery, the trained non-commissioned officers and men have almost all gone on active service. Those remaining are composed of the postings of the last two years. Fortunately there still remain a number of Royal New Zealand Artillery non-commissioned officers and soldiers with long service capable of supplying a stiffening of trained signallers, layers, and electric-light specialists. All non-commissioned officers not detailed for special duty have charge of portions of the coast-defence works and keep ledgers relating to the armament. Under them are trained

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gunners who, assisted by home-service men, keep the armament, electric lights, telephones, and various instruments in an efficient condition. Both non-commissioned officers and gunners instruct Territorials, and their efforts require to be greater than in peace owing to the Territorial gunners, as they become old enough, joining Reinforcements, the work of training then having to be commenced again with fresh men. 8. Engineers. (a.) Field Companies. The work of the Field Engineers has been most satisfactory, and has been characterized by up-to-date instruction and work. The shortage of experienced officers and non-commissioned officers has been largely compensated for by the energy and military keenness of those remaining. The field-work has been particularly good. More attention has been paid in the majority of units to close-order drill and elementary recruit and musketry instruction. (b.) Signal Units. The Signal units have been considerably handicapped for lack of equipment. Notwithstanding this the)' have performed useful training-work, and the standard of discipline and individual efficiency has been satisfactory. The importance of Signal units to a modern army is now better understood, and as a result an increasing interest has been shown by all ranks. (o.) Railway Battalions. The work and training of the Railway Battalions has been carried out continuously during the past season. The lack of instructors and the shortage of experienced officers, owing to the majority having volunteered for active service, has added to the difficulties, although it is fully recognized that these features were unavoidable in the circumstances. Training has been continued throughout, and the men have received instructions in infantry drill, musketry, and elementary military engineering. A fair proportion of the whole strength has been exercised in the annual musketry course, the interest of the men having been considerably encouraged in this branch of training through the provision of the Railway Department of 25-yards miniature ranges at the four centres. Week-end camps have been held where the conditions permitted, and the benefits derived from this means of giving a reasonably long period of continuous training are such as to justify every encouragement. The latest figures available show that forty-one officers and 838 men of the battalions have volunteered for active service, and are away from the battalions. It is considered that, having regard to the difficulties experienced, several companies have made steady improvement, and, generally speaking, the officers have devoted much time and labour to holding their commands together, and maintained the standard of efficiency which they had attained at the outbreak of the war. Opportunity was given several of the junior probationary officers to submit themselves for Examination " A " before being confirmed in their appointment, and in the majority of cases they did well, showing that they had taken advantage of the limited opportunities available to increase their efficiency. • (d.) Post and Telegraph Corps. The work of the Post and Telegraph Engineer Corps has been of a highly satisfactory nature ami more advanced than heretofore. The fact of having so man}' members of the corps on active service—twenty-two commissioned officers and 843 other ranks —many of whom have earned distinction and honour on the battlefield, has had a most stimulating effect. The members filling the ranks in New Zealand recognize how very real, necessary, and important the work they are doing as signallers is in modern warfare. The fact that members are selected for the wireless services abroad has opened up another legitimate channel of proving their worth, of which they are taking full advantage. Wireless classes under the guidance of able instructors (gentlemen highly skilled and having the necessary technical qualifications and holding important positions in the Post and Telegraph Service) have been formed in the chief centres with good results. It has been realized by officers and men that the military work for which they are most suited from the very nature of their daily duties is signalling in all branches, consequently concentration has been brought to bear on this side of the service with the most gratifying results, as shown by the number of Post and Telegraph Engineer Corps men selected for signalling-work at the front in preference to all others. The corps is an excellent training-ground for members joining the Expeditionary Force. 9. Infantry. The work performed by all ranks during the present training-year has been most creditable. Several units inspected were found to have considerably increased their standard in discipline and efficiency since last year. In only a few cases was it found that units had declined in this respect. The discipline of the majority of units has been excellent, an increasing improvement being made in this direction. When the great difficulties of the present abnormal times, the shortage of experienced officers and non-commissioned officers, and the reduced training-time caused

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through the necessity for interfering with civil labour as little as possible, are taken into consideration, the results can only be considered as most satisfactory. Certain battalions are undoubtedly leading in discipline and efficiency, and it is generally recognized that the spirit and efficiency of a unit depend almost entirely on its officers. The work performed in the annual camps was elementary in character and suited to the age and experience of the majority of the Territorial soldiers, the great bulk of whom were recruits. An attempt on the part of certain officers to proceed to higher training was stopped and specific instructions issued to prevent any waste of time. These instructions also insisted on young officers being put through a recruit course until passed by the Adjutant as fit to instruct their men. Almost without exception the standard of efficiency and discipline attained within the week's training was extraordinarily high, and fully justified the expense and difficulty of holding these camps. The opportunities afforded officers and non-commissioned officers to increase their know ledge of leadership and administration, and the increased discipline and efficiency of the Territorial, will prove of the utmost, value when they are ultimately required for service with the Expeditionary Force. 10. Musketry. The musketry returns have not yet been completed, consequently the standard reached cannot be ascertained. A definite opinion as to results is therefore premature, but it is expected that the standard will be approximately that of last year. The "Solano" ranger is proving of the utmost value for the training of the Cadets, and useful work has been performed with the '22 rifles for miniature cartridges. Prizes for shooting wore awarded in proportion to the strength of the Territorial, Cadet, and Rifle Club forces. This system resulted in the Cadets winning the greater proportion. This will considerably add to the musketry efficiency of the Cadet, and give him a zest for shooting. 11. Rifle Clubs. There are now 231 Rilie Clubs in the Dominion. Considering the number of members who have volunteered and enlisted in the Expeditionary Force, and the abnormal strain of the present time, this is satisfactory. The clubs have contributed in other ways to recruiting, and have been the means of training men who, while beyond the age necessary for the Reserve, wish to serve their country in an emergency. The outstanding claim of the Expeditionary and Territorial Forces has considerably limited available range accommodation and musketry essentials. It speaks highly for the spirit animating Rifle Clubs in all parts that, despite the disabilities under which they have laboured owing to the stress of war, they still retain their keenness in a high elegree, and lose no opportunity of improving the efficiency of their shooting. 12. Courses of Instruction at Secondary Schools. At the invitation of the headmasters of the Wanganui and Waitaki Schools a four-day course of instruction was held at both schools by the Director of Military Training. This officer assumed entire charge of the schools during the period of instruction, and they became to all intents and purposes military barracks. Notwithstanding the pressure of war work, it was considered necessary to hold these " barracks," for the following reasons : — (a.) The claims of the Expeditionary Force. Many of the Cadets in secondary schools are approaching military-service age, and are prevented by school-work from benefiting by the better instruction given in the Territorial units. It was considered that these Cadets would derive great benefit from such a course of military instruction. (t>.) The importance of a high standard of discipline and efficiency in secondary-school units. In view of the fact that secondary schools offer the best medium for the instruction of Cadets, and that from their ranks the Defence Force should expect a large percentage of its young officers in the future, it is of the utmost importance that a systematic and universal system of training be adopted by all secondary schools, in addition to a high standard of discipline and efficiency. The reports of the headmasters concerned testify to the excellent effect these " barracks " have had on the Cadets and the immense value the educational authorities concerned place upon the object aimed, at. Both reports are unanimous in their expressions of approval of the work of the officers responsible for the success of these " barracks." The utmost credit is due to the school authorities concerned. It is unquestionable that the influence of these " barracks " will be far-reaching in the future. Much useful work was done during the "barracks"; discipline and health were excellent in both cases, and it is hoped that similar courses will be held in other secondary schools during the next training season. 13. Officers ok the New Zealand Forces serving with the Imperial Army. The officers of the Royal New Zealand Artillery and New Zealand Staff Corps, who were in England on the outbreak of war, are now all employed with the New Zealand Expeditionary Force.

