SUMPTUARY LAWS

New Zealand Listener, Volume 39, Issue 988, 25 July 1958, Page 11

SUMPTUARY LAWS

Sir,-The main points of M.M.J.’s letter (July 4) would appear to be these. First, that one group of opinion on the licensing laws recognises alcohol as a "demon," and receives medical support; this group further realises that weak persons may develop a craze for over-in-dulgence. Secondly, that while the other group has = privilege of drinking at home, they Wish to extend not only the licensed hours but also the temptation to alcoholics, for unchristian and selfish reasons. Thirdly, that believers in "demon" alcohol find good reason for abundant vocal protest in the cause of helping the weak. Perhaps, Sir, M.M.J. would answer these questions for me. First, does anv

reputable medical treatise refer to alcohol as .anything other than a depressant? Secondly, do we prohibit the sale of, say, cards, cigarettes or cars at any particular hour because there are those who may use them unwisely? Is home consumption a privilege or a right, and is it not extended to both the weak and strong? Do strong denouncements or prohibitions help the weak to face their weakness? And lastly, is pleasure unchristian, or the majority selfish? Sir, I feel personally that the group M.M J. represents would be _ better seeking ways and means of educating the weak to understand and overcome their problems, than in reviving old-fashioned wowserisms. B.E.G.M. and his Christchurch lawyer have stated their case for extension admirably. However, the civi-' lisation of licensed hours and restaurants would seem to depend largely on M.M.J.’s opposition becoming "far more vocal and voluble" themselves. Continued apathy will reap no -reward.

KHAYYAM

(Auckland).