ALCOHOL AND PETROL.

Evening Star, Issue 20057, 24 December 1928, Page 8

ALCOHOL AND PETROL.

About two' months ago, Sir Robert Wallace, chairman of the London Sessions, in ;■ sentencing two motorists found guilty-of being drunk in charge of a motor car, suggested that there ought to,, be ft law prohibiting motorists from ’tithing any intoxicants whatcveri A London weekly of standing, commenting on. this obiter dictum, says that its absurdity is so patent that it is not likely to be taken seriously in aiiyi quarter., .There are, -however, more Prohibitionists 'relative to the rest of the population, in New Zealand than in Britain, and we are not sure that a great many of the jnore getive work-

ers among thorn would not heartily-en : dorse Sir Robert Wallace’s suggestion, despite its “ patent absurdity;” Such a law would bo difficult to draff, and impossible to enforce. Most people will agree that petrol and alcohol are not a good combination, but the effect's of an equal quantity of refreshment on two motorists anight be so altogether, different that -no hard and fast rule could be laid down. At'this festive season of the year, however, when- the consumption of both liquor and motor spirit takes a- distinct spurt, there can bo no harm ia ' reminding those in charge of , what can' become veritable projectiles hurtling . along our toads, that there should be moderation in all things. Immoderate indulgence in alcohol leads a certain type of driver to indulge in speeding of which perhaps he may not be so conscious as those whom he is driving or' as those whom, he may meet or pass along the road. Respect for the rights of others and concern for the safety of all is one of the distinguishing traits of good citizenship. '