13 JANUARY 1917, Page 2

Our policy is not a teetotal policy but'a tear policy.

During peace we are perfectly content that men shall satisfy their desire for intoxicants in moderation. In such a war as this we cannot afford tO let them do so. But, argue some of our most esteemed correspondents, why do you complicate the matter by advocating State Purchase ? Would it not be a- better plan, and one which would prove a, far better policy, for the State simply to cut off all supplies from the brewers and distillers ? "Tell them that they shall not use an ounce of foodstuffs yin future, and that they must make the best they cap • of this prohibition on manufacture." No doubt that is et- policy which if it could be carried out would have the desired result.• But our critios forget that it would be impossible to carry it out.