Attitude of Presbytery

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26841, 4 August 1948, Page 4

Attitude of Presbytery

Public opinion on the licensing question, with special emphasis on the corporate control aspect, is being sought by the Presbytery of Dunedin, which at its meeting last night decided to invite the public to hear a discussion on the matter next month. The convener of the Temperance Committee of the presbytery, the Rev. J. W. Olliver, said that it was expected that a licensing Bill would be introduced in Parliament as a result of the recommendations of the Royal Commission. The commission had in its findings considered that the election ballot paper should cover the liquor question by asking the voter whether he favoured continuance or prohibition, and whether he was for or against corporate control. “We feel, however, that there is a diversity of opinion on corporate control, and the presbytery could well consider seeking greater thought on the issue.” he added.

Whereas in Britain a White Paper was brought down before a Bill of national importance was put to the Legislature, no such democratic opportunity was offered the New Zealand public, said Dr J. D. Salmond, supporting the proposal.