PREMIER IN THE SOUTH

Manawatu Times, Volume LXXVIII, Issue 12803, 29 May 1914, Page 8

PREMIER IN THE SOUTH

LICENSING MATTERS DISCUSSED Press Association.—Hv Telegraph. INVERCARGILL, May 28. Mr Massey received several deputhis morning on local matters and left before noon bv special train for Balclutha. One deputation from the No-license Party urged upon the Premier the necessity of having the promised Licensing Bill introduced early in the session and suggested that in the event of national prohibition being carried the time lapsing before it came into operation be reduced from four to one year. The deputation also pointed out the magistrate 's decision in the recent liquor case, Police v. Coleman, proprietor of the Club Hotel. There had been a good deal of indignation in No license circles in connection with the matter and there was likely to be an appeal and should the Supreme Court uphold the judgment delivered in .the Lower Court it was suggested that the law be amended. The Premier said the Licensing Bill would be introduced early so that every member would have an opportunity of expressing an opinion on it. Every member was pledged to a certain course of action and the Bill would have a fair and strong run. Referring to the question of the lapse of time he stated that if no-license or national prohibition were carried there would be a very important change in the finance of the country and he referred to the reduction that would follow in the revenue. Four years might be too long but anything less than two years would not be reasonable. As to the recent judgment Government could not interfere with it but after the appeal had gone through the Supreme Court Government could, if necessary, introduce legislation with reference to the Act. AT BALCLUTHA. BALCLUTHA, May 28. The Premier addressed a crowded meeting at Balclutha to-night and was accorded a very cordial welcome and u patient hearing. Mr Massey broke no new ground. His speech lasted about two hours. He referred to th.i improved conditions of matters and the Land Act, this subject occupying nearly half the time he was speaking. The Premier also referred to finance, loans raised at Home, advances to settlers and others, the success of workers' homes in town and country, the Public Service Board, immigration and the necessity for *vn increased population. At the conclusion he received a vote of thanks and confidence which was carried with little dissent. Afterwards he was en tertained at a social.