LIQUOR TRAFFIC

Evening Post, Volume CXXXIII, Issue 45, 23 February 1942, Page 7

LIQUOR TRAFFIC

MAORIS AND TERRITORIALS

GOVERNMENT CHARGED

A deputation i'rom the New Zealand Alliance waited upon the MethO? dist Conference today. The deputation, consisted of the Revs. J. A. Lopdell and Russell Grave and the Superintendent, Mr. H. W. Milner, who addressed the conference, Mr. Milner dealt first of all with the drink traffic amongst the Maoris, pointing out thst the Government was now practically an agent for the liquor traffic amongst the Natives in the King Country. The Government also was charged with a breach of faitb in connection with wet canteens in Territorial camps, for the definite promise was given that there would be no wet canteens in Territorial camps. "Has the Government changed its attitude with reference to wet canteens in Territorial camps?" aiked Mr, Milner. "I have evidence," he said; "that Territorial troops on a route march were deliberately dismissed in front of a hotel and Territorials under age were served in the bar." Referring to the amount spent on liqupr in recent years, M.r. Milner said that the <}rink bill for last year was almost £10,000,000, thus" making nearly £22.000,000 since the beginning; of1 the war. POSITION IN RUSSIA. "Russia," said ijVlr. Milner, "has prohibited vodka, aqd in her march to victory is doing all she possibly can to create a sober nation, all-out for victory." (Applause.) The Rev. IT. Ryan, replying on behalf of the conference, pledged the support of the church to work for the alliance.