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Hokitika Guardian, 6 October 1928, Page 4

As read a third'time by the House of Representatives the Mental Defectives Amendment Bill is less thorough but much safer than in its original form. The greatest opposition was to .four proposals; sterilisation (with the consent of the guardian) ; prohibition of marriage; listing of retardates; and the definition-of “anti-social” conduct-. "Three of these proposals have now been withdrawn, and the Minister of Health lias promised further examination of the “anti-social” definition. The long debate arose through 'uncertainty ns to whether the clauses ob;ected to were to bs withdrawn." Government speakers held that , the Minister made it clear that he would not. insist upon their inclusion; the Opposition denied that a satisfactory assurance was given. \Ve are not so fearful as some of the opponents *of the danger of the offending clauses,, says the Wellington Post but we believe, nevertheless, that the withdrawal is wise. Public opinion is , not - educated on this subject. For this tile Government is not to blame. It has taken long enough before following investigation by legislation. The fact remains, however, that many people

something rashly experimental fin the legislation and are fearful of .the results. As the Bill now stands it contains the essential provisions enabling further investigation to be made, by properly-constituted board. •; If .this investigation reveals the need for greater powers, those powers can be given. The first step is for the board to gain public confidence, and to disabuse the minds of these who fear that faddists are to ho allowed to test tun proved theories. . !'