LICENSING.

Ashburton Guardian, Volume XXIX, Issue 7818, 10 June 1909, Page 3

LICENSING.

Pur Pr«jss Association. CHRISTCHUI^H, Jime i) At tho annual meeting of-the I^yl>; telton Licensing Committee, the po|;ce reported that there had been a marked increase m drunkenness during tne past six months. They were not prepared to state the name of the particular houses responsible but the increase had been so marked that it was quite evident that tho licensees were not so particular as they should be m the conduct of their houses. The Chairman, Mr Bishop, Ml., speaking on behalf of the Committee, said jt was a curious fact that the in-: crease-had taken place during the period' which fitted m with the time, of taking tho local option poll. He urged tha licensees to put *heir houses m order, and to ■ instruct their em-; plovees not to supply hquor to those unfit to receive it. , • Mr Hoban, who appeared for the Trade said tho. licensees regretted, very much that there had been an increase of drunkenness, but during the past few months there had been a \ Great increase m shipping, which had contributed to tho increase mentioned. The licensees had discussed the matter at several meetings, and had decided not to apply for an extension or the . closing time from 10 p.m. to 11 p.m. Tlrs shoFld be put to their credit. Mr Bishop said they should always bo prepared to give credit to the decent licensee who was trying to better tnei condition bf things. ;