THE RESULT OF REDUCTION

Marlborough Express, Volume XLII, Issue 260, 2 November 1908, Page 4

THE RESULT OF REDUCTION

We have been asked what would be the result in the event of a reduction of licensed houses being decided upon at the election, how and in what manner would the desired reduction b© effected? The following is the law upon the subject:—lf the number of votes recorded in favour of a reduction in the number of licenses is an absolute majority of all tho voters whose votes were recorded, the proposal is deemed to be carried, and supersedes the proposal for continuance of licenses. The Licensing Committee then reduces publicans' licenses by not less than 5 per cent. or more than 25 per cent; of the total number existing, excluding forfeitures. Provision is made that when a reduction vote is carried the licenses shall be reduced by one at least when the total number does not exceed ten, two when not over thirty, and three at least when the licenses exceed thirty. If the number of votes recorded in favour of the proposal _ that no-license shall be granted is not less than three-fifths of fill the voters whose votes were recorded, the proposal is declared to be carried, and supersedes the proposal for reduction and for continuance, and no licenses can be granted.