H—37

hitherto no compensation was made for the manifest disadvantages of having to work rosters at week-ends. This condition offered a sever deterrent to prospective applicants for positions, and the new system should enable us to compete for staff on a more equitable basis. Early in March this year advertisements were inserted in a number of newspapers throughout New Zealand calling for applications for positions of meteorological observers under the new conditions, in which penal rates apply. The response was particularly gratifying, and it is hoped that a sufficient number of suitable men will be recruited to enable the observer establishment to be brought up to full strength. By contrast with the observer staff, the position regarding professional officers still remains very serious. Although the payment of penal rates applies also to professional staff, the supply of graduates is strictly limited and the competition very keen. One graduate only joined the staff during the year. Arrangements were made through the High Commissioner in London to advertise for professional officers in England. Although a number of applications was received, the chances of being able to attract suitable men with previous meteorological experience appear small. The shortage of staff, particularly in the case of forecasters, has placed a very heavy burden on the remaining members of the Service, and their cordial and loyal co-operation is again acknowledged with pleasure. I have, &c, M. A. F. Barnett, Director of Meteorological Services.

Approximate Cost of Paper.—Preparation, not given; printing (733 copies), £95.

E. V, Paul, Government Printer, Wellington,

Price Is.]

41