HOTEL LICENSES.

Gisborne Times, Volume XXVII, Issue 2524, 10 June 1909, Page 3

HOTEL LICENSES.

TEN O’CLOCK CLOSING INTRODUCED AT LYTTELTON.

[Pick Press Association.]

CHRISTCHURCH, Juno 9. At tli© annual meeting of the Lyttelton Licensing Committee, the police, reported a marked increase in drunkenness during the past six months. They were not /prepared to state that any particular bouse, was responsible, but the increase was so marked that it was quite evident that licensees were not so particular as they should be, or had been, in conducting their houses. The Chairman (Mr. H. W. Bishop. SAL), on behalf of the committee, remarked that it was a curious fact that the increase had taken place during the period which fitted in with the time of taking the local option pod. lie urged licensees to put their houses in 'order, and instruct their employees pot to supply liquor to those unfit to receive it. Mr. Holian, who appeared lor the trade, said that licensees regretted very much that, there had been an increase of drunkenness, but during the last few months there, had been a great increase of shipping, which had contributed to the state of affairs mentioned. The licensees had discussed the matter at several meetings, and had decided not to apply for an extension of the closing hour from 10 to 11 p.m., and this should he put to their credit. Mr. Bishop said lie was always prepared to give credit to any decent licensee trying to better the condition of things.