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labour, are probably the most common causes in the production of
malnutrition. In the one case, the diet is insufficient, and in the
other, it is improper. In both, null ition is affected, and every endeavour
should be made to improve the knowledge of correct feeding,
and to direct attention to instances of inadequate feeding. In
the Report of the Royal Commission on Physical Training occur
these sentences: "We consider that the question of the proper and
sufficient feeding of children is one which has the closest possible
connection with any scheme which may be adopted for the physical,
and equally for their mental work. It is evident that among the
causes which tell against the physical welfare of the population, the
lack of proper nourishment is one of the most serious. The subject
demands special notice, not only as regards the existing state of
affairs, but still more in view of any increase of physical training,
throughout the State-aided Schools which may commend itself.
We are aware of the danger of further encroaching upon the independence
of parents, and of entering upon the wide question of how
far the State should go in relieving them of their primary responsibility.
But we are not on that account deterred from calling
attention to the necessity for better feeding, which, in our opinion,
has been fully demonstrated, nor from considering a practical remedy.
We have no desire to give encouragement to any inclination of the
parent to abandon any of his duties and responsibilities in regard to
the feeding and clothing of his children; but it must be remembered
that, with every desire to act up to their parental responsibility, and
while ready to contribute in proportion to their power, there are
often impediments in the way of the home provision of suitable
food by the parents. The proper selection, cooking and preparation
may often be a matter of serious difficulty to many parents." The
matter has attracted the earnest attention of the Education Committee,
and as a result of the inquiries made locally the Provision of
Meals Act 1906 has been adopted.
Physically and mentally defective children,
In May 1908 an enquiry was made as to the number of school
children in ihe district considered either physically or mentally
defective.
Lists were obtained from the teachers of those children whg