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14. Royal Military College of Australia. There are at present twenty-nine Staff Cadets from New Zealand at the Royal Military College of Australia. The full quota of ten joined this year. One cadet of the 1915 class was withdrawn as he was not up to the standard required. The three 191'! Cadets are now with the Expeditionary Force. The 1 911 Cadets who were withdrawn in April, 1916, are now all under orders to proceed with the Expeditionary Forces. The New Zealand Cadets are more than holding their own at the Duntroon College. The Commandant of the College speaks most highly of them, and expresses his appreciation of the manner in which they have worked. One Cadet is first in his class and another second. 15. Examination of Officers for Promotion. (a.) Officers of the Boyal New Zealand Artillery and New Zealand Staff Corps. No examination for officers of the above corps will be held during the war. (b.) Territorial Officer*. In August, 1916, 67 officers presented themselves for examination, and 31 passed. 23 failed in one subject, 6 in two subjects, 5 in three subjects, and 2 in four subjects. In February, 1917, 34 officers sat, and IS passed. I I failed in one subject, 2 in two subjects, 2 in three subjects, and 1 in four subjects. From the Ist May, 1916, to April, I!) 17, officers have qualified in practical work as follows: 8 for Lieutenant-Colonel, 18 for Major, 25 for Captain, and 108 for Lieutenant. (c.) Examination for First Appointment to Commission. In the latter part of 1916 it was decided to alter the system of conducting this examination. The custom was to complete the whole of l Ik' examination at one session; but owing to the large number of candidates it was found that the time available was not sufficient, therefore it was decided to hold the examination in two sessions. At Ihe first session candidates were to be examined in oral work only, and at the second they were to do their written work. Candidates were required to pass in their oral work before being permitted to sit for written work. The first examination under this system has just been completed, with the following results:— In August, 1916, I -11 candidates sa.t for (he oral portion of (his examination and 102 passed. In February, 1917, the written portion of the examination was held, when 74 candidates presented themselves, 26 of whom passed. These candidates are now fully qualified for appointment as 2nd Lieutenants in the Territorial Force. In February, 1917, 1(12 sat in oral work and 62 passed. The 62 are now eligible to sit for (he written portion of this examination in August, 1917. The results of the examination;; are, on the whole, disappointing, as a large number of candidates failed to qualify. It is quite apparent that some of the candidates are not up to the standard required, which clearly shows that further study on their part is required. The greatest credit is due to the officer in charge of examination duties and the Topographical Section at Headquarters for the work performed during the past year. 16. Harbour Defences. The existing armament in the coast defences throughout New Zealand is clean and well cared for; the guns are ready for instant action; ammunition is sufficient for possible requirements; range-finding instruments (except a few old ones used for instructing recruits) are in adjustment; and range and order dials are correct and serviceable. The electrical engines, dynamos, projectors, &C, are all well cared for, and are in proper working-order. The Defence vessels at each of the defended ports are in good running-order, except at Auckland, where the s.s. " Lady Roberts " is undergoing overhaul. The efficiency of the New Zealand Garrison Artillery throughout (he Dominion has been affected by the reduction of the trained personnel, due to most of the officers, non-commissioned officers, and gunners of Expeditionary Force age having joined different Reinforcements. The deficiencies in numbers were made up to a certain extent by larger postings of Cadets last year. To compensate for the shortage of officers, officers from the Retired hist and Reserve have been attached, and in some cases temporary appointments have been given to gentlemen with some previous military experience. These officers in most cases have devoted much extra time to duty, and have attended classes of instruction to make themselves proficient. "Weekly drills have been carried out, and half-day or whole-day parades are held approximately once a month. With the exception of that of No. 8 Company, at Westport, no annual camps have been held, but the soldiers called up for continuous duty spend a portion of each day receiving instructions, which has compensated for the training they would have received at an annual camp. The forts throughout the Dominion have been inspected by the Director of Military Training. The gun drill, gun practice, discipline and efficiency of all ranks, and the condition of the forts and equipment were found to be most satisfactory. The calls of the Expeditionary Force 115)011 the ranks of the New Zealand Garrison Artillery have been heavy, but arrangements have been made to rectify this. 17. Next Year's Training. During the coining year it is intended to devote particular attention to the instruction and training of the officers and non-commissioned officers of the Cadet and Territorial Forces. The

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higher the standard of efficiency of an officer or non-commissioned officer the higher the efficiency of those under his command, and the more economical a unit becomes in life and treasure. By means of Diminion and District exercises it is hoped to give careful training to all those responsible for the future instruction of the Territorial and Cadet Forces. The present war has taken from the Dominion the large majority of the most experienced officers and non-oommissioned officers and soldiers of the Territorial and Cadet Forces, only a percentage of whom have yet returned. As a. result the bulk of the rank and file now serving in the ranks of the Territorial Force are recruits. This hns in consequence reduced the standard of efficiency, and the training required from unit officers is of an elementary and individual nature. It has long been recognized in all armies that upon this preliminary training depends the whole future success of a regiment or army. Faulty or too advanced a standard of training must result in indifferent or superficial soldiers. The greatest care is therefore being taken to ensure that all officers of both forces realize their responsibility in this matter, and are qualified or become qualified to undertake the training of those under their charge. A Dominion Staff exercise will again he held for senior Staff Officers, followed by a district exercise in all four districts, which will be attended by senior regimental officers. These will bo held by the Director of Military Training. Following these exercises will come the usual district refresher courses, which will ensure all members of the Permanent and Temporary Staff, and all officers and non-commissioned officers of the Territorial and Cadet Forces, being up to date and competent as instructors prior to the annual training of their units. SECTION II.—THE DEPARTMENT OF THE ADJUTANT-GENERAL TO THE FORCES. 18. Royal New Zealand Artillery. The establishment of officers of the regiment of Royal New Zealand Artillery is fourteen. The present strength is twenty, or six over establishment. Only five of these are on duty in New Zealand with the regiment, fourteen being on active service and one in the Expeditionary Force camps. The latter is a graduate of the Royal Military College of Australia, Duntroon. During the year four officers have been killed in action. The establishment of the regiment other than officers is 295. The present strength is 285. 153 non-commissioned officers and men are serving with the Expeditionary Force. During the year four non-commissioned officers and men have been killed in action. Applicants for enlistment who are of military age for the N.Z.E.F. arc not being accepted during the war, but a number of men who are unfit for. active service have been taken on temporarily in relief of those absent witli the Expeditionary Force. Four men returned from the Expeditionary Force invalided were found unfit for further service in the regiment, and have been discharged accordingly. 19. New Zealand Staff Corps. On the outbreak of war the New Zealand Staff Corps was eighty-four strong; since then seventeen cadets from the Duntroon College have been taken on strength : total, 101. Tin; following table shows the disposition of these in respect to the present war :-— Transferred to Royal New Zealand Artillery and on active service ... 10 Left New Zealand on active service ... ... ... ... ... 74 Now awaiting embarkation for active service ... ... ... ... 3 Retained in New Zealand to (ill special appointment ... ... ... 3 Retired ... ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 1 Unfit for service or over age ... ... ... ... ... 10 101 The following table shows the present disposition of seventy-four officers who left New Zealand on active service :— Killed in action ... ... ... ... ... ... 7 Died of disease ... ... ... ... ... ... 1 Still serving with the Expeditionary Force ... ... ... 45 Invalided to New Zealand and now disposed of as under :— Now on duty in Dominion ... ... ... ... ... 17 Retired ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 2 On leave pending retirement ... ... ... ... ] Still in hospital ... ... ... ... ... 1 — 21 74 At present there are twenty-nine cadets under instruction at the Royal Military College of Australia, Duntroon, who will receive commissions in the New Zealand Staff Corps as they qualify. • As the establishment at present authorized will not be sufficient to meet future requirements, an increase in the various ranks at the close of the war is under consideration, and it is proposed that a, number of vacancies for Lieutenants be thrown open to the warrant officers and noncommissioned officers of the R.N.Z.A. and N.Z.P.S. in recognition of their services in the commissioned ranks of the Expeditionary Force and in temporary appointments in the Dominion. It is proposed to make appointments to these vacancies on the results of a competitive examination.

