Local Option

Local Option, the power of regulating the liquor traffic with which the "Temperance" party desire to invest the inhabitants of each locality. It is usually proposed that the continuance or abolition of the traffic should be decided by a two-thirds majority of the ratepayers. The "Permissive Bill," embodying this proposal, was first introduced into Parliament in 1864; but the Liquor Traffic (Local Control) Bill, 1893, was the first instance of its inclusion in the Ministerial programme.