THE LICENSING POLL

Otago Daily Times, Issue 17533, 27 January 1919, Page 6

THE LICENSING POLL

A STORMY MEETING, EXPLOITING AN UNFORTDNATE INCIDENT. (Pee Dnitbd Pbess Assooiation.) WANGANUL January 26. **■ tbsatro was packed last night, when Mr W. D. Bayley attempted to reply to the Moderate League in the matter of the forthcoming licensing polL As anticipated, the proceedings were very Btormy owing to the behaviour of a small body in the back of the halL The trouble was caused by Mr Bayley's remarks at Palmerston North, where he was reported to have stated that a New Zealand soldier was shot in Franco for leaving the trench to get a drink. The report of the disturbance which appeared in the Palmerston North paper was reprinted as an advertisement in the local evening' paper, and also circularised as a pamphlet in the street. From tho outset "booh-hooing" and counting out took place, even the - Mayor at the outset being refused an opportunity to explain why ho had not presided at the Moderate League meeting a few nights previously. Mr Bayley was unable to deliver his address owing to the noise, and eventually answered questions. He refused to make public the name of the soldier referred to, but offered to give particulars to a committee consisting of the Mayor and- two representatives of tH Returned Soldiers' Association, the committee to decide whether further publicity should bo given. This committee was appointed, and an announcement will be made in due course. Much indignation was expressed by a large body of the audience at the liquor supporters' obvious exploitation of an unfortunate incident.