THE PRESS AND PROHIBITION.

White Ribbon, Volume 30, Issue 352, 18 November 1924, Page 14

THE PRESS AND PROHIBITION.

Extract from “Manchester Guard* ian,” March 24th, H>24. The American Ambassador, who was the the chief guest at the dinner of the London Press Club on Saturday said: “In foreign relations lam convinced that the Press has a greater influence even than in domestic, civic, and economic questions. To illustrate what I mean, one reading the Press would think the entire United States is wet, and that more liquor is now consumed than before Prohibition. The Press, very naturally before Prohibition did not publish the conditions brought about by the saloon, while, since Prohibition, most naturally, every violation of the law through rum-running makes sensational news. As a matter of fact the country is generally dry, and violations of the law by people are generally the exception. Nor do I believe it is generally understood that very much of the country had gone for Prohibition or local option before we adopted the constitutional Amendment.

“While in no way criticising the publication of such news, I wish to emphasise the fact that there is a responsibility resting upon the Press, which has such tremendous influence for good or evil.”