POLICE.
418
Repairs of Launches and Boats. Last year the Department chartered launches and was not responsible for major repairs on them. It has now its own launches for patrolling the waters of the New Territory; hence the increase in the vote.
New Police Launch. On the 22nd July, 1901, Messrs. Crake and Carmichael examined internally and externally the hull of No.3 Police Launch and reported: "After careful examination we have come to the following conclusion: that this launch is fit for 2 years more duty in the harbour, but it is not in our opinion strong enough to encounter heavy weather her timbers and frames being far from strong. As she is now 14 years old and has had a good deal of rough work we think it would be advisable to relegate her to harbour work only".
No other launch is available for the Mirs Bay work and therefore on the recommendation of the Captain Superintendent of Police this item of $15,000 has been inserted for a new launch.
Provisions for Prisoners. The increased daily average of prisoners is largely due to the greatly increased number of prisoners with sentences of 2 years and upwards convicted since the taking over of the New Territory.
Blankets for Prisoners. This item is inserted to provide for the purchase of 300 blankets which are much needed to replace blankets worn out.