12. 13,069,606 forms were printed and issued to various Government Departments and 74,497 books bound or repaired, as compared with 11,673,172 forms and 69,543 books in 1924. During the year 2 additional printing machines were obtained. The output for the year was increased by approximately 1,400,000 forms and much of the work hitherto done by the Government printers, Messrs. Noronha & Co. is now undertaken by this Department.
13. In October a type casting machine was installed and type casting added to the list of prison industries.
14. 3 new halls were opened at Lai Chi Kok for the accommodation of male adult prisoners. There are now 7 halls at Lai Chi Kok including one for Juveniles but as all the prisoners are in association and there are no workshops the establishment cannot be regarded as a satisfactory penitentiary. In Victoria Gaol the need for better quarters, offices, hospital, stores and workshops becomes more pressing every year. Unfortunately there is no room within the walls for expansion. All available ground is built on. The area inside the walls is approximately 1 acre only.
15. The buildings are generally in good repair.
16. The conduct of both European and Indian Staff with few exceptions was very good. During the strike the Prison Launch was manned and run by European Warders and rendered considerable assistance in despatching H.M. Mails. Two European officers materially assisted as bakers to the community. Useful scavenging work in the town was done by prisoners under European Warders' supervision.
17. The general health of the staff was good. Although there was a considerable amount of malaria at Lai Chi Kok there were no serious cases. I regret to record the death of Principal Warder Pritchard of heat apoplexy at Lai Chi Kok.
18. Captain Bloxham, Assistant Superintendent of Prisons acted as Superintendent of Prisons during my absence on leave from 4th April to 8th December.
19. The appliances for use in case of fire are in good condition and the water supply adequate.
20. The rules laid down for the Government of prisons have been complied with.
21. I append the usual returns.
J. W. FRANKS, Superintendent of Prisons.
13th May, 1926.