THE MAINE VOTE.

Manawatu Herald, Volume XXXIII, Issue 1056, 14 October 1911, Page 4

THE MAINE VOTE.

Sydney, October 12

Canon Boyce, Archdeacon of West Sydney, and president of the British Empire league in Australia, points out that prohibition is still in force in Maine. The recent vote was only on the question of altering the Constitution, so that the State Legislature might have power to repeal the prohibitory law if it desires.

Canon Boyce, thinks it improbable that Parliament will view the poll as a mandate to introduce local option voting. The voting was so close that it was most likely a second count would be required.

The Rev. J. Dawson, secretary of the New Zealand Alliance, understanding that the recount of the vote on the question of prohibition in Maine was to take place on October 9th, sent the following cable message to the Rev Dr J. F. Berry, superintendent of the Civic League, and editor of the “ Civic Record,” Waterville, Maine : “Cable to-day number votes “Yes” “No.’ Explain present position. Write full particulars first mail. — (John) Dawson.” Dr Berry sent the following cable message in reply :—“Corrections completed October 9th. No majority seven hundred forty-eight Total vote about hundred and twenty-one thousand. —Berry.”

The issue on which the electors were to vote “Yes” or “No” was; “Shall the prohibitory amendment to the State constitution be repealed.” Mr Dawson understands Dr Berry’s message to mean that the people have voted “No” —that the prohibitory amendment shall not be repealed.