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20. New Zealand Permanent Staff. At the outbreak of war the New Zealand Permanent Staff was 214 strong. Since the 4th August, 1914, no permanent appointments have been made to the New Zealand Permanent Staff, all vacancies being filled by temporary instructors who are engaged for the duration of the war. In making the appointments preference as far as possible is given to returned soldiers. The distribution of the New Zealand Permanent Staff is shown as under :— heft New Zealand on active service ... ... ... ... ... 113 Retained on duty in New Zealand ... ... ... ... ... 101 Total ... ... ... ... ... 214 The following shows the disposition of the 113 warrant officers and non-commissioned officers of the New Zealand Permanent Staff who left New Zealand on active service :— Killed in action or died of wounds ... ... ... ... ... 24 Still serving with the Expeditionary Force ... ... ... ... 47 Invalided to New Zealand and now disposed as under : — Reabsorbed in New Zealand Permanent Staff for duty in camps and districts ... ... ... ... ... ... 32 Retired on pension and superannuation ... ... ... ... 1 On sick-leave in New Zealand ... ... ... ... ... 1 Returned to duty with New Zealand Expeditionary Force ... ... 8 Total ... ... ... ... ... ... 113 The disposition of the 101 warrant officers and non-commissioned officers of the New Zealand Permanent Staff who have been retained on duty in New Zealand is as follows : — Employed at General Headquarters... ... ... ... ... 3 Employed in districts, groups, and areas ... ... ... ... 51 Employed in Expeditionary Force training-camps ... ... ... 47 Total ... ... ... ... ... ... 101 The status of those who have been retained for duty in New Zealand is shown as under : — Unfit for active service ... ... ... ... ... ... 25 Fit for active service but Second Division ... ... ... ... 64 Fit and under orders to embark ... ... ... ... ... 12 Total ... ... ... ... ... ... 101 Eight warrant officers and Staff sergeants-major have been granted honorary commissioned rank, and fourteen have been granted temporary commissioned rank (seven in New Zealand and seven in the New Zealand Expeditionary Force). 21. New Zealand Medical Services. There have been sufficient Medical Officers for duty in the Expeditionary Force camps during the year, as medical practitioners throughout the country have loyally come forward when required, and have performed most excellent work, often of a very strenuous character. As regards the Territorial camps, there has been some difficulty occasionally in finding Medical Officers to train with the combatant units, but at any rate Medical Officers have always been forthcoming to supervise the health and treat the sick in the camps. The sanitation of the camps has been excellent, arrangements having been made by which the military Medical Officers and the local Sanitary Inspectors co-operate as regards the sanitary conditions of the various camps and their surroundings. All the Field Ambulance units and a certain number of Territorial regimental medical establishments have this year undergone training at the Expeditionary Force medical trainingcamp at Awapuni, with the result that a high standard of efficiency has been attained. The Awapuni Camp has been equipped with the latest-pattern horse ambulance, water-purification cart, and general-service wagons, as well as with the newest War Office Field Ambulance medical and surgical equipment, so that the officers, non-commissioned officers, and men have been able to familiarize themselves with such equipment as they will be required to use both in France and Egypt. Classes have been arranged in connection with the large camp hospitals where men of the N.Z.M.C. are trained in sick-nursing in the wards, lectures and demonstrations being given by the Medical Officers and the Sisters. The Officers' Training Corps (Medical) of the Otago University has made an excellent start, with a strength at first of about 130 Cadets, but which owing to the war has since been reduced to eighty. These Cadet officers have already reached a most creditable standard of efficiency, twenty-eight out of thirty-six who presented themselves for the "A" certificate examination having passed and gained certificates. A Defence Medical Stores has been established in Buckle Street. From these stores drugs and medical and surgical appliances are issued to the various camps, convalescent homes, hospital ships and transports, resulting in a great saving of money and an increase in efficiency. The Expeditionary Force camps are now provided with up-to-date hospitals for the treatment of both general and infectious diseases. A bacteriological laboratory is established in each camp under experienced bacteriologists, with a view to detecting and isolating cases of

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infectious disease at the earliest possible moment. Inhaling-rooms have also been established at the larger camps, and also on the transports and hospital ships, with a view to the prevention and treatment of cerebro-spinal meningitis, influenza, and sore throat. These have been satisfactory, as no case of cerebro-spinal disease has occurred on any of the transports since their adoption. Isolation camps have also been established to which contacts in infectious disease are retained until they are proved free from infection. An Assistant Director Medical Services (Sanitary) has been added to the Staff of the DirectorGeneral Medical Services at Headquarters. His services have been of the greatest use in delivering lectures on sanitation in the camp and in generally supervising sanitary conditions. There was a good deal of influenza and measles in the camps last year, but these diseases are now in abeyance. There had been a certain amount of gastritis and stomachic disorders in Featherston Camp early last year, but thanks to the measures adopted by Professor Kirk in the destruction of flies these complaints have practically disappeared. There was a certain amount of cerebro-spinal meningitis in both Featherston and Trentham last year —twenty-one in Featherston and thirty cases in Trentham, of which sixteen and twentyone died—but the disease has now been in abeyance for four months. 22. New Zealand Army Nursing Service. The Matron-in-Chief, Miss H. Maclean, has staffed the hospitals at Trentham and Featherston, and also Rotorua, with a sufficient supply of Sisters and Staff Nurses, who have done most excellent work not only in treating the sick, but in training the orderlies for the Reinforcements in nursing duties. 23. Strength of the Forces. The strength of the New Zealand Defence Forces on the 30th April, 1917, was as under: — Territorial Force ... ... ... ... ... ... 22,174 Senior Cadets ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 29,832 Rifle Clubs . ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 7,975 The whole of the General Training Section has been posted to the Territorial Force. The figures quoted do not include any part of the Expeditionary Force Reinforcements under training in the Dominion. 24. Districts and Groups Organization. Under the Military Service Act, 1916, it became necessary to divide the whole of the Dominion into recruiting districts, and it was decided to make this division coincide with the existing county boundaries. The original organization of the Dominion into groups and areas under the Defence Act of 1909 had provided for the exemption of certain areas, in which training could not be economically carried out. As the latter organization could not be made to fit in with the requirements of the Military Service Act it was abandoned, and on the 25th September, 1916, the whole of the Dominion was divided into four districts and twenty-one groups, with the effect that each of the latter now corresponds to a recruiting district and embraces certain complete counties. The districts and groups staffs now consist almost entirely of Permanent and Territorial officers who are unfit for active service. Wherever suitable returned soldiers, non-commissioned officers, and men are appointed to such vacancies as occur from time to time in these staffs. The relief of fit officers for service abroad, and the setting-up of the machinery under the Military Service Act, has necessitated many changes. Notwithstanding this drawback, and despite the steadily increasing volume of administrative work due to the Military Service Act and the development of the war, the staffs in the districts and groups have dealt with their work in an increasingly efficient manner. 25. Changes in Organization of the Forces. The Department of the Adjutant-General to the Forces has been enormously affected by war conditions, particularly the branches dealing with recruiting, mobilization, discipline, records, casualties, discharges, care and disposal of returned sick and wounded, war pensions, general correspondence. In order to cope with the new conditions it was found necessary to reorganize this Department. The appointments of Assistant Adjutant-General and Deputy Assistant Adjutant-General at Headquarters were abolished, and the War Office system of directorates substituted. The Department now consists of six directorates—namely, those of the Director-General Medical Services, the Director of Personal Services, the Director of Organization, the Director of Recruiting, the Director of Base Records, and the Director Dental Services. This organization is elastic, and has already proved a very sound innovation, and is on the lines indicated by the Inspector-General Oversea Forces on his visit to the Dominion in 1914. 26. LEGISLATION. During the year the following Acts affecting this Department were brought into operation : — The Military Service Act, providing for the raising and maintenance of Expeditionary Forces during the present war : The War Pensions Amendment Act, amending the W T ar Pensions Act, 1915,

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27. Discipline. The discipline of the Territorial Force has been satisfactory during the past year, and there has been a still further reduction in the number of those prosecuted for offences under the Defence Act. The general discipline of the Cadets has also been satisfactory, but there is an increase in the number prosecuted under the Defence Act. This may be attributed, however, more to attention being paid to the detection of shirkers now that the temporary staffs have had time to settle down than to any real fall in the general standard of discipline. 28. Detention. Consequent upon failure to pay fines inflicted by a Magistrate for breaches of the Defence Act, thirty-nine Territorials and ten Senior Cadets were placed in military detention during the period from the Ist May, 1916, to the 30th April, 1917. Of the above, forty-two were committed for the first time, four for the second time, and three for the third time. 29. Prosecutions. Apjendix B gives a return of prosecutions under the Defence Act from the Ist May, 1916, to the 30th April, 1917. During the above period the percentages of convictions to prosecutions were as follows: Territorials, 8733; Senior Cadets, 79"37. (The percentages for the corresponding period of last year were—Territorials, 84 - 35; Senior Cadets, 81*87.) Compared with the figures for the previous period the numbers prosecuted during the twelve months ended 30th April, 1917, show a decrease of 61 in the Territorial Force, and an increase of 344 in the Senior Cadets. 30. Posting. The annual posting for the year 1916-17 was carried out on precisely the same lines as that of the previous year. In addition, it was found necessary to reinforce the Territorials by the transfer to that Force of all men on the strength of the General Training Section. The plan in the past has been to adjust the annual quotas in such a way as to produce a Territorial Force containing seven approximately equal classes of men (namely, those aged 18-19, 19-20, 20-21, 21-22, 22-23, 23-24, and 24-25) so that the inward draft each year would equal the number of those passing to the Reserve in the same year, plus a factor representing the wastage of the latter class during its seven years' colour service. Men not required to complete the annual quotas were posted to the General Training Section. The war has modified this materially; large numbers of Territorials have passed to the Expeditionary Force, and the General Training Section has been absorbed, and this year it is proposed to post the whole of Cadets available to the Territorial Force, whioh on the 30th April was 8" 102 below establishment.

