H.—ll.

There were 609 visits of inspection made to the different factories, to inquire into the working of the Act, and, where necessary, occupiers were instructed to make alterations ; these were carried out in a satisfactory manner without delay. When erecting new premises for factories, if intending occupiers would submit plans of the structure to the Inspector before commencing to build, a considerable amount of the alterations such as have been ordered in the past would be unnecessary, which would, of course, be an advantage to the factory-owners themselves. The general working of the provisions of this Act have been of a satisfactory nature. The factories and workrooms in this district, generally speaking, are clean and well ventilated ; attention is also paid to the sanitary arrangements, showing that employers are recognising that the success of their business considerably depends upon the comfort of their employees. Certificates of fitness to work in factories have been issued to 4 males and 6 females under the age of sixteen years, as compared with 10 males and 5 females last year. Warrants to work overtime were issued to 14 employers, with 64 women and boys, who worked 1,488 hours overtime ; while 61 adults worked 4,014 hours overtime. Nine accidents —fortunately none of a very serious nature —were reported during the year. One employer was prosecuted for failing to report an accident which occurred in his factory, and a small fine was imposed by the Stipendiary Magistrate. Shops and Offices Act. This Act has worked more smoothly than during the last year, as the different sections and provisions are more universally accepted without any undue friction. During the year 139 shopkeepers furnished returns, showing that 193 males and 81 females were employed, making a total of 274. Twenty employers applied for permits allowing 65 males and 25 females to work 1,600 hours for which overtime rates were paid. There were 2 prosecutions under this Act, and a fine and costs were imposed in each case. The shops throughout are clean, well kept, and comfortable. Industrial Conciliation and Arbitration Act. The work of administering this Act has again proved heavy. Applications for enforcement have been made in 26 cases, and 18 employers and 5 employees were fined and convictions recorded. Two cases were withdrawn, and in the case of another employee the application was dismissed. The various trades affected were builders, bakers, butchers, carpenters, printers, tailors, and tailoresses. Several visits have been made to all parts of the district —viz., Carterton, Greytown, Featherston, Martinborough, Eketahuna, and Pahiatua —for the purpose of inquiring into award cases and general matters. Servants' Kegistry Offices Act. There are 4 offices doing business in Masterton, the same number as for last year. On several occasions the books have been inspected, and were always found satisfactory. The old complaint still exists—" notices " are kept in the newspapers for persons " wanted " after the positions are filled ; registry-office keepers should see that this is remedied without further delay, as it is misleading to workers at a distance, who may consider positions plentiful owing to the continued advertisement. Shearers' Accommodation Act. The accommodation for shearers throughout this district, with but few exceptions, is of a satisfactory nature ; necessary alterations and improvements are now being attended to, so that everything may be in readiness for next season ; in some instances plans of accommodation have been submitted to this office for suggestions and approval. Labour. During the greater part of the year, owing to the general slackness, the number of applicants for employment of any description has greatly exceeded the local demand ; of the number, 64 men have been placed in Government and private employment by this branch of the Department. Conclusion. In conclusion, I wish to express my sincere appreciation of the courtesy and consideration shown to me by employers and employees alike when making inquiries of an official nature, and when administering the various laws and regulations under the control of the Department, in this district. I have, &c, J. Georgeson, The Chief Inspector of Factories, Wellington. Inspector of Factories.

NELSON. Sir, — Department of Labour, Nelson, sth April, 1909. I have the honour to submit, for your information, my annual report on the work of the Department in the Nelson district for the year ending 31st March, 1909. General. The period under review has been, on the whole, very satisfactory to employers and employees alike ; although from* time to time/trade fluctuated somewhat, yet reports obtained from business people go to show that, generally speaking, good trade has been done throughout the year.

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