H—ls

It is to be expected that the new Anglo-American standard thread will in the course of years gain general adoption in all countries, including New Zealand, where the inch system of linear measurement is in vogue. The ultimate economic savings in the metal industries of countries which adopt the new standard thread forms is expected to be immense. STAFF The Department has experienced staff-shortage difficulties common to almost every Government Department at the present time. These difficulties have been enhanced in our case by our willing release of several trained officers to other Departments, part relief being obtained by appointment of cadets or of clerical assistants with no prior Public Service training. The Organization and Management Committee set up under direction of the Public Service Commission has been responsible for effecting several changes in office routine which, while not reducing efficiency or accuracy, have resulted in labour-saving. Due to improved conditions of employment and a higher standard of remuneration, the Department now has a waiting-list of suitable persons for appointment to the Lighthouse Service. This is a pleasing factor after so many years of catch-as-catch-can necessity. During the year, nautical Superintendents of Mercantile Marine at Dunedin and Lyttelton were replaced by clerical officers, and the change-over has worked smoothly in the best interests of the Department and of the shipping industry. FISHERIES An abridged report of the working of the Fisheries Branch of the Department follows hereon, together with a report on the operations of the Marine Biological Station at Portobello. I have, &c., W. C. Smith, Secretary for Marine.

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