Table of Postings for 1916-17.

31. Registration. Since the commencement of the scheme of universal training up to the 30th April, 1917, the total number of registrations recorded in each of the military districts is as given in detail hereunder. For' Territorial For Senior m . , Force. Cadets. Totals - Auckland District ... ... ... 10,442 20,067 30,509 Canterbury District ... ... ... 7,553 21,001 28,554 Otago District ... ... ... 6,794 14,204 20,998 Wellington District ... ... ... 9,773 24,452 34,225 Totals ... ... 34,562 79,724 114,286 32. Regulations and Publications. Further War Regulations to meet national emergencies consequent upon the continuance of a state of war, and Regulations under the Military Service Act. have been made from time to time by Orders in Council. Under War Regulations Boards of Trustees have been provided for the management and disposition of the business, property, and affairs of soldiers of the New Zealand Expeditionary

District. To Senior Cadets. To General Training Section. To To Territorials, j To Post and Telegraph. Total for District. Luckland lanterbury .. >tago Vellington . . 3,846 2,359 1,479 2,926 1,028 311 512 248 1,102 1,017 1,017 1,933 3 71 73 19 6,050 3,687 3,081 5,132 6 Totals .. 10,610 2,099 5,069 163 17,950

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Forces; and any soldier may appoint any such Board of Trustees as his attorney to exercise in respect of his property, business, or affairs such powers of management, sale, lease, or disposition as may be mutually agreed on between the soldier and the Trustees. Regulations under the Military Service Act have been made empowering the Minister of Defence to grant financial assistance up to £2 per week to soldiers of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force to enable them to meet their obligations in respect to the following : — (a.) Rent: (b.) Interest and instalments payable in respect of leases and mortgages : (c.) Interest and instalments payable in respect of agreements for the purchase of a dwellinghouse, business premises, furniture, &c. : (d.) Rates and taxes : (c.) Insurance premiums : (g.) Expenses incurred in respect to the management of a business during the period the soldier is on military service. Certain minor amendments to the Regulations for the New Zealand Military Forces, 1913, and the Financial Instructions and Allowance Regulations have been gazetted during the year. Regulations governing the appointment, promotion, and gradation of members of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force, the disposal of officers invalided from that Force, have been made, also regulations for Ordnance services, and for the administration and equipment of camps and barracks. The " Returned Soldiers' Handbook " has been recently revised, and the new issue contains full and complete information as to the conditions under which returning soldiers serve, or are discharged, on their return to New Zealand. It is also designed to serve as a guide to the several Medical and Military Officers, Patriotic Societies, and Returned Soldiers' Association, who have duties to perform in connection with, or who are interested in the welfare of, returned soldiers. Standing Orders amplifying the instructions contained in the " Returned Soldiers' Handbook " have been published in book form for the use and guidance of the Public Health and Defence Departments. The following official publications have also been issued : — Regulations for the New Zealand Medical Services, 1916 : Regulations for the Organization, Training, and Control of an Officers' Training Corps (Medical) : Standing Orders for the New Zealand Medical Corps : Standing Orders for Camps (Expeditionary Force) : Standing Orders for H.M.N.Z. Transports : Provisional Instructions for the Investigation of Charges, Summary Punishments, &c, for the use of Officers of the N.Z. Expeditionary Force Reinforcements. 33. Chaplains. The Chaplains attached to the Forces have performed good and valuable service in connection with Territorial Force and Expeditionary Force camps in New Zealand, and those serving with the New Zealand Expeditionary Forces abroad have worked strenuously in attending to the spiritual and moral welfare of the men. Five New Zealand Chaplains have been awarded decorations by His Majesty the King for distinguished and meritorious service during the war. Thanks to the assistance of the heads of the various Churches, little difficulty is experienced in securing Chaplains for service abroad. 34. New Zealand Dental Corps. The Dental Corps has been greatly strengthened since last report, and has rendered valuable service in providing all necessary treatment required by the soldiers. Dentists throughout the Dominion have loyally assisted, often at great sacrifice to themselves. The dental work in,camps has steadily increased during the year, and has been a great strain upon the staff. They have, however, entered upon their duties with enthusiasm and done their utmost to cope with all difficulties. A Dental Officer and mechanic are attached to the staff of each hospital ship and all transports, so that the requirements of the soldiers in transit may be attended to. This will be a great advantage to soldiers returning to New Zealand. On active service with the Forces are sixteen officers and 109 non-commissioned officers and men. Of these officers, eight are in England, six in France, one in Egypt, and one in Samoa. The Director of Dental Services proceeded to England to co-ordinate the dental service abroad with that in New Zealand. 35. Rase Records. On the 17th June, 1916, the Base Records staff removed from Routh's Buildings to the new office behind the Government Buildings. At the same time the records were removed from Brandon Street. The new building is convenient for the staff, whose efficiency is increased by the increased accommodation provided. The housing of the records in the same building as the staff has proved a great convenience. When the new building was planned the provision made was at that time considered ample. It is now apparent that the Record Office will require periodic extension until the end of the war, as the increase in the number of files and the staff is automatic. The record-room has already been extended into the pensions-room adjoining. This will provide sufficient accommodation for throe months. Tf the war continues longer further extension will become necessary.

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The staff has increased in number during the year from 111 civil and military clerks, of whom 31 were women, to 160, of whom 62 are women. There are now 63 military clerks. No clerks who are eligible for active service are now employed at Base Records. As the result of experience and co-ordination with other Departments, considerable improvements have been effected during the year in the system of record, the object being to ensure accurate information and to make it readily available. The Somme offensive, in which the New-Zealanders took such a prominent part, caused the casualty lists during the months of September, October, and November to be exceptionally heavy. They were, however, dealt with in a very expeditious manner, and all next-of-kin notified by urgent telegrams within a few hours after receipt of cabled lists. During the year a number of complaints were received of the scarcity of hospital and progress reports for soldiers reported wounded during the latter months of 1916. The London authorities were requested to amplify their reports, and as from the 1st November it was arranged for hospital admissions and discharges to be fully reported. The progress of serious cases is also reported once a fortnight. The system is now working in a satisfactory maimer. Owing to Base Records having to cheok the wounded soldiers' messages sent through the New Zealand Inquiry Bureau, it was considered advisable to transfer this work entirely to Base Records. This arrangement took effect as from the 1st March, 1917. The Military Service Act has thrown additional work on Base Records, as the cards of all those drawn in the ballot have to be checked by the Base Records staff to ascertain if by accident or misdescription the names of any men who have left with the Expeditionary Force are included. In the new buildings a large room has been provided for the voluntary staff, to whom the office is greatly indebted for much valuable work performed during the year. 36. Recruiting. On the 25th September, 1916, all matters connected with recruiting for the New Zealand Expeditionary Force were taken over by a directorate created in the Department of the AdjutantGeneral to the Forces. At this time the procedure relating to attestation was varied, recruits being attested on enlistment, instead of in camp, as formerly. The effect of this change is that whereas previously recruits did not become soldiers until they arrived in camp, they are now under military authority from the time they enlist and are attested. Formerly a number of the men who registered failed to parade for the purpose of proceeding to camp, but the new system has gone far to eliminate this wastage. The first ballot under the Military Service Act of 1916 was taken on the 23rd November, 1916. Since that date the compulsory system, which is effected by the Military Service Act, has run concurrently with voluntary recruiting, and ballots are taken at intervals of four weeks. The gross numbers drawn in the ballot have suffered reduction in every case by the striking-off of those men who had previously enlisted and were serving with the Expeditionary Force abroad, or who had attested as volunteers and were awaiting orders to proceed to camp, &c. The Military Service Act affords every man drawn in the ballot a right of appeal. The machinery for dealing with such appeals consisted in the first instance of four Military Service Boards—one in each of the four military districts. Experience, however, proved that this establishment was inadequate, and at the present time nine Military Service Boards are in operation. At the commencement ballot men who appealed were not medically examined until after their appeals had been decided. This system was found to be too slow; and now, with some few exceptions, the medical examination of all men is carried out in rotation and before appeal, arrangements for this being made by Headquarters of the military districts concerned. In the capacity of counsel for the Department a military officer was appointed as Military Representative on each Board, and m every case the result justified the appointment. In providing the machinery for the medical examination of recruits every endeavour has been made to safeguard the interests of the community, and to secure as unbiased and strict a medical examination as possible. Special District Medical Boards were created, members of which were appointed to districts foreign to those m which they had their civil practices. A District Attesting Officer and the necessary staff to cope with the work of attestation is attached to each Medical Board Originally four Medical Boards were appointed—one for each military district— but, as in the case of the Military Service Boards, this was found quite inadequate, and there are now nine of these Boards. A number of men called up in the ballots have failed to present themselves when called upon to attend for medical examination and attestation. The names of such defaulters have been gazetted, and many warrants for arrest have been issued; and, although a considerable number have evaded the efforts of the police to arrest them, there is little doubt that thev will eventually be secured and dealt with. The results of the medical examinations of the men called up prove that up to and including the fourth ballot approximately 47 per cent, were passed as fit for foreign service. Of those classed fit for foreign service a considerable number were appellants whose appeals were either allowed or adjourned As far as the adjourned cases are concerned, the services of these men should be available before the Second Division is called up. It having become necessary to discharge many men from camp after a short period of training, it became obvious that the standard of medical examination was not sufficiently high. A conference of the members of the Medical Boards was held at the end of March, and it was decided to raise the standard of fitness required. lie result was that m he first ballot under the new standard the proportion of men passed as fit tell considerably : of these many were appellants, and this ballot necessarily produced considerably fewer men than any of those preceding it. To meet the situation thus created the sixth ballot was drawn to a proportion of four to one instead of three to one, and the proportion was eventually raised to five to one in the seventh ballot.

