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38
having parental authority over them, or any authority which may
be recognised in the country of birth. Naturally, serious emotional
disorders can result in this type of situation, and as well as grappling
with the normal problems of growing up, such children experience
additional problems of adaptation and conflict of authority.
The rise in the numbers of illegitimate births in the Borough,
as reported in the Report of 1962, gave rise to many sharp criticisms
of newcomers, and reference was frequently made to " unwanted "
babies. In view of the different behaviour patterns, which mean
that for some immigrants marriage and raising children are still not
synonymous, it cannot be denied that many children are born to
them out of wedlock. This does not mean, however, that all such
children are unwanted, on the other hand, many such mothers
struggle valiantly to fulfil the role of a caring mother without the
support of the father.
I am happy to report that certain anti-social problems, such as
noisy social gatherings and illegal parties appear to be easing. The
easing of these problems has been directly due to the co-operation
and active support received from members of the local police force.
Normally when referring to the police one thinks of their role in
relation to prosecution, and it is because of this that I would wish
particularly to draw attention to the diplomatic and preventive work
they have so skilfully performed among people who were creating
these problems.
The problems of newcomers, of their acceptance and adaptation,
are not confined to our Borough and consequently understanding of
such problems cannot best be found working in a narrow field. In
an attempt to improve my knowledge, understanding and efficiency
I have, of course, needed to keep abreast of current situations,
familiarise myself with the varied backgrounds of newcomers, meet
other people and organisations with experience in this field and to
attend discussion groups, discussions and conferences for this
purpose. Naturally, many of these activities encroach on my
week-ends and evenings, but the Council have also been kind
enough to grant me leave of absence to attend some of these functions.
For this I am extremely grateful.
In conclusion, I would again extend my grateful thanks to
Dr. Oldershaw and his Staff for the help and courtesy which is
always readily available, and to the Officers of the London County
Council with whom I am frequently in touch. I should also like to
pay tribute to the Staff of the Citizens' Advice Bureau for their help
and co-operation, and also to thank the Staff at our Town Hall,
whose advice and help I value.