The Vagrancy Problem. The Case for Measures of Restraint for Tramps, Loafers, and Unemployables: With a Study of Continental Detention Colonies and Labour Houses

** "The Vagrancy Problem" by William Harbutt Dawson is a look into societal problems in the early 1900s, dealing with the growing number of vagrants and jobless people, and the issues they cause for society. The book says that there is a requirement for new laws to handle these problems in a more effective manner. Dawson makes comparisons to mainland Europe's ways of handling these problems, and suggests a strict, disciplined way to deal with those who are idle, instead of putting up with them. Dawson argues that England's Poor Law system is not equipped nor suited to handle the uptick in vagrants. He mentions how vagrants were handled in prior English history, shining a light on how society was tolerant of idleness, which he claims encourages a culture of dependency. He puts loafers into different categories, and critiques current policies since they fail to discourage vagrancy. Dawson uses his experience as a Poor Law Guardian to push for the need for stricter rules and harsher treatment of habitual loafers to ensure society is protected, and the significance of work and contribution to the community is upheld. **