VENEREAL DISEASE

Evening Post, Volume CII, Issue 80, 1 October 1921, Page 6

VENEREAL DISEASE

WOMEN OPPOSE NOTD7ICATION.

Strong objection to the compulsory clauses of the Social Hygiene Bill was voiced at the W.C.T.U. Convention on Thursday j and the following resolution was carried unanimously:—" That the convention is strongly opposed to the introduction of any system of notification or compulsory treatment of ■ venereal diseases, believing . that, any such -system would tend to defeat the object at which measures for dealing with these diseases must aim, viz., the securing of- accurate diagnosis and adequate treatment at the easliest possible moment of sufferers, and the con mention urges upon the Minister of Public Health to make adequate provision.- throughout the Dominion for the treatment of venereal disease."

The' question of notification was also discussed; at . yesterday's "sitting of the conference of the National Council of Women,, and, after a, lengthy discussion, the following resolution was carried by 13 votes to 6 :—_ .

"That this conference protests against the proposal to introduce compulsory notification of venereal disease, and. the compulsory examination . and treatment of persons suspected of suffering from the disease; The conference considers that a"ny form of compulsion must nullify the efficacy of the proposed measures. It- is urged instead that the Government should increase the opportunities for free ; treatment at hours and in places suitable for both'sexes." ' . '