THE LICENSING ISSUE.

Hokitika Guardian, 10 November 1925, Page 1

THE LICENSING ISSUE.

AIR. 1 SLIT’S OPINION. CHRISTCHURCH, November 8. Mr L. M. l.sitt lias replied to Mr I). M. Findlay, president of the New Zealand Moderate League, as Iollows: “M.r Findlay informs the people of New Zealand that the Moderate League, as a component part of the Licensing Reform Association, had made its appeal for the third issue as n means of expressing the demand for reform, and they were gratified at the response of the electors. Tho real fact is that Mr Skerrett. Ksent a circular letter, bended ‘private and confidential,’ lo all the members of the associated clubs, Iho purport of which was to urge them, whether /they believed in State Control or not, to vole for it. It could not be carried, the vote counted against Prohibtion, ami if a large vote was given for the third issue the legislators would he impressed Ihe more likely to give the clubs the liquor legislation they desired. Probably Mr Skerret was not the only one giving ibis advice. I claim that Hie slim action robs the State Control vote of all value, as an indication of electors''desire for-the third issue. Its added strength is due lo the switching over of ('oniiiiuanrc voles lor Ihe purpose stated.-”

MODERATE LEAGUE’S REJOINDER.

WELLINGTON. November 3. Mr D. AL Findlay, president of the New'* Zealand Moderate League, in replv to Air L. M. isitt. states that Mr fsitt. who lias always denounced the iniquity of the third issue as reducing the Prohibition vote, now appears to agree that the Slate Control voter was distinctly voting for another and better form of licensing, hut in the New Zealand Alliance statement, appearing simultaneously. 'he claims that the 52,372 voles for State Control must he counted against Continuance. “ They cannot- have it both ways,” states Air Findlay. “As a matter of fact, the increase in the middle issue vote cannot he construed in any other way than a declaration for the licensing system. It would appear, however, that- the Alliance are out to place every obstacle in the way of reform. So far as AH Tsitt is concerned. the public now know how to value the opinion of a gentleman who has the audacity to accuse a man of the standing and high repute of -Mr Charles Skerrett, K. 0., of slim tactics.