16 MAY 1914, Page 2

Mr. G. H. Roberts, the Labour Member for Norwich, opposed

the measure as "unwarrantably interfering with the just liberties of a great class of deserving citizens," maintain- ing that the real impulse behind the Bill was prohibition. Sir Thomas Whittaker, who supported the Bill, admitted that there ought to be legislation with regard to clubs, but argued that their influence for evil was exaggerated. Mr. Ellis Griffith gave the measure Ministerial benediction. After further speeches, the Bill was rejected by 198 to 176, or a majority of 22. We venture to predict that, if the Home Rule Bill passes and remains unrepealed, the Irish contingent will prove very useful to the liquor interest.