THE LICENSING BILL.

New Zealand Herald, Volume LI, Issue 15729, 2 October 1914, Page 7

THE LICENSING BILL.

COUNCILS AMENDMENTS. [BT TELEGEAPH.—PRESS ASSOCIATION.] Wellington-, Thursday. Is- the House of Representatives this evening the Prime Minister moved that the amendments made by the Legislative Council in the Licensing Amendment Bill be agreed to. Mr. Isitt objected to the deletion of tho words, " and of a strength not exceeding 20-per centum of proof spirit," in subclause 11 of clause 6, as tending to leave an opening for dealers in New Zealand wine to fortify the wine. Tho Primo Minister read opinions from Departmental officers to show that if the words were retained it would be impossible to make a New Zealand wine that would keep, but finally be agreed to delete this amendment from bis motion and a committee, consisting of Messrs Harris, Isitt, and Massey, was appointed to center with the Legislative Council on the point.

The remainder of the amendments were then agreed to.

In reply tb Mr. Mac Donald, the Prime Minister said he had invited the member for the Eastern Maori District to confer with the law draughtsman, and if a satisfactory clause could bo drafted dealing with the cost of the Maori licensing polls he would have it introduced into the Bill by Governor's Message before His Excellency signed the Act.