Downs Syndrome Controversy - protestors have a point

The film was very controversial when released in the UK in late 1968 due to its alleged linking of mongolism and psychopathy. There was some attempt to get it banned although it was never cut by the BBFC. As a result of the controversy, the producers were forced to add a voice-over at the beginning of the film (which is on the DVD).

Having watched the film, I think the protesters have a point. The screenplay would stand on its own as a study of a sociopath without the need for Martin to have a Mongol brother at all - who throws a ball violently at Martin as he walks away thus implying that Mongols are violent/psychotic - or imply, as it clearly does, that if you give birth to someone with Downs syndrome, your next child is more likely to be a psychopath ("Oh dear, oh dear" says the doctor when told about this). The camera also focuses on the Downs Syndrome chromosone after Martin kills a victim thus associating one with t'other.