Report of the Committee of Inquiry into the Various Aspects of the Problem of Abortion in New Zealand - New Zealand. Committee of Inquiry into various aspects of the Problem of Abortion in New Zealand; D. G. McMillan

This recommendation having been favourably considered, the following Committee was appointed:—

Dr. D. G. McMillan, M.B., Ch.B. (N.Z.), M.P., Chairman.
Mrs. Janet Fraser.
Dr. Sylvia G. Chapman, M.D. (N.Z.), M.B., Ch.B. (N.Z.).
Dr. T. F. Corkill, M.D. (Edin.), M.R.C.P. (Edin.).
Dr. T. L. Paget, M.R.C.S. (Edin.), L.R.C.P. (Lond.).

Although the immediate purpose of this inquiry was to investigate the problem of septic abortion, it at once became apparent that this matter was so inextricably bound up with the subject of abortion in general that all aspects would require consideration.

The Committee has therefore attempted to make this wider survey and to bring before you as complete a picture as possible.

The Committee has been guided by the Order of Reference, which was as follows:—

I. To inquire into and report upon the incidence of abortion in New Zealand, including—

(a) The incidence among married and single women;

(b) Whether the rate of incidence has increased during recent years;

II. To inquire into and report upon the underlying causes for the occurrence of abortion in New Zealand, including medical, economic, social, and any other factors.