CHILD WELFARE.

Otago Daily Times, Issue 19582, 11 September 1925, Page 10

CHILD WELFARE.

AX AMENDING JELL. (From Our Own Correspondent.) WELLINGTON, September 10. Tho Bill dealing with child welfare has been amended in certain directions by tho Education Committee. An amendment lias been made in clause 24. A penalty nf £IOO or imprisonment for 12 months on summary conviction is provided in regard to any person who has. or attempts to have, sexual interconres with a female inmate resident in all institution ; also for any person in whose charge a female inmate has been placed pursuant to Hie Act; or for the husband to have sexual intercourse with such inmate at any time while she continues to he under such charge. Consent is not to bo a defence under such circumstances. An amendment lias been made to section 56 providing that in the event of the death of any inmate, or if anv inmate cannot bo found, any moneys standing to Ids credit may. with approval, bo paid into the ordinary revenue account of the Consolidated Fund. Tim following addition has been made to section 40 regarding notification to u Child Welfare officer of the birth of an illegitimate child. On receipt of notice, it shall tic the duty of the officer to make inquiries and ascertain the condition of tiie child and its mother and if satisfied tho ease is one in which the welfare of the child icqnires that it; should be eared for as provided by the Act, shall report to the superintendent who shall direct that ail steps necessary in pursuance of tho Art shall be taken. It is proposed that agreements for maintenance of" children mav bo enforced as maintenance orders under the Destitute Persons Act. Provision is made for regulations with the ease of child-on in street Hading and places of public entertainment.