THE “MALNUTRITION OF CHILDREN’’ BOGEY

Wanganui Chronicle, Volume 79, Issue 206, 3 September 1935, Page 6

THE “MALNUTRITION OF CHILDREN’’ BOGEY

Sir, —It is stated in speeches all over the country that “The Director Gen eral of Health has reported that of the 51.000 school children 71 per cent, were found to bo suffering from health defects and malnutrition owing to con suming food of an inferior quality— And this in God’s own country!” The inference conveyed, or the allegation actually made, is that this enormous percentage of our children are underfed owing to the depression and is a result of the GovernmentY policy. A more misleading half truth has rarely been made even in a political campaign and as the merest glance at the Director General’s report proves this, it must be deliberate. Here are the facts—the DirectorGeneral says “there is no reason to believe that the health of the people had in any way been impaired by the economic crisis.” His return of subnormal nutrition amongst children shows a steady decrease from seven per cent, in .1929 to 5J per cent, in 1933. The Labour candidates, however, have concentrated oi •‘Malnutrition” and are definitely stating that this means food of inferior quality. The report from which they profess to quote, but which they distort makes the difference perfectly clear —“Malnutrition” includes about 18 per cent, dental defects leaving 53 per cent, duo to other causes. Twelve per cent, enlarged tonsils, 15 per cent, incipient goitre, and four per cent, defective vision and under six per cent, from i'isulficient nutritive foods. It also blames night amusements, late hours, ami absence of restful sleep us oue of the main causes. This cruel misrepresentation of the condition of our children is inexcusable even as a political weapon. It causes needless alarm aud gives an entirely false impression.—AVe are. etc., N.Z. AV ELEA RE 1. EAGU E.