WEAKER LIQUEURS

Wairarapa Times-Age, 29 November 1940, Page 6

WEAKER LIQUEURS

NEW RULE IN FRANCE, REDUCING “ALCOHOLISM.” To reduce what the Petain Government describes as “alcoholism." French liqueurs and aperitifs are now being sold at only half their pre-war potency. On three days of the week spirits may not be served at all. There are no closing hours in France, except late at night, and anyone who wishes to drink brandy or a Cheaper spirit with or alter breakfast is tit liberty to do so. It is a common practice among workers. It is likely that if the new wateringdown. orders have insufficient something in the nature of the British restrictions will be introduced. Inc French press is calling urgently 101 less consumption of spirits in the interests of public health. People will then turn more than before to wine. Here the situation is not at all good. The Germans have occupied the whole of the Bordeaux elaret-nroducing country, a great pan of Burgundy and (he province of Champagne. ... The good vintages ol past yeais will soon be found in the restaurants of Germany. In occupied France the German’ soldiers are consuming huge quantities. A bottle of champagne may be bought in Paris for just ovci a shilling, in Rheims for even loss. This is one-sixth of the cost ol a bottle of inferior sparkling wino sold as ersatz champagne by the firm with which Ribbentrop is connected. |