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SECTION III.—BRANCH OF THE QUARTERMASTER-GENERAL TO THE FORCES. 37. Drill-halls, Orderly-rooms, Stores, and Offices. In view of a possible reorganization of the Defence Forces training scheme following upon the experience gained during the war, the erection of new buildings in the district commands has not been sanctioned, the only expenditure incurred being that deemed absolutely necessary to maintain the existing buildings in an efficient state of repair and guard them against deterioration. In training centres where the number of Territorials and Cadets would have warranted the favourable consideration of building proposals, private halls and other buildings have been hired for drill purposes during inclement weather, and when indoor instruction was necessary. The organization of groups and areas to meet district requirements under the Military Service Acts —the creation of District Military Service and Medical Boards —largely increased the demand for office accommodation. To meet this need temporary arrangements have had to be made at places where departmental accommodation was not available. 38. Defence Vessels. In Wellington the s.s. " Janie Seddon " has been most usefully employed in the transport of supplies, water, &c, to the Somes Island internment camp and the forts, as well as upon the usual Defence harbour services. Full employment has been found for launches "W" and "A" at Port Chalmers, and " L " at Lyttelton. . At Auckland the s.s. "Lady Roberts" and the gift launch " Iawai " have been doing useful work. The latter, however, has been found to be rather too light for the class of work required, and cannot be taken alongside the wharves in rough weather without risk of hulldamage. The launch will therefore be laid up for the winter months at least, and it is believed that the " Lady Roberts," which is being thoroughly overhauled and repaired, will be able to carry out efficiently all necessary services at Auckland, including the transport of supplies, &c, to the internment camp on Motuihi Island. 39. Railway and Steamer Transport. All ordinary demands in connection with the concentration of reinforcements and the distribution of returning drafts of invalided soldiers have been fully and satisfactorily met. Difficulties were naturally experienced during holiday periods in finding accommodation for troops on final leave prior to embarkation when travelling from and to camp, and during the mobilization of Reinforcement drafts, in addition to the extra demands of the general public. The Railway Department and shipping and transport companies were, however, most successful in handling the abnormally large number of passengers, and the results obtained under very difficult conditions were gratifying. The concessions granted by most of the steamship companies and coach-proprietors throughout the Dominion in connection with the transport of Reinfrocements, and to men on final leave, were continued; consequently the Department was materially assisted in according passages to men visiting their homes. The curtailment of the railway services has resulted in a reduction in the number of trains available to men on limited leave, but special facilities have been granted by the Railway Department which have to some extent minimized the effect of the altered time-table. 40. Rifle Ranges. As in the case of drill-halls, &c, the existing rifle ranges have been maintained and repaired to meet current training and safety requirements, but the construction of new ranges has not been undertaken, consequently the musketry practice of some local units has been carried out at annual training-camps, on adjacent rifle ranges, or on limited local miniature ranges. 41. Small-arms Ammunition. The supply of small-arms ammunition for the Expeditionary and Defence Forces has been well maintained by the Colonial Ammunition Company, and despite the difficulties of obtaining material the quality has been well over the required standard. An ample supply of Mark VII ammunition was received from England for the new-pattern rifles. This will tide over the period which must elapse until the Dominion factory is in a position to supply the special pattern required. 42. Small-arms. During the year supplies of new-pattern rifles, bayonets, and scabbards complete, also sufficient up-to-date machine guns and trench mortars of various patterns, for training Reinforcements for the Expeditionary Force, were received. Although the supply of component parts is still very limited, training requirements have not suffered in consequence. 43. Arttlltirt. There is but little change to report for the past year. Although certain supplies have been difficult to obtain, fair quantities of ordnance stores on order have been received. The artillery materiel generally is in good order and well kept.

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44. Engineer Units, Territorials. The work of replenishing the equipment of the Engineer units has proceeded as rapidly as the prevailing conditions would admit, and fair supplies have been obtained from abroad, as well as through local sources. 45. Field Companies. Since last report six tool-carts and four G.S. wagons have been received from Woolwich and issued to the field companies. Modelling stores ordered from Woolwich are now coming to hand, and will be issued for training purposes. 46. Divisional Signal Companies. These companies have been provided with complete sets of field-telephone equipment, which were manufactured in New Zealand according to the Imperial pattern; also the latest pattern of portable field telephones. Training in field telephony and cable-laying can now be gone on with; but as the replacement of cable-wagons and telegraph equipment withdrawn for the Expeditionary Force has not yet been effected, training in laying field telegraph-cable cannot be carried out at present. 47. Mounted Signal Troops. These troops have been supplied with field-telephone equipment to replace that withdrawn for service abroad. The troops are therefore now able to complete their training in field telephony. 48. Care of Equipment on Issue to Engineer Territorial Units. As a result of investigations by an Ordnance Board in the Wellington and Auckland Districts a number of discrepancies in stores on issue to Engineer and other units was discovered, and it was also found that the stores were not properly cared for. Experience demonstrates that it is impossible for Territorials to keep their technical equipment in proper condition. The appointment of a permanent storeman at each district for the care, custody, and issue of Engineer stores on charge to Engineer Territorial units appears necessary to prevent losses and to keep the stores in a satisfactory condition. 49. Electric Eight and Telephone Stores, R.N.Z.A. The equipment for all authorized Defence lights and for telephone communication at the forts is complete. The electric-light store ledgers of the R.N.Z.A. detachments in the districts are satisfactorily kept by the R.N.Z.A. Sub-Accountants. 50. Equipment. The supply of Mills web equipment remains practically in the same position as last year, and is principally concentrated in Expeditionary Force camps. Bandoliers (leather) for Mounted services, Field Artillery, and A.S.C are being made locally, and the supply is adequate. The supply of Sam Browne belts is also being maintained. 51. Camp Equipment. Many of our tents have been in constant use during the year, and consequently are considerably the worse for wear. Twelve hundred circular tents and fifteen marquees have been received from England. Tents issued in the first instance for Territorial camps are now being returned, and will be used in the four-section camp at Tauherenikau during the winter months. 52. Cookers. Owing to the cost of the repairs constantly necessary in the water-control system, the boiler apparatus has been removed from all cast-iron cookers. Hot water in camp is now provided — (a) In hutment camps—(l) by circulating-boilers heated by small stoves, (2) by cast-iron boilers set in brick; (b) in canvas camps—by 400-gallon tanks set in brick. These methods of providing hot water have proved most economical, and, it is estimated, reduce the cost of maintenance of cookers by at least 50 per cent. 53. Camp-kettles and Washhand-basins. A good stock of each is in hand, and should suffice to meet all requirements. 54. Clothing. The supply of clothing has been well maintained, and in addition to equipping Reinforcements a 20-per-cent. reserve has been built up. Contracts were let for officers' clothing in connection with outfit grant, thus enabling the complete kit to be issued within the allotted sum. The Territorial 1916 postings and the Senior Cadets have been supplied, and sufficient stocks are held to meet this year's demands. Deliveries of clothing for 1916 contracts are nearing completion. During the early stages of the contracts some difficulty was experienced in getting contractors to supply garments up to the required standard, but this has been overcome, and only occasionally are garments returned for alteration. The 1917 contracts for olothing, underclothing, blankets, &c, have been let, the samples supplied by the tenderers are being sealed, and the first requisitions have gone forward.

