Considering the improved medico-technical possibilities, the treatment of handicapped newborns has weighty consequences for all interested persons. But 'letting die' these infants can never be a solution for this problem. It is not possible to find a reliable test for an authorized withdrawal of vital treatment. The law has to require that medical treatment is carried out in all cases in which the infant is viable with medical support. In exceptional cases the prosecution of the responsible persons can be relinquished.