LICENSING.

Hokitika Guardian, 4 August 1926, Page 3

LICENSING.

THE BALLOT PAPER CONTROVERSY. WELLINGTON. Aug. 2. Since the publication of a forecast of some features of the Licensing Act Amendment Bill there has been much comment in regard to the Government plans.

It lias been assumed in some quarters that the new bill, is framed with the object of securing a widened form of verdict of the electors, and a suggestion of this is contained in the resolution of the New Zealand Alliance, which repeats its adherence to the demand for a two issues ballot paper. If no-lieence enthusiasts sec a Machiavellian influence behind tho amendments they have no reason for anxiety as the Government’s Bill will propose no change in the ballot’paper. It will appear in the schedule as in the former Act, with the three issues—Continuance, State Purchase, and No License The measure may, however be considerably changed during its passage through Parliament, but ns matters are being hurried this session in view of the Prime Minister’s early departure for England there is small probability of so controversial a matter being finally dealt with until next session. The licensing law Ims becomo so complicated owing to continual amendments since 1908 that the Government is taking this opportunity of consolidating the enactments, showing clearly any proposed changes. The Bill is expected to make its appearance early next week.