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It is worthy of note that the quality of the material being supplied for the new contracts is an improvement on that furnished under previous contracts. 55. Hats. Considerable trouble has been experienced in connection with the supply of hats, mainly owing to the variation in quality and difficulty in obtaining material from England. Hoods, however, are now coming forward in sufficient quantities, and are of good quality, but deliveries are slow. 56. Blankets. Under the 1917 contract the blanket called for is of the following dimensions and weight: Width, 64 in.; length, 94 in.; weight, 4 J lb. each blanket. The issue of blankets of such dimensions and weight brings the New Zealand blanket into line with the British Army standard. 57. Sheets, W.P., and Mess-tin Covers. Ample supplies are now available. 58. Boots. Under the 1917 contract several important and necessary changes have been made in connection with military boots. The uppers are now cut from a heavier grade of chrome leather than was used formerly. The puffs, which were often a source of trouble through thus oausing discomfort to the wearer, have been eliminated. The sectional heel-tips, which proved by wear to be altogether too heavy on one portion of the heel, thus causing the wearer to twist and distort the boot, have been abolished : these have been replaced by full heel-tips, which are proving satisfactory. Another weak spot in the 1916-pattern boot was the seam in the baokstrap where it joined the golosh. This seam, known as a " bent seam," gave considerable trouble by breaking away after being submitted to wear. This fault has been remedied by the addition of an outside counter, which does away with the seam and strengthens this portion of the boot. It was also considered advisable to revert to the three-deck sole, and aotual wear proves that the extra substance thus obtained in the fore part of the sole adds considerably to the life of the boot. These changes have resulted in the issue of a much-improved boot. 59. Deck-shoes. The canvas shoes formerly issued have been replaced by a more serviceable article. A fullchrome all-leather Derby shoe, solidly standard-screwed, is now supplied. These shoes will resist a certain amount of wet, and are capable of repair when the soles are worn, thus proving more economical than the cheaper article. 60. Waterproofing Boots. A system of waterproofing was introduced in August, 1916, and every boot issued since that date has been subjected to this process. From reports received this system is proving most satisfactory, and has increased the durability of the boot. 61. Repair Boot-shop. A boot-repair shop was started in January last, and a staff of nine men employed, who repair an average of four hundred pairs weekly. The result has proved most satisfactory both financially and as regards the quality of work. Since starting this shop the price of all materials has considerably increased, the price of leather alone having advanced by 6d. per pound, while the cost of other articles has increased proportionately. Nevertheless first-class materials only have been used for repairs, and the cost of half-soling and heeling boots —after allowing for wages, maintenance, depreciation of material and machinery—has been reduced by lOd. per pair as compared with the lowest quotation submitted in December, 1916. In addition the Department has the satisfactory knowledge that all materials used are of the best quality, and that the boots are thoroughly repaired by expert tradesmen. The total number of boots repaired to 30th April was four thousand pairs, thus effecting a saving of £166 13s. 4d. ( equal to an annual economy of £500. 62. Veterinary Stores. During the year arrangements were made whereby the Veterinary Department controlled the issues of drugs for veterinary chests, by which means a considerable saving has been effected. 63. Veterinary Surgical Instruments. These are housed in the Wallaceville haboratory, thus ensuring that every care and attention is taken of them throughout the year. 64. Miscellaneous Stores. Annual contracts have been made for the supply of miscellaneous stores, such as hardware, cleaning-materials, cooking-utensils, stable gear, picks and shovels, messing-utensils, &c, thus substituting a system of annual demands for piecemeal orders. This has enabled the Department to purchase to much better advantage. There are still some minor lines for which annual oontracts have yet to be arranged, but it is hoped before long to have all supplies provided for by annual contracts in conjunction with annual demands.

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65. Equipment of Hospitals. In addition to equipping hospitals in camps, equipment has also been supplied to the following hospitals and convalescent homes: Queen Mary Hospital, Hanmer; King George V Hospital, Rotorua; To Wa.ikato Sanatorium; Infectious Hospital, Port Chalmers; bowry Bay Convalescent Home. A new pattern bed-cot with six legs has been introduced, which is found to bo more stable and durable than the previous issue. 66. Ordnance Workshops. An ordnance workshop has been established at Trentham Camp, where the whole of the musketry equipment for the Dominion is standardized, thus reducing the cost of production. This workshop will shortly be able to manufacture the whole of our wood requirements for the Dominion. The armament workshop at Mount Cook Barracks is also utilized as an ordnance workshop. 67. Transport. As the system of cartage by private contract was not altogether satisfactory, it was decided to provide Defence transport. This new arrangement, which was commenced in September, 1916, has proved most successful, and after providing for wages, maintenance, and depreciation a large saving has been effected. 68. Rut inning. During a recent visit to Auckland the Director of Equipment and Ordnance Stores discussed with Professor Worlev the question of retinning, and explained a method of returning utensils adopted by the Natives of India. Professor Worley entered heartily into the proposition, and has completed his first experiments, the result of which has exceeded all expectations. Endeavours arc now being made to procure a sufficient supply -of the necessary ingredients to enable a method of retinning, based on these experiments, to be adopted. 69. Washino and Laundry-work in connection with Camps and Hospitals. Fresh contracts were let for the laundry-work in connection with the camps and hospitals, with the result that a, saving of £614 is shown as compared with the rates previously paid. 70. Rennovation and Sterilization of Part-worn Garments. During the year a large number of part-worn garments of all descriptions, received from camps, have been sorted out, and those considered fat for repair placed aside. A contract was arranged for the sterilization and renovation of this clothing. The following table shows— (a) Articles of clothing included in contract; (b) contract prices for sterilization and renovation; (c) issue prices when new. v ' s. d. £ s. d. Greatcoats ... ... ... ... ... 7 0 2 5 0 "... 7 0 2 2 6 Jackets ... ... ... ... ... ... 6 2 16 0 Trousers ... ... ... ... ... 4 8 0 15 0 Towels ... ... ... ... ... ... 0 1 0 1 0 Puggarees ... ... ... ... ... 0 H 0 10 Puttees (pair) ... ... ... ... ... 0 3" 0 6 0 Blankets (each) ... ... ... ... ... 0 6 0 11 0 .Kit-bags ... ... ... ... ... 0 3 0 4 0 This clothing when received from the contractor after sterilization, washing, and renovation is almost as good as new, and is issued to home-service soldiers and Territorials, thus materially reducing the cost of equipping. 71. Waste Products. In October, 1916, regulations were introduced controlling the return of all empty fired brass cartridge-cases, and during a period of six months the amount realized under the contract for the sale of these cartridge-cases was £1,671 18s. lid., which sum has been paid into the Public Account. This amount is in respect of cartridge-oases received from Expeditionary Force camps only. When the whole of the fired cartridge-cases have been collected and sold it is estimated that approximately £5,000 will be realized during the twelve months. Instructions have been issued and brought into operation relative to the return of worn-out garments, cordage, canvas, scrim, shakings, &c, no matter how valueless they appeared. These have realized no less a sum than £805 10s. 9d. This, added to £1,671 18s. lid., realized for fired cartridge-oases, gives a total sum realized and paid into the Public Account of £2,477 9s. Bd. 72. Store Buildings. The erection of the new store was completed in August, 1916, one-half of the ground floor being allotted to medical stores and the other portion for boots, the remaining floors for uniform clothing. This building met our requirements for a few weeks, but the completion of the 1916 contracts again congested the stores to such an extent that accommodation for between eight hundred and nine hundred cases and bales had to be obtained in " X " shed of the Harbour Board. With the deliveries in connection with the 1917 contracts further storage accommodation is necessary. During the year the whole of the buildings have been fitted with automatic firedetectors, new hydrants erected, and direct communication with fire-brigade station established.

