“Under The Plum Trees” ‘valuable’ Or... (Press, 23 February 1977)

The recent hearing of the Indecent Publications Tribunal in Wellington addressed the controversial book "Down Under! : the Plum Trees," characterised as an explicit sex-instruction manual. Mr H. R. Sorensen, representing the Secretary for Justice, argued that the book violated commonly accepted standards of decency and sought to have it declared indecent or inappropriate for those under 18 years old. Expert testimony was given in support of the book by a range of professionals, including a schoolteacher, a priest, a doctor, and a psychologist. The tribunal reserved its decision following an opening dominated by legal arguments regarding party status for Mr George Joseph, who was representing the parents of a boy whose photograph was included in the publication without their consent. Mr Joseph contended that the use of the photograph could lead to ridicule for the now 12-year-old boy who was only five when it was taken. While Mr Joseph and the boy's mother described the book as "disgusting" and expressed concerns over the potential psychological harm it could cause, Mr Alister Taylor, the book's publisher, maintained that permission was obtained from the photographer who took the photo. The tribunal chairman, Mr L. W. Greig, allowed Mr Joseph to gain full party status for the case. Mr Sorensen detailed some of the book’s content, claiming it promoted sodomy, masturbation, and homosexuality using "disgusting language" and even advocated illegal contraception for minors. He characterised the book as lacking any real merit—medical, legal, or scientific—and expressed worries over its availability in the general public, particularly given its price of $5.95. During the hearing, the first expert witness, Father Felix Donnelly, defended the book, asserting that its frank discussion of sexual matters was necessary for youth education despite its unorthodox approach. He acknowledged, however, that it fell short in discussing the emotional implications of sexual activity. Another witness, secondary schoolteacher Mr Robin Duff, praised the book as an impressive resource that reflects the reality of students’ conversations about sex, despite potential sensitivities around its content. Mr J. J. Shallcrass, an educator from Victoria University, suggested that the book could help bridge communication between parents and children regarding sexual health topics. He argued for the importance of providing comprehensive information to all young people, countering Mr Joseph’s claim that such discussions should only be limited to selected groups. Clinical psychologist Dr Margaret Sparrow and Dr Michael Hull also supported the book, highlighting its capacity to offer reliable information in a relatable manner for youth. They emphasized the need for education on sexual matters to be presented factually, advocating against moralistic views that may hinder understanding. The tribunal faced the complex decision of whether the book could corrupt youths, balancing its potential benefits against the expressed concerns from concerned parents and representatives.

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