THE PROHIBITIONISTS.

Rangitikei Advocate and Manawatu Argus, Volume XLV, Issue 12100, 8 July 1920, Page 5

THE PROHIBITIONISTS.

THE AIiLIANCE CONFERENCE

Per Press Association,

WELLINGTON, July 6. The thirty-fourth, annual meeting of the New Zealand Alliance opened to-day under the presidency of Rev. R. S. Gray. The roll call revealed a large number of members of Parliament among the delegates, and they were heartily welcomed by the President. The annual report, presented bv Rev. J. Dawson, gave a world-wide review of the remarkable advance of Prohibition duripg the past few >ears, especially paying a tribute to the United States, Iceland and I inland, where prohibition has become an accomplished fact. A world league had been established for the suppression of the liquor traffic, and the first congress will meet in Scotland in September next. In New Zealand much progress has heartened workers during the past few years, including the passing of an “anti-shouting” law and the reduction of the hours of sale between 6 p.m. and 9 a.m. •were difficulties still to be faced, the future was bright with pronuse. The Rev. W. J- Comrie introduced matters relating to amendments to the constitution of the Alliance. After discussion these were referred to the various electorates for consideration during the year.

future policy.

WELLINGTON, Last Night. An address was given by Mr Adams on “Legislation. He staged that the present demands of the party should be for a new electoral roll lor the Dominion and compulsory legisla-tion-of votes. The State Control issue must be eliminated from the ballot paper, and the two issue of Continuance and Prohibition on bare majority vote should be submitted to the people. No sound reason could be given for the retention of the State Control issue. Less than 6 per cent, of the people vo.ted in its % vo^ r the last poll, and 94 per cent, of the voters opposed it. Alterations in the present lAct were suggested. The following resolution was passed: mat if more than two issues on the licensing question are submitted to the people the issues should be decidea by preferential voting, ‘but if this be not agreed to we urge upon the Government to remove the State Control issue and that the two issues of Continuance and Prohibition should be submitted to the people at the next licensing poll.” , . „ A resolution was passed referring to breaches of the 6 o’clock closing law, and suggesting that steps be taken to secure its enforcement.