Local Option.

Manawatu Herald, Volume III, 21 April 1891, Page 2

Local Option.

• "- The election of Licensing Committees this year is of more importance than it has heen hitherto, as the term for which the members are elected will be for three years, instead of one. In one way the triennial elections will do good, as it will enable committees to see that their suggestions are given effect to, and a good committee will be of much service. Of course, on the other hand, a bad committee has full power for a much longer term. It will be necessary when the time comes for the election of a committee for the Borough, that care is taken to select good men. In some parts of the colony great fights have taken, and will take, place, betAveen those in favour of public houses and prohibitionists. In Sydenhain the committee that has been returned, are composed of men who will close every public house in the district, and for three years they have the control. In justice to them it must be stated that they publicly announced their intentions, and secured their seats because of them. It appears to be anything but a satisfactory result, as the closing of such houses must result in a great loss to the tenants, and to the owners. We feel that the Act is wrong somewhere. No doubt it is right that the people should have a voice, more especially about allowing additional licenses being granted, and also in withdrawing those already granted, on certain conditions; but to permit a bare majority to upset the livelihood of any number of persons, seems out of the way. Such instances as Sydenhain will serve to show what may be done anywhere, and perhaps arouse the Government to put the question on a better basis. We have drawn attention to both sides, as our election must soon take place, and if any attempt to carry any particular view is to be made, we trust it will be made openly, so that the question may receive the consideration of those interested, and that no chance victory will be attempted to be snatched,