SOCIAL PROBLEMS

Wairarapa Times-Age, 27 October 1941, Page 4

SOCIAL PROBLEMS

RESOLUTIONS BY MASTERTON WOMEN REPLY BY MR J. ROBERTSON. ‘DISTINCT IMPROVEMENT DISCERNIBLE.” Copies of resolutions bearing on social problems in New Zealand and passed by a public meeting of Masterton women for submission to the appropriate quarters, have been forwarded to Mr J. Robertson, member for Masterton, by Mrs T. R. Barrer, hon. secretary pro tem. In his reply, Mr Robertson states “that since 1935 and no doubt as a result of the wise legislation of the Labcur Government, a distinct improvement is discernible in the incidence of the evils referred to. It is significant to note, for instance, that deaths from Peptic abortion, even in spite of war conditions, are very considerably reduced from what they were in 1935 and the other related fact, namely, that the birth rate has shown a very definite upward tendency in the last six years, the number of babies born in 1935 being 23,965 as compared with 34,964 in the year ending June 30 last. “The measures taken to lighten the burden of parentage through the provision of free maternity care and medical and nursing attention, the provision of family allowances and better housing conditions are some of the agencies definitely designed to achieve this purpose and which I am sure, when the results are brought before your women’s organisations, will receive their support and endorsement. I would also draw your attention to the Domestic Proceedings Act passed in 1939 by the Labour Government which Act has had the effect of maintaining and preserving home life and preventing the breaking-up of homes which otherwise would have taken place. “Nevertheless, one must realise that there is still a great deal to be done and I feel sure that the Government will be able to rely on your valued support in carrying out further measures to bring about the results desired.”