LIQUOR POLL IN U.S.A.

Timaru Herald, Volume CXXIII, 22 March 1926, Page 9

LIQUOR POLL IN U.S.A.

“WETS” CLAIM BIG VICTORY. REPLY BY “ DRY ” ADVOCATES. By Cable—Press Association—Copyrlsnt. Australian and N.Z. Cable Association (Received March 21, 11.5 p.m.) NEW YORK, March 20. Prohibition continues to hold the centre of public interest through the United States, during the past fortnight. particularly, due to the nationwide unofficial refevenduih conducted by four hundred newspapers, which printed ballots - asking their readers to express their sentiments on prohibition, namely repeal, continuation, oi; light wines and beers. Each ballot had to be signed. The polls, which closed to-night, show: For repeal or modification 2.519.1158 1< or continuance of prohibition 495,004 It is expected, when the complete vote has been tabulated, it will total 5,750,000, and tlio .same proportion oi five to one lor repeal or for modification. ihe M ots claim the poll is representative of the popular will. I lie Drys, who fought • tho referendum and asked their ■ supporters to refrain from-voting, say the poll represents only the areas known as wet strongholds. They allege that if 11,10 n i every five Americans desires modification, thou -his statement should long ago have been able to bring about a change in the laws.