10 OCTOBER 1925, Page 21

OPEN - AIR SCHOOLS

[To the Editor of the SPECTATOR.]

SIR,—In the Spectator of September 12th your correspondent " H. N. S." states that " the gross deformities of rickets so often met with in Glasgow are unknown in New Zealand." The comparison seems hardly applicable in this instance. Child welfare in New Zealand has reached a very high standard-- the highest in the Empire. Sir Truby King's marvellous organ- izing of the Plunket Society, which was founded by Lady Plunket, is partly responsible for the fine physique of the young. The Society interests itself in the unborn infant. The expectant mothers are given free advice, which they usually seek. They are instructed in the feeding and in the care of the child. Advice is obtainable at all times, both in the towns and in the country districts. The force of resistance in the child's consti- tution is strengthened, which makes it almost immune to disease. It is due to these facts as well as to those mentioned by your correspondent that rickets arc practically non-existant in New Zealand. Circumstances which surround child life in Glasgow do not permit of a fair comparison between the children of the two countries.—I am, Sir, etc.,

MART JELLETT.

Fendalton Road, Christchurch, New Zealand.