nurseries.

They have formed PANDA -- "Parents Against Nursery and Daycare Abuse''.

It is made up of past and present parents of nursery students.

Former Attorney General Mr. Saul Froomkin QC, from Mello, Hollis, Jones & Martin, will give them legal aid.

The group said Mr. Froomkin would advise it on what action to take.

It added statements would be made through Mr. Froomkin.

The committee has been formed amid controversy over allegations of child abuse.

Last week Independent MP Stuart Hayward claimed in the House of Assembly physical abuse was occurring at "one or two'' nurseries.

He did not name them -- but described regulations protecting children as woefully inadequate.

But Health Minister the Hon. Quinton Edness has challenged Mr. Hayward to put up or shut up over his allegations.

Mr. Hayward has stressed his claims do not relate to Nambour Day Nursery, which has been probed by Police and health officials.

Some parents have withdrawn their children from the nursery amid complaints over physical discipline but others have defended it.