LIVERPOOL. d " The recent efforts to secure, at least, the exemption of mothers of small children from war-work has brought to light the large number of mothers who are already
in such work," states a Liverpool Catholic Action notice. " This is due in many eases either to economic necessity in the home or to a preference for war-work to the normal work of the mother in the home. It is regreitahle that in these days of enlightened social reform it should be necessary for a mother to supplement the family income by undertaking work outside the home.
" Could not our Catholic women's organisations undertake to explore the possibilities of remedying this outstanding social evil?" says the Catholic Action notice.
GOVERNMENT EXEMPTS THEM "As regards the tendency of some mothers to engage upon war-work as an escape from home duties, again could not our Catholic women's organisations undertake a campaign for the better instruction of at least our Catholic mothers in the duties of homelife? This is not in the least to be unpatriotic. The Government itself has exempted married women from compulsory service and has discouraged any indirect pressure by Government officials on mothers with a view to entry into war-work. It would be unfortunate if the Christian ideal failed to be maintained through ignorance and appreciation on the part of the mothers of the principle that ' the mother's place is in the home.' "
Commenting on the Catholic Action statement, Mrs. John Bligh, J.P., Liverpool Archdiocesan President of the Union of Catholic Mothers, told the CATHOLIC HERALD that the U.C.M. has vigorously explored all causes and possible remedies, and is doing everything possible to persuade the young mothet to remain in her home.
" All thinking women realise," said Mrs. Bligh, " that the need for adequate family allowances in both peace and war-time is Ihe solution of the problem. In the Liverpool Archdiocese the definite policy is taught and accepted that the mother's place is in the home and everything that the U.C.M. can do to further this policy will be done in every foundation."