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Dunstan Times, Issue 947, 11 June 1880, Page 2

We have to acknowledge receipt from the Groverment Printer of the first batch of Parliamentary Papers and Bills as laid before the existing Parliament. Amongst the former are papers relating to the Mail Services, on Education, Suggestions on Forests in New Zealand, Despatches to the Secretary of State, and not the least interesting is correspondence relative to the appointment of Mr W. J. Barry as Lecturer on Emigration to New Zealand. The Bills include—“. Regulation “Corrupt Practices Prevention,” “ Election Petitions,” “Electric Telegraph Amendment,” and “Licensing.”? This latter includes22s clauses and 11 schedules, and though while being apparently a very carefully prepared measure, is still wonderfully cumbrous. One of tho'principal features in the measure is that no new licenses shall be granted until the ratepayers of the district shall have previously determined by vote, due notice of poll to be given, whether the publicans’ licenses within the district may or may not be increased, but if the votes are in favour of an increase, it shall not be imperative upon the Licensing Committee to issue any new license. The provision is a wise and timely one, and whether the Parliament in its wisdom decides to either accept of the measure in part or whole, we hope—and we feel fully assured we shall be supported by a very large majority—that this particular provision will become law. The question of new licenses is over aud anon cropping up, and to throw the onus of saying either aye or nay on to the shoulders of the Licensing Commissioners is neither fair to the gentlemen themselves nor desirable. No fitter tribunal for the settlement of the question of the number of licensed houses in a district can be than the residents, and with them it should rest. Objections to the granting of renewals may also be made by memorial from residents. The proposed annual fees are L4O in a Borough, and L3O outside a Borough ; this clause is sure to meet with opposition, and wo doubt if it will pass. The penal clauses are stringent.