Compensation

Manawatu Times, Volume XL, Issue 13949, 30 July 1918, Page 6

Compensation

HON. G. W. RUSSELL’S VIEWS. [Per Press Association.] DUNEDIN, July 29. Meprbscntative prohibitionists and •several business men waited on tho Hon. G. W. Russell to-day to urge Ministerial support of tho Efficiency Board’s proposals respecting tho total abolition of the liquor trade with compensation. The Minister made public for tho first time important details. Ho said he personally favoured tho deputation ’s request, but expressed a decided opinion that a large number of electors would view gravely the payment of £4,500,000 for the goodwill of the trade only. He alternatively mentioned n scheme by which open bars could bo closed for tho war period, and hinted that it might be worth the prohibitionists’ while to consider such partial prohibition. He expressed grave doubts as to the possibility of giving effect to the Board's proposal during the coming session, and subsequently, in the same session, passing necessary legislation to give effect to the decision of national prohibition if it was carried. Tho right of 80,000 soldiers to vote must bo considered. He had a doubt if tho country would agree to pay tho huge sum as compensation, for which no tangible asset remained. If prohibition were carried there would be an increased financial burden annually of £1,300,000. Ho cited the Efficiency Board’s recent memorandum answering Ministers' questions. Those replies emphasised that tho compensation would bo for goodwill only, and would bo determined by a special court. The details wore, however, strictly confidential, and, therefore, barred. Ho also stated that legislation must prevent any effort to resurrect tho trade, and also be made effective as regards total prohibition. Also that tho legislation should contain no provision whatever making compensation retrospective. SIR ROBERT STOUT OBJECTS. [Per Press Association.] WELLINGTON, July 29. In an address at the Unitarian Church last evening, Sir Robert Stout protested against the proposal to pay the Trade £4,000,000 or £5,000,000 compensation in tho event of New Zealand carrying prohibition. There had been no pledge by the State that tho monopoly would be continued. Many districts were already dry, and no compensation was paid. Why,, then, compensate or compromise with those who arc injuring the State?