RUSSIA A DRY NATION.

Sun (Christchurch), Volume I, Issue 253, 28 November 1914, Page 8

RUSSIA A DRY NATION.

To the. Editor of THE SUN: Sir,—The annourieement in the cable, news pi; our Wear p ; apers with regard to the absolute prohibition of the isalc.of liquor in seems to be only a'p&'rt of "the pronqun'eement of the Russianauthorities.' The general impression is that the prohibition of the liquor trailo is only applicable dming the war, whereas the full text of the pronouncement reads: "The Russian Government will" never again embark in the manufacture and sale of alcoholic drinks." ; This/ statement, confirming previous reports, has been made in the name of Emperor Nicholas himself. In reply to the Russian Union of Abstinance, his Majesty' stated: »"I thank you; I long ago decided to interdict for all time in Russia, the sale of alcoholic drinks by the Government." The" 'declaration lias 'been hailed with pleasure and satisfaction :by the entire Russian ,Press. As -a, r«s»4t..of the suppression of the liquor traile, the Novoe Vrenya eities have increased their savings bank deposits during" September *of- this year -by > the -sum of £Xi,spo,oop' over the . amount for the same month of Jast year, despite the war. Trusting you will find space i-sor tjh'e. above information in your vaiua(3>le..; paper,-4-I am, etc., •.....■ , ■ R.'.M V SPEDSS.