H.—l4.

Conclusion. It has been stressed in earlier reports that the expanding cost of Government has been due to the extension of duties that have devolved upon the Service through the necessities of the times. Every fresh piece of legislation involves certain fresh administrative responsibilities, the extent of which is frequently not realized by those who cavil at the cost of the Public Service. The intricate ramifications of the State and the intertwining of its activities throughout the whole social structure make it both difficult and dangerous to effect a sudden cessation of certain services. In many cases loss from a social standpoint would considerably outweigh the immediate pecuniary gain. It is gradually being recognized by all who face the existing facts fairly and squarely in respect of finance and industry that our economic mechanism has lost much of its selfadjusting quality, and that some form of rationalization, regulative control, or planned economy is essential to recovery. In such event this means that, instead of fewer burdens being thrown on Government, the tendency probably will be for its functions to increase unless we are to revert to the suicidal policy of laissez faire. It is again desired to place on record appreciation of the generous measure of support and co-operation accorded by Permanent Heads, and of the loyal manner in which officers throughout the Service have risen to the demands of the abnormal conditions that have been experienced during the year. This maintenance of the best traditions is all the more praiseworthy when it is borne in mind that there is probably no calling the conditions of service of which are so exposed, particularly in times of financial stringency, to unthinking public criticism as the Public Service. To the staff of this office special thanks are due for their unfailing zeal and loyalty. All of which is respectfully submitted for Your Excellency's gracious consideration. P. Verschaffelt, Commissioner. B. L. Dallard, Assistant Commissioner. Office of the Public Service Commissioner, Wellington, 28th February, 1933.

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