LICENSING REFORM.

Auckland Star, Volume LVI, Issue 284, 1 December 1925, Page 9

LICENSING REFORM.

(To the Editor.) Sir, —The final figures of the liquor referendum surely indicate, not only that ■the people do not want Prohibition, but also that a large and growing majority are dissatisfied with Continuance, as it is at present carried on. In 1922 a majority of 54,000, and now in 1925, a majority of 74,000 voted against Continuance, hy Prohibition and State Control votes. This surely is sufficient indication that changes are required iv the facilities offered for tho sale of alcohol, and those changes in the direction of curtailment.

I submit herewith reforms that would meet with the approval of the large majority of the people, as,, whilst provision is made for the legitimate supply of liquor, illegal drinking and the making of new drunkards would hi discouraged. They are as follow: (1) Saturday afternoon and holiday closing. (2) Open front bars to view from street. (8) Lighter beer. (4) Inspection of liquor by the Health Department. (5) Inspection of measures used by the Weight/s and Measures Department. I would submit these reforms to the public, to the- New Zealand Alliance, and the Liquor Reform Association, believing that some of the reforms, if not all of them, will be found in the amendment of the Licensing Act, to he made next session of Parliament.—l am, etc., S.T.