conceive of a relaxation of the proprieties of life which might
lead to acts of immorality.

In this connection the Committee desire to call attention to the
excellent work done by the Y.W.C.A. and other bodies in the
provision of hostels in which girls are provided with board and
lodging at very reasonable cost. The Committee were surprised to
learn that full advantage was not taken of these provisions, and
that the accommodation at these hostels was not fully occupied. It
would appear that many girls resent the very slight amount of
supervision and restraint exercised over them, precisely as they do
parental control.

(4.) The presence in the community of individuals, especially
girls, who are to some degree mentally defective or morally
imbecile. The Committee were given several individual instances in
which such girls had acted as foci of infection; they are easily
approached, and facile victims for men. In spite of a degree of
mental or moral defect they may be physically attractive.

(5.) Economic conditions which delay marriage may reasonably be
regarded as a factor in conducing to an increased frequency of
extra-marital sexual relationship. Graph A in the appendix shows
clearly that the age of marriage in both sexes has, with slight
fluctuations, steadily increased from 1900 to 1921.

(6.) Alcohol tends to the dissemination and persistence of venereal
disease: it increases sexual desire, lessens control, causes the
individual to be less careful as regards cleanliness, &c., after
exposure to infection, and militates against effective treatment.
It is to be pointed out, however, that the lower control possessed
by some individuals may be the actual predisposing cause, both of
laxity in sexual matters and of the excessive ingestion of alcohol.
There appears no doubt that alcohol is an important factor in the
prevalence of venereal disease, although probably not so potent as
represented by some witnesses.

(7.) Accidental infections are undoubtedly rare. They may arise
from contact with W.C. seats, dirty towels, and eating and drinking
utensils in public places.

(8.) Other factors of minor importance which were mentioned in
evidence were the modern dress of women, which was stated to be in
certain cases sexually suggestive, and