LICENSE v. NO-LICENSE.

King Country Chronicle, Volume II, Issue 76, 3 April 1908, Page 3

LICENSE v. NO-LICENSE.

TO THE EDITOR. i Slß,— Would .you kindly grant me J space in your paper to define my J position as there are some who seem to have misapprehended or misunderstood my attitude, because of my remarks when proposing the vote of thanks to Mr Isitt at the close close of his lecture. The logical anomaly of the local liquor question in the King Country is a real difficulty to many of its residents, whether they are in favour of " License " or " NoLicense," and I hoped that in answer to mv remarks Mr Isitt, in his reply, would have dealt with the peculiar position specially. To me the issue is quite clear, as I have come too often in contact with the dire results of drink directly and indirectly, to convince me that absolute prohibition is the true remedy. And I hope the dav is not far distant when alcohol shall be placed in the same categary as morphia, laudanum, etc. But quite apart from any consideration as to the evil results of drink, liquor licenses are contrary to the principles of our country. We pride ourselves on our " Democracy," and our opposition to " Monopolies " or " Trusts," yet we tolerate, and many support, the greatest monopoly and trust in the world —" The Licensed Liquor Traffic." Therefore, even if we have no other reason, it is our duty to put aside all local considerations, and to use our powers to fight the " Monopoly" as a national as well as an individual enemy. 1 hanking vou for inserting this.—l am, etc., R. MITCHELL.