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decrease in the prison population since the end of the year
under review the continued overcrowding emphasizes the necessity
for the proposed new convict prison. The beginning of this
building has been delayed by the abandonment to the War De-
partment of the proposed site on Stonecutters' Island. The
question of a fresh site has for some time past been under
consideration. I wish, if possible, to locate it on the main-
land.
M
6.
The accounts for prison industries are
presented in a somewhat different and clearer form in this
than in previous reports. I am not entirely satisfied that
the greatest possible return is obtained from the available
labour but this question always presents difficulties as the
pecuniary returns from the labour of prisoners has of course
to be entirely subordinated to their proper punishment and to
the maintenance of good discipline among them. The Printing
and Bookbinding Department which turns out a very large mount
of work with very small plant and the Laundry which does all
the washing for the Government Civil Hospital save the Govern-
ment considerable sums every year.
7.
I inspected Victoria Gaol on the 20th.
September last and was satisfied with the state of the build-
ings and the arrangements for maintaining cleanliness, good
order and discipline.
I have the honour to be,
Sir,
Your most obedient
Humble servant,
M. wathan
Governor, &c..
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