THE PROHIBITION QUESTION.

Temuka Leader, Issue 2380, 9 July 1892, Page 3

THE PROHIBITION QUESTION.

The n.Voiion of a writ of certiorari, quashing the proceedings of the Sydenham Licensing Committee, concerning the refusal to renew the license of the Lancaster Park Hotel, came before Mr Justice Denniston in banco at Christchurch on Thursday. Messsrs Fisher, Harper, and Stringer, appeared for Mr T. Quill, the licensee. Counsel for the applicant J said that they were prepared to make the case a test one, the result to govern the other two hotels. They argued that four members of the committee were incapable of deciding the application judicially on account of bias, and that they had not decided according to law. Mr Caygill contended that the Supreme Court had no power to interfere with the Licensing Committee, which had been invested by the Legislature with special powers, and had acted honestly in the exercise of those powers. During the argument Mr Justice Dennistoun said that the Court of Appeal had not reversed the principle of his judgment that the Licensing Act was not a Prohibition Act, and that the Committee were bound to consider the requirements of persons who desired to purchase drink. Yesterday (Friday) argument was resumed and concluded. Judge Dennistoun took time to consider his judgment, and all cases stand over until judgment is delivered.