Protection of Children.

Pelorus Guardian and Miners' Advocate., Volume 1, Issue 45, 1 July 1890, Page 3

Protection of Children.

The better protection of children is provided for in a Bill introduced by the Attorney-General in the Legislative Council. The maxium penalty for wilful neglect, abandonment, or iil-treat-ment of any child is to be £IOO, or two years’ imprisonment, with double penalty in oases the offender should be interested in the child’s death. Boys under 14 or girls under 16 are not to be allowed to beg or perform in the streets, nor are they to sing, play, or perform for profit between 9 p.m, and 6 a.m. except in proper places of entertainment; while the employment of children under 10 in any kind of performance is to be prohibited after the end of this year. Persons who cause this provision to be infringed are to be liable to a penalty up to £25, with the possibility of imprisonment for three months as well. Magistrates may, however, grant permits for children over seven to perform, subject to restrictions, in cases where their health will not be endangered. Extended powers are given to Magistrates of disposing of children whose parents or guardians may be convicted or committed for trial for breaches of the Act. Such children may be taken away from the parental control, and handed over to the care ol other relatives, or committed to an industrial school until the age of 16 is reached.