Mended or Ended.

Stratford Evening Post, Volume XXXIX, Issue 63, 6 July 1914, Page 5

Mended or Ended.

DOMSNION LIQUOR SUPPLY. , i ■n.»n3i > “MODERATES” AND MR MASSEY [Pbb Pbesb Association.] Wellington, July 6. A deputation of about fifty, representing the “Moderate” side of the liquor question, waited on the Premier to-day. Mr Menteath, the chief spokesman, said that neither the Trade nor Prohibition parties coidd cl a: in to represent the public as a whole. Over 100,000 electors did not' vote on the liquor question at last poll. lie strongly deprecated legislation to “out” the use of alcoholic beverages by merely a nominal majority. On the other hand, it was :It much could' he done to improve the system under which liquor is sold. Mr Harcourt said the vote at last election showed that a reduction to fifty-five per cent, meant a loss of a million in revenue, and before any change was made some definite system of readjustment should be brought forward.

In reply, Mr Massey said the Government also held Moderate views on the question, and he did personally. The Government must do all they could to promote sobriety, without unreasonably interfering with the liberty of the subject. Parliament must be given an opportunity of expressing its opinion upon a matter of such public importance. The financial position was important. If prohibition were carried, the revenue lost would have to be replaced. He expressed pleasure at seeing men of “Moderate” views taking an interest in public affairs. He was sure their representations would receive the consideration they were entitled to.