Licensing Hours

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31139, 16 August 1966, Page 14

Licensing Hours

Sir.—The absurd statement that staggering men filled Wellington streets after 6 p.m is not true, and a reflection on the police force of that city. For an Englishman tn be critical of New Zealand restaurants is a joke. In all

England I never saw a “No Dogs Allowed" notice in a restaurant, even in Piccadilly. In the cafeteria at Victoria Coach Station, London, I saw a woman feed a dog from a saucer in the middle of the table. Five other women sat at that table. Continental hotels rarely have a bath. If one can be found it costs from 6s to 16s to use it. Tips, 12. to 15 per cent, are added to your account. An American travel book, “New Horizons,” says tips average 15 per cent in the United States. Let this American tell the world we are free of this curse on the mainland of New Zealand. — Yours, etc., C. W. HARNEY. August 15, 1966.

Sir, —We have recently had an expression of opinion on New Zealand licensing laws by visitors to this country, in a most forthright manner They condemn out of hand the stupidity of the existing hours and habits of drinking. When are responsible authorities going to get wise to the fact that, contrary to acting as a deterrent, they actu ally induce the conditions that visitors are shocked and appalled at? Surely, the unending discussion, allied to the opinions of numerous overseas visitors who are accustomed to normal drinking habits, shows that it is high time that New Zealand was put on a basis similar to that of most countries in the world. Nothing detracts so much from this country’s amenities as these outmoded ’aws. Let us have some action for improved conditions.— Yours, etc., F. P. FOTHERGILL. Kaiapoi, August 15, 1966.

Sir, —I only wish that those who advocate 10 o’clock closing would spare a thought for the people whom the change will affect—the publican, the policeman, and yes, even the convenience attendant. Speaking for one sector—the convenience attendants —I can see where those employees will have to take their beds with them. “We won’t be home until morning” will be the theme song from then on. —Yours, etc.,* FED UP. August 15, 1966.