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73. Regulations. During the year the following regulations and instructions have been issued :— (I.) Scale of depreciation of clothing and the establishment of a scale of " life.' (2.) Vocabulary of stores. (3.) Regulations governing the issue of clothing to home-service soldiers. (4.) Regulations relating to accounting for linen, bedding, and stores on transports. (5.) Instructions regarding standardization of card-cabinets throughout the Dominion. (6.) Instructions for the care and preservation of harness and saddlery. (7.) Regulations for camp and barrack services, including schedules of furniture and fitments in camps, drill-halls, offices, and hospitals throughout the Dominion, thus ensuring proper accounting for and supervision of stores, equipment, &c, repairing of furniture, and detailed duties in connection with the above. (8.) Schedules of cleaning-materials. (9.) Regulations in connection with the organization and formation of Ordnance Department and Ordnance Corps. (10.) Ordnance Regulations bringing the Ordnance Department into line with the British Army — i.e., remodelling stores on Ordnance lines, including departmental ledgers and accounting for, &c. 74. War Accounts. The work of this Department has grown to such an extent that it was found absolutely necessary during the year to provide additional office accommodation for the staff. Allotments. —The allotment warrants sent out in March totalled 53,01.3, or an increase of 22,107, during the year. Expenditure.— The total expenditure to the 31st March, 1917, was £22,226,428 12s. 2d., including pay of troops, cost of transport, supplies, equipment, and other charges in connection with the war, as well as the amount paid from War Expenses Account for relief purposes in Belgium and New Zealand. Soldiers' Accounts. —Every effort is made to facilitate the final settlement of soldiers' accounts, but sonic delay in doing so is unavoidable. This is entirely due to the long distance from the overseas base, and the consequent late arrival of acquittance rolls from the front. By the time these are collected and passed for entry in hondon a period of six months will sometimes elapse before they are received in New Zealand. Soldiers' Remittances. —Facilities have been afforded for the remittance of money to and from soldiers through the Staff Paymaster in hondon and the Base Cashier, Cairo. Remittances not exceeding £10 are sent free of exchange, the cost of the cablegram only being charged for, the average charge for each remittance working out at 10s. The total amount remitted under this heading to the 31st March, 1917, was £100,461, and the number of remittances on some occasions has reached between sixty and a hundred per day. A large number of remittances sent through other sources — i.e., banks, mercantile firms, &c.—are handed over by their hondon branches to the N.Z.E.F. Staff Paymaster in hondon for credit of and payment to soldiers. Hospitals and Hostels. —The expenditure for hospital maintenance has largely increased consequent upon the return of invalided soldiers and provision of accommodation therefor. The total payments for hospital accommodation (new buildings, &c.) to the 31st March, 1917, amounted to £87,126. The payments to public hospitals for maintenance of soldiers in these institutions have also largely increased. A sum of £3,500 has been provided by the Government towards the cost of building hostels for soldiers in New Zealand and abroad. Deceased Soldiers' Estates. —Arrangements have been made with the Public Trustee to make inquiries on behalf of the Defence Department for the purpose of obtaining information regarding legal next-of-kin, &c, to facilitate settlement of balances of military pay owing to deceased soldiers' estates, and the expert assistance rendered by the Public Trust Office is of great value. Every effort is made to obtain as soon as possible the pay-books of deceased soldiers, which contain provision for a will, the importance of which can be realized when the estate is a valuable one. Owing to the conditions which obtain at the front many pay-books are never recovered, but it will be understood that the Department is unable to assume that a pay-book will not come to hand until after a reasonable period has elapsed. Pre-audit Claims. —The arrangement whereby a section of the Controller and AuditorGeneral's staff is located in the same building as the War Accounts staff is proving very successful. By this arrangement the audit of war accounts proceeds concurrently with the payment of claims, thus preventing an accumulation of war accounts, and ensuring that the requirements of law are fully met as the work of accounting proceeds and before any payment is actually made. 75. Army Service Corps. The Army Service Corps companies are now fully equipped with clothing, and went into annual camps by detachments, where they carried out the supply and transport duties of the various regimental camps very satisfactorily. The Army Service Corps is at present about 40 per cent, under establishment, mainly due to so many men enlisting in the Expeditionary Force. Every effort will be made to complete establishment at the next posting. Owing to the war the difficulty in filling the artificer ranks, also the officers' and noncommissioned officers' positions, is becoming more pronounced.

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76. Supplies at Training-camps. The supplies for practically all training-camps throughout the Dominion were obtained by contract by either the Munitions and Supplies Department, the Director of Supplies and Transport, or the Assistant Directors of Supplies and Transport in the various districts. All issuing and accounting was done by the Army Service Corps. The number of tenders received was up to the average, the contracts were well carried out, and the quality of the supplies was good. 77. Canteens. The dry canteens in the annual Territorial camps were arranged regimcntally. No complaints were received. The canteens in the training-camps at Featherston and Trentham are let by contract for a period of six months. The prices are the same for both camps, and are laid down by the Department. The system of letting by contract is satisfactory. 78. Rations and Forage. The soale of rations for the Expeditionary Force and annual Territorial training-camps is as follows :— Expeditionary Force Training-camps: Bread, I|lb. ; fresh meat, ljlb., or preserved meat, lib.; cheese, 20z,; coffee, £ oz.; jam, 4oz. (includes 1 oz. treacle per man per week); fresh milk, J- pint, or condensed milk, £ tin; flour, 1| oz.; baking-powder, 31b. for every 1001b. flour issued; oatmeal, 1 oz.; onions 4 oz. ; fresh vegetables, 8 oz. (when available); potatoes (old), lib., or new, fib.; salt, \ oz.; sugar, 4 oz. ; tea, £ oz.; butter, 4 oz. ; candles, 3 \lb.; dried fruit, 4 oz. per man per week; pepper, fa oz.; rice, 2 oz. per man twice weekly; currants, 1 oz. per man twice weekly; tapioca, 1 oz. per man per week; sago, 1 oz. per man per week; curry-powder, g oz. per man thrice weekly. Annual Territorial Training-camps: Bread, ljlb., or biscuits, lib.; fresh meat, IJlb., or preserved meat, lib.; butter, 4 oz.; cheese, 2 oz. ; coffee, \ oz.; flour, 1 oz.; jam, 4 oz.; fresh milk, \ pint, or condensed milk, \ tin; oatmeal, 2 oz. ; potatoes, lib.; onions, 2 oz.; pepper, fa oz.; salt, J oz.; sugar, 4 oz.; tea, f oz.; baking-powder, 31b. to 1001b. flour issued. In each instance the items are a daily issue, except where otherwise stated. So far as concerns the annual Territorial training-camps, an allowance of 2d. per man per diem was granted in addition to ration, and is much appreciated, as it enables officers commanding units to purchase any extras they consider necessary for their men. No complaints regarding the quality or quantity of the rations were received. The scale of forage rations for the Expeditionary Force and annual Territorial trainingcamps is as follows : Expeditionary Force Training-camps : Chaff, 12 Ib.; hay, 61b.; oats, 61b.; bran, l|lb. Annual Territorial Training-camps : Three scales were set down, and it was left to the officers commanding units to use whichever they thought most fitting: (a.) Chaff, 121b.; hay, 6 Ib. ; oats, 61b. (b.) Chaff, 181b. ; oats, 6 Ib. (>.) Chaff, 18 Ib.; hay, 61b. An additional 21b. oats was allowed for draught horses. The following gives the average cost of rations and forage per head per diem, and in the case of the Territorial camps includes the allowance of 2d. per diem : —■

79. Field Transport. Each district has now on charge wagons and harness, and during this year's Territorial camps the Remount Department purchased draught horses where necessary, and the Army Service Corps wore thus enabled to carry out the transport work in connection with the removal of baggage, supplies, stores, &o. At Auckland, Wellington, Palmerston North, and Trentham and Featherston Camps the Army Service Corps are well established with wagons, horses, &c, and the hiring of transport at these places is now a thing of the past, whilst the Department has an efficient transport service which is at all times available for use. Army Service Corps transport will shortly be installed at Dunedin and Christchurch. A very important point is that the A.S.C. wagons, horses, &0., are available for the instruction of the A.S.C. Territorials, and thus the cost for this service is cut down,

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Camp or District. Average Co=t of Rations, Fuel, Light, and Straw per Man per Diem. Average Cost of Forage per Iforse per Diem. Territorial Camps— Auckland District Wellington District Canterbury District. . Otago District s. d. 1 11-40 1 11-50 I 9-50 I 11-48 s. 1 1 0 1 d. 4-50 5-43 9-03 3-26 Expeditionary Force Training-camps— Trentham Featherston 1 5-531 I 6-514 1 1 5-632 5-632

