The problems of vital statistics are of the utmost importance as affecting in many ways the welfare of the people. In connection with the study of such problems the value of reliable life tables applicable to the general population is well recognized. The preparation of national life tables presents various difficulties, however, if the results are to command respect for their reliability. It is therefore in the hope that British actuaries will be interested to see how these difficulties have been met in another country that the following notes have been prepared.