NO-LICENSE REFORM.

Evening Star, Issue 14631, 29 July 1911, Page 6

NO-LICENSE REFORM.

TO TUB EDITOR. Sir, —Up to the 30th of June ’Masterton has had two years of the above reform Writing in June the Rev. A. T. Thompson. 8.A., 8.U., in answer to a request for his opinion af. to the working of No-license, wrote as follows ;—“ In answer I send yoa fhe following testimony. As a citizen and minister of roh'trion in Masterton for almost five years I have much pleasure in submitting it. Nothing, it would seem, but the set determination not to be convinced would enable mo to hold out any longer against the cumulative and overwhelming evidence as to the improvement of Masterton in certain evident directions, and the success generally of No-iioense in our electorate during the period of its trial. Our court, returns tell the story of a distinct—l might say phenomenal—improvement in public morals. Our savings bank returns, aided by the reliable evidence! of reputable business men, tell in favor of the financial well-being of the community. Onr own eyes hear witness every day to a cleaner, happier, healthier town. There are, I verily believe, more comforts in the homes of many of onr people in consequence. Speaking as a minister, there has been almost the entire disappearance of appeals for help, railway fares, beds, meals, deposits, and fees at labor bureaus, which used to be my continual experience under the liquor license system. The change is, at least in my experience, remarkable. My recent visit to the Old Country and the Continent made me come back more convinced than ever of the awful blight and curee of drink in a community, and of our own good fortune in Masterton and electorate to be rid of its licensed sale. It must never come back, as we value onr own happiness, peace, and prosperity, and that of onr fellowmen.” One remark on the above splendid testimony to the beneficial effects of No-license No-license in operation continually wins praise and admiration from those who previously looked upon it with snsp ion. It wins over many of its opponents; it satisfies its supporters. There must be something good in it.—l am, etc., AsTI-AiCOHOi. Jnlv 29.