THE FEEBLE-MINDED.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXIV, Issue 16, 11 September 1912, Page 4

THE FEEBLE-MINDED.

The new President of the British Medical Association, Sir James Barr, referring recently to the problem of the feeble-minded, expressed the view that physical degenerates should not be allowed to take any part in adding to the race. He was aware that in taking this stand he came into direct conflict with at least some of the churches which advocated a high birth-rate regardless of the consequences. In Britain the feeble-minded were a growing incubus on the nation and should be dealt with in the most humane manner and segregation would, he thought, comport best with the general feeling of the community. A Bill is now before the British Parliament which provides for making further and better provision for feeble-minded and other

mentally defective persons has passed its second reading. Some object to it because it violates the principle of the liberty of the subject. On the other hand, its object is stated to be to put persons under appropriate control who at present are under inappropriate control. £150,000 is, under this measure, to be granted to local authorities to work the Act.