Couples are rushing to wed in time for the Millennium, retailers in the wedding trade inform us. And many of them are hoping to produce a tot for 2000.

We would advise caution. Think of the problems of taking part in a Millennium baby boom. Firstly, mothers will be giving birth at the busiest time of the century. The maternity wards are packed, the hospital full of injured, drunken revellers and the Millennium Bug is about to strike.

Then there's the rest of little Molly Millennium's life to think of. Being part of a baby boom involves enduring bigger school class sizes and increased competition for college places and jobs.

A new baby for a new Millennium may seem a wonderful idea. But if you wait a year, your offspring may well thankyou for it later.

see NEWS 'Baby boom'

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