CRIME AND IDLENESS

New Zealand Herald, Volume LXX, Issue 21493, 17 May 1933, Page 13

CRIME AND IDLENESS

INFLUENCE ON YOUTHS PENAL REFORM LEAGUE The effect of unemploj'ment and social conditions on crime were discussed by Mr. J. A. Brailsford .at the annual meeting of the Howard League for Penal Reform, held last evening. Mr. N. M. Richmond presided. "Tho results of enforced idleness go much further than to produce an increase of crime," said Mr. Brailsford. "The young are the worst sufferers, and unless we face our responsibilities in this regard the evil consequences will follow for a generation. Tho greater harm by far is done to tho large numbers who never appear before the Courts or in our institutions."

The increasing use of probation had been blamed by some of the advocates of harsh penalties for the recent increase of crime, but the districts where probation was most freely granted in England had a comparatively low crime rate. The pica for the greater use of probation appeared to be well justified, although positive facilities for reform should be provided in association with probation. Mr. Brailsford claimed that under the present system reform was .impossible in prison, except by the prisoner's own virtue. There was no inducement to perform useful work. The following officers were elected:— Executive, the Rev. Wilna Constable, Miss Spence and Miss Potter, Messrs. H. Burton, Gillies, AV. A. Gray, F. C. Lopdell, and N. M. Richmond; treasurer, Mr. Egerton Gill; hon. solicitor, Mr. Julius Hogben.