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(11) Building for other Departments. —During the year the Division's organization has been utilized to a still greater extent for the erection of dwellings and other building projects. Expenditure under this heading amounted to £524,909 for the year, bringing the accumulated total up to £1,203,509. The number of houses totalled 115 for the year and an accumulated total of 418. (12) Proposals for Ensuing Year. —The hope expressed in last year's report that materials would become increasingly available has not been realized; in fact, the position has steadily worsened. Nevertheless, by use of substitutes and an assiduous combing of all possible sources of materials it is anticipated that it will be possible to continue with the acceleration of the housing programme. Provision for a total expenditure of £7,832,871 has been made in the current year's estimates, and the envisaged programme provides for the completion of 4,000 house units. The State Advances Corporation continues to offer building loans to those desiring to erect houses for themselves, and during the year ended 31st March, 1946, granted 2,175 of these loans to a total of £2,716,662, exclusive of loans granted to local authorities under Part 111 of the Housing Act, 1919, which latter amounted to £290,100. (13) Staff Accommodation.—This continues to cause the Division considerable concern. In Wellington particularly the District Office is housed in four separate buildings, with consequent loss of co-ordinating efficiency. (14) Administration. —Decentralization of the Division's activities is progressing as rapidly as staffing and accommodation will permit and is practically complete in some districts. The staffing position is still very difficult, especially in the professional and technical ranks. The total staff of the Division at 31st March, 1946, was 562, of whom 25 were absent with the Armed Forces and 24 were on indefinite leave of absence. In conclusion, it gives me pleasure to record once again that the staff of the Division has loyally supported me in the execution of the housing policy and that relations with the building industry and the general public continue to be excellent. I have, &c., G. W. Albertson, A.M.1.C.E., Director of Housing Construction.

Approximate Cost of Paper. —Preparation, not given ; printing (711 copies), £97 10s.

By Authority: E. V. Paul, Government Printer, Wellington.—l 946. Price Is. 3d.] [720/6/46—5856

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