“CONSULTATIONS."

Lyttelton Times, Volume LXXX, Issue 10104, 1 August 1893, Page 2

“CONSULTATIONS."

TO THE EDITOR.

giR, —I sea by one of your late issues that Mr W. Hutchison said that 14,293 registered letters are sent from New Zealand to “ Tatters all,” of sweep fame, Sydney. Ho estimated that each letter contained £3. If ha had said £5 he would have been nearer tho mark. He asked the Postmaster-General if he could not intercept such letters. What next? The Postma'ster-Qeneral, very properly, I think, said nothing could be done. Now, I am suro that Mr Hutchison would be doing a great service if he would move in the direction of having these “ consultations” legalised in New Zealand. We have already the totalisator, and why nob “consultations ?”—the mildest of any form of gambling. Let the Government charge, say, per cent— i.e., 3d on ten and 6d on twenty-shilling tickets. It would nor. cost them a penny to colleet.for the reason that books ot tickets could be sent for stamping, either by impress or adhesive stamp. Tne proceeds could be applied to charitable aid, and I am positive that such a sum will be more than ample tor such requirements. And in the meantime let us by force of examplo—lhe only sure way—do all we can to reduce the gambling mania. It will work its own cure. Forced legislation will never bring about the desired result. By adopting my common-sense suggestion you indirectly compel the improvident to provide for themselves instead of as now the whole of the profits going into the pockets of a few. Now I may say that I have not any interest ia “ consultations,” &c., but simply desire the welfare of all.—l am, &s., JUNIUS.