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80. Field Cooking. The cooking in camps was carried out as last year, partially by civilian cooks and partially by Territorial cooks. Roberts field cookers were used, also several cookers manufactured by Scott Bros., in the Canterbury District, which were supplemented by trench cooking when necessary. 81. Field Bakeries. Army Service Corps bakeries have been established at Trentham and Featherston Camps, and for the past twelve months the whole of the bread requirements for these two camps, averaging 6,000 lb. and 7,00011). respectively daily, has been turned out at an average cost of 6'osd. per I lb. A more up-to-date bakery is in course of erection at Trentham Camp, and when complete will further decrease tin 1 cost of bread-production by approximately £1,400 per annum. 82. Supplies for New Zealand Expeditionary Force, United Kingdom. Large quantities of condensed milk, bacon, preserved meat, jam, peas, beans, cheese, flour, sugar, and butter for the use of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force in the United Kingdom are sent monthly or as transports are available, and as these supplies can be landed ex transports at a much less cost than by purchase in England, it thus materially decreases the cost of maintenance of the New Zealand Expeditionary Forces in England. 83. Veterinary Corps. The veterinary services have been successfully carried out during the year. In view of the reduced number of Reinforcements required, a longer period of training has been possible, with the result that a marked increase in efficiency has been attained. 84. Extra Horses for Territorial Camps. The practice of hiring horses for use in the Territorial camps has not proved efficient,or economical. It is found more advantageous to purchase outright all horses required at the beginning of the camp season, and, if possible, to arrange the camps in each military district so that the horses can be transferred from one camp to another. This method was tried in Otago during the year, with the following result : Fourteen transport horses were purchased at a cost of £395 and used in different camps. The cost of hiring a similar number of horses would have been £311. At the conclusion of the year the horses were worth quite as much as when purchased, and as this class of horse, as well as the artillery type, is always in demand and readily sold, the economy effected is apparent. It will probably be found practicable to extend this scheme to riding-horses also with economical results, as these horses could be utilized as required to replace cast horses of the Permanent establishment, for which purpose their camp training would render them most valuable. 85. Remount Depot. The Remount Depot at Upper Hutt has been retained as a receiving and distributing centre for the Expeditionary Force training-camps and the Permanent establishment. The horses shipped as remounts for the New Zealand Expeditionary Force were of an excellent type, and should uphold the high reputation already established overseas by New Zealand remounts. A loss of only I per cent, occurred during sea voyages. A small number of remounts was despatched to Samoa, where they arrived safely and gave satisfaction. An officer of the N.Z.V.C. who accompanied the horses inspected and reported favourably on the whole Samoan horse establishment. 86. Pig-parm. A pig-farm has been established in conjunction with the Remount Depot, and is managed by the Remount officer. This farm was instituted as a means of profitably utilizing the waste products of the camp, and to ensure better sanitary conditions. There is every indication that the venture will prove profitable, and also improve the health of men in the camp.

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APPENDIX A. APPOINTMENTS, PROMOTIONS, ETC. 1, Principal Appointments made during the Year. (a.) Field-Marsha] His Royal Highness Arthur William Patrick Albert, Duke of Connaught and Strathearn, E.G., K.T., X.P.. G. 0.8., G.C.5.1., C.C.M.G., G.C./.E., G.C.V.0., to be Colonel-in-Chief of the New Zealand Rifle Brigade (The Earl of Liverpool's Own). New Zealand Staff Corps — Brigadier-General Sir Alfred William Robin, K.C.M.G., C.H., t.d., to be Major-General. Neii) Zealand Expeditionary Force — Colonel (temp. Major-General) Sir Andrew Hamilton Russell, K.C.M.G-, A.D.C., to be MajorGeneral. Colonel Edward Walter Chaytor, G. 8., C.M.G., t.d., to be temporary Brigadier-General. Lieut.-Colonel (temp. Colonel) Charles Henry Jeffries Brown, D.5.0., to be temporary Brigadier-General. Lieut .-Colonel Herbert Hart, D.5.0., to be temporary Brigadier-General. (/>.) Staff at Headquarters. Deputy Officer in Charge of Administration. —Colonel James Jacob Esson, G.M.G., New Zealand Expeditionary Force, returned from active service for home duties, to be Deputy Officer in Charge of Administration, attached to Headquarters Staff, and graded as Deputy Quarter-master-General while so employed. Director of Organization. —Captain (temp. Major) Charles Eric Andrews, New Zealand Staff Corps, returned from active service for home duties, to be Director of Organization. Director of Personal Services. —Major James Osburne-hilly, 17th (Ruahine) Regiment, to be Director of Personal Services. Director of Recruiting. —Captain (temp.) David Cecil Wallace Cossgrove, New Zealand Permanent Staff, to be Director of Recruiting. Director of Movements and Quartering. —Captain (temp. Major) Henry Charles Nutsford, New Zealand Staff Corps, returned from active service for home duties, to be Director of Movements and Quartering, vice Major W. L. Robinson, N.Z.S.C, proceeding on active service. Director of Supplies and Transport. —Captain (temp. Major) Francis Edward Ostler, Army Service Corps, to be Director of Supplies and Transport, vice Captain (temp. Major) H. H. Wright, A.S.C, proceeding on active service. Director of Dented Services. —Major (temp. Lieut.-Colonel) John Norman Rishworth to be Director of Dental Services (temp.). (''•) Officers of the Imperial Forces, New Zealand Staff Corps, and Royal New Zealand Artillery who have proceeded on Active Service since Last Report. Lieut.-Colonel H. E. Pilkington, Major W. L, Robinson, Major J. E. Barton, Major W. H. Meddings, Major W. C. Finnis, Captain E. C. Dovey, Captain (temp. Major) H. H. Wright, ■Captain C, W. Braddell, Captain S. C. P. Nicholls, Captain P. W. Skelley, Captain It. N. .1 Eraser, Lieutenant L. Potter, Lieutenant F. V. Brown, R.N.Z.A. General Staff Officer (Canterbury) Captain (temp. Major) W. C. Morrison, N.Z. Staff Corps, returned from active service for home duties, to be General Staff Officer, Canterbury Military District, vice Captain (temp. Major) W. C. Finnis, N.Z. Staff Corps, proceeding on active service. (d.) New Appointments. The operation of the Military Service Act has necessitated the undermentioned appointments, which are unique in the history of the New Zealand Military Forces : — (a.) Military Representatives to Military Service Boards. (b.) Attesting Officers to District Medical Boards. (c.) Medical Officers as members of Special District Medical Boards. (d.) Dental Officers attached to Special District Medical Boards. (''.) Officers attached to the Staff of the Director of Recruiting at Headquarters. 2. Appointments, Promotions, etc., of Territorial Officers. The following table gives a summary of all appointments, &c, in the New Zealand Territorial Forces from the Ist May, 1916, to the 2nd April, 1917 :— First appointments ... ... ... ... ... ... 374 Temporary appointments ... ... ... ... ... ... 153 Appointments confirmed ... ... ... ... ... ... 135 Promotions ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 399 Resignations ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 37 To Reserve of Officers ... ... ... ... ... ... 33 •To Retired List ... ... ... ... ... ... ... 48 To Unattached List (a) ... ... ... ... ... ... 18 To Unattached list (b) ... ... ... ... ... ... 553 With Expeditionary Force ... ... ... ... ... ... 352 Commissions cancelled ... ... ... ... ... ... 8 Deaths on home service ... ... ... ... ... ... 9 Deaths on active service ... ... ... ... ... ... 42 Struck off strength of the New Zealand Expeditionary Force ... ... 11l

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APPENDIX B.

RETURN OF PROSECUTIONS From the 1st May, 1916, to the 30th April, 1917.

Approximate Cost of Paper. —Preparation, not given ; printing (1,00(1 copies), £22 10r.

By Authority : Maecus F. Marks, Government Printer, Wellington. —1917.

Price 9d.)

22

Military District. 3 o u C5 a u < o d N on -registration. Refusal Oa Senior Cadets. to take ith. Territorials. Absence Obstruc Para from or jtion of ides. Convictions. Senior TerriCadots. torials. Senior Cadets. Territorials. Senior TerriCadets. torials. Auckland 1 2 3 4 17 29 29 17 21 I 42 26 3 82 25 4 1 71 111 43 41 5 1 District totals 46 51 71 112 117 158 Wellington 5 6 7 8 4 1 2 2 37 24 49 32 50 11 12 27 59 62 64 145 36 29 48 28 r,r, 12 12 26 58 61 61 146 District totals 18 19 20 16 1 3 23 22 21 215 380 220 374 Canterbury 9 l() 11 12 21 21 1 253 98 5 35 6 74 133 39 46 84 163 3426 31 6 70 70 48 34 53 9 I 1 District totals 22 II 397 376 260 275 Otago 13 14 15 10 2 3 3 7 5 7 1 2 37 59 5 6 84 60 23 26 35 (il 5 6 85 55 28 32 District totals 5 22 107 1.93 107 200 Dominion totals 94 90 3 790 1,061 704 1,007 Percentage ( )f convi ctions or prosecuti ons: Sen ior Cadets ,79-37; 'erritorials, 87'33.