DECLINING BIRTH RATE

Evening Star, Issue 22577, 19 February 1937, Page 7

DECLINING BIRTH RATE

to the editor. Sir,—ln reply to Mr Herring on this subject, it is clear there is urgent need for some form of control of unfits marrying. That seems the only way to improve the race, with adequate feeding and' better environment also.

Large families are well in their way if parents are strong, but there is absolutely nothing being done by our Labour Government in the way of medical certificates for people contemplating marriage, and any weaklings, mentally and physically, can reproduce themselves like rabbits. Surely the public should be protected against having to provide for an unfit future generation. The poverty clause which Mr Herring introduces into his argument may be exaggerated. It is much a matter of efficient management in many cases. , Some mothers are wonderful managers, and their ability to rear large, healthy families on a small wage would put our focal home science enthusiasts in the shade, while many people arc born wasters, with absolutely no idea of money values. Many people now living were brought up in far worse conditions, and are none the worse for it.—l am, etc., February 18. B. E. Kite.