H.—l7

1916. NEW ZEALAND.

NATIONAL PROVIDENT FUND. FIFTH ANNUAL REPORT OF THE BOARD FOR THE YEAR ENDED 31st DECEMBER, 1915.

Prepared in Term* of Section 23 of the National Provident Fund Act, 1910.

There were 8,101 contributors to the Fund at the 31st December, 1915, the increase in membership during the year amounting to 1.243. The annual contribution rate at the above date was £31,874 14s. The total funds amounted to £83,000 9s. 5d., compared with £53,717 14s. lid. at the close of 1914. Maternity benefits paid amounted to £2,806 75., claimed by 472 contributors. It is satisfactory to report a reduction in the proportion of outstanding and overdue contributions as compared with the previous year. Since the war broke out 1,500 contributors have left with (he Expeditionary Force on active service, and thus became entitled lo the Government concession to pay half contributions during their service. The sum due lo the Fund at the 31st December, 1915, on this account amounted to £1,705 2s. sd. The management expenses were 22 per cent, of contribution income. Arthur M. Myers, Chairman of the Board. 11. E. Hayes, Wellington, 21st July, 19 Id. Superintendent of the Fund.