Far more has been accomplished for the welfare and progress of mankind by preventing bad actions than by doing good ones.
I really believe my greatest service is in the many unwise steps I prevent.
As to the advantages of temperance in the training of the armed forces and of its benefits to the members of the forces themselves, there can be no doubt in the world.
If I am outspoken of the dangers of intemperance to members of our armed forces, it is because we are all especially concerned for the welfare of those who are risking their lives in the cause of freedom.
Where there is little or no public opinion, there is likely to be bad government, which sooner or later becomes autocratic government.
Government, in the last analysis, is organized opinion. Where there is little or no public opinion, there is likely to be bad government.
On behalf of the federal government, I wish now publicly to appeal to the provinces to lend their co-operation in furthering our country's war effort by effecting at as early a date as may be possible this much needed restriction.
For one cause or another, it has become necessary to impose restrictions upon the use of many commodities, including not a few of the necessities of life.
Conscription if necessary, but not necessarily conscription.
Until the control of the issue of currency and credit is restored to government and recognized as its most conspicuous and sacred responsibility, all talks of the sovereignty of Parliament and of democracy is idle and futile.
The anxiety of most parents in seeing their sons and daughters enlist does not lie only in the fear of the physical dangers they may encounter.
Since the outbreak of war, there has been in our country a steady increase in the consumption of spirits, wine and beer. It is estimated that in dollar volume, the annual outlay is now practically double what it was before the war.
Every hour of useful work is precious.
The greatly increased consumption of alcoholic beverages is very largely a direct result of the increased purchasing power created by wartime expenditures.
When gasoline and rubber are rationed, electric power and transport facilities are becoming increasingly scarce, and manpower shortages are developing, it is difficult for people to understand their increased use for other than the most vital needs of war.
Self-denial and self-discipline, however, will be recognized as the outstanding qualities of a good soldier.
Let it be remembered, too, that at a time of war, nearly every one is under great strain.
I would not wish to imply that most industrial accidents are due to intemperance. But, certainly, temperance has never failed to reduce their number.
In the twelve months immediately preceding the outbreak; of war, the quantity of spirits, both domestic and imported released for sale in Canada, amounted to over three and a half million proof gallons.
There can be little doubt that absence from work, and inefficient work, are frequently due to intemperance.
