The social and legal aspects of sexual abnormality.

Abstract

laboratories, but some system of approach would have to be evolved so that it was done through a solicitor or some recognized representative of the persons concerned. Sometimes .the results of laboratory examination favoured the defence and on quite a number of occasions in which the police were potential prosecutors, when informed {)f the laboratory findings, they dropped the case and no prosecution took place. The work of the laboratory was as impartial as possible. In cases of drunkenness in charge of a motor vehicle-in some cases associated with serious accidents-the occasions on which blood-alcohol tests were asked for were comparatively few; in fact, it seemed to be the exception rather than the rule. Again. the occasions on which the blood of the victim in a serious or fatal motor accident was submitted for examination were comparatively rare. Yet, in one case submitted this test completely exonerated the motorist in a fatal accident. The smell of alcoholic liquor was noted at the post-mortem on the deceased and the blood was examined for alcohol. The result showed high alcohol content (equivalent to 8 oz. of neat whisky). Police enquiry revealed that the deceased had consumed much whisky at a nearby club, had left in a state of intoxication, tried to mount his bicycle and wobbled into the path of an approaching motor car. There was no prosecution of the motorist. Experience with the American forces would indicate that the Americans make far greater use of blood-alcohol tests-not only in accident cases, but also to detect loitering. For example, a military driver arriving late at his destination gave mechanical defect and/or repairs as the cause. If this was doubted, a sample of his blood might be taken. If alcohol was found, it was considered as evidence of illicit "calls" on the journey-such calls being considered the real explanation of the delay. The PRESIDENT proposed a hearty vote of thanks to Dr. Firth, which was accorded by applause.