NO LICENSE RALLY

Hokitika Guardian, 24 September 1930, Page 3

NO LICENSE RALLY

AT MASTERTON

[By Telegraph, Per Press Association.]

MASTERTON, September 23,

yyThe anniversary of the twenty-first :year of No-License in the Masterton electorate was celebrated to-night at a largely-attended public demonstration at which addresses were given by Hon. L. Isitt and Mr J. McCombs, ALP.

The following resolution was carried unanimously: “That this large and representative gathering of citizens'who on this September 23rd, 1930, are celebrating the twenty-fivst anniversary of No-License in Masterton, express their, appreciation of the great benefits derived from the closing of public house bars. The population has steadily increased from 5,182 in 1911 to 8,485’ in 1930. Crime has decreased. Convictions for drunkenness in 1909, with little more than half the population were 287, while last year there were only 32 persons convicted of drunkenness, and these latter in many instances were persons who had come from neighbouring towns. Post Office Savings Bank deposits have increased from £60,733 in 1909 to £314,630 last year. In' 1918 the capital value of property of-the borough was £1.201,395, and ,in 1928. it was £2,293,144. The value of property considerably more than doubled in ten years, and still the towns grows. In 1928 building permits were granted amounting to £47,762, in 1929 to £53.248, and during the year ending June 30th. 1930, permits amounted to £84,847. In many ways the town has improved. The amount spent on liquor in New Zealand is £6 per head. This would have meant £50,000 annually in Masterton. This money has been spent in a manner which had made the town moj'e prosperous, morally cleaner. ;nd the people happier, and this meeting pledges itself to work with enthusiasm and sacrifice to retain no license in Masterton.”

Upstarts gorged with gold we see, Aping airs of pedigree, Whilst the caustic critic still Pricks them with his fountain quill. Upstarts just mere mortals bo, Catching cold like you and ine; And as prompt relief assure, Taking Woods’ Great Peppermint Cure.