TEMPERANCE REFORM COUNCIL

Otago Witness, Issue 4033, 30 June 1931, Page 61

TEMPERANCE REFORM COUNCIL

The annual meeting of the Otago Temperance Reform Council was held on Tuesday evening in Slade Hall, Central Mission. The Rev. J. Pringle presided, and there was a splendid attendance of delegates and members. Reports from delegates attending the New Zealand Alliance annual meeting were delivered by Miss Clyde,. Revs. J. D. Smith and R. G. M’Dowell, Messrs D. Beath and A. A. Campbell. The delegates were heartily thanked for their work and reports. Resolutions were adopted strongly supporting the proposals of the New Zealand. Alliance that the licensing law should be amended to the effect that breweries should be allowed to sell to the licensed liquor trade only, on the ground that breweries are largely the source of supply for keg parties and sly-grog sellers, both in licensed and no-license districts; and that breweries can legally supply people of any age with liquor, to the great harm of the young people, and in appreciation of the Wickersham Commission’s judicial report in the United States, which, after 18 months taking evidence, was so overwhelming in favour of the national benefits of Prohibition. It was resolved that the Otago Council congratulate and thank the Rev. J. R. Blanchard upon his acceptance of the New Zealand Alliance presidency, and wish him much success in the work of temperance reform and marked progress of the movement under his leadership. The following officers were re-elected: —President, Mr H. S. Adams, M.A., LL.B.; hon. secretary and treasurer, Mr R. D. Polson; Finance Committee — officers and Messrs James Adam and W. B. Qucnnell; challenge department, Mr E. W. Isbister. Refreshments were provided by the District Executive of the W.C.T.U., to which a hearty vote of thanks was accorded.