FALLING BIRTHRATE

Grey River Argus, 21 May 1938, Page 10

FALLING BIRTHRATE

EXCUSE FOR WAGE CUTTING?

AUCKLAND, May 10.

A grave view of the shrinkage of the birthrate was taken by delegates co the Auckland Farmers’ Union conference, which unanimously adopted a remit urging that wages and salaries be based on the requirements of a man and his wife only and an adequate amount paid by the State for the maintenance of each child. It was stated that in 1870, the average size of families was 5.5. In 1936, it was 1.8. Actuarially, an average family of more than three was required for the continuance of the race.

“The State pays 15s a week for each child boarded out,” said Mr A. C. A. Sexton, M.P. “Surely a similar amount should bo paid Io parents for the upkeep of their own children.”