Earlier, bar licences were given out to members of parliament and recently the government took a decision to prohibit this practice. Infact, we must appreciate the government for taking such a decision. Because, when the members of parliament were dealing with the subject - liquor bars were spread to each and every corner of the island.

As a result, in the past few years, the drinking habit has increased among youths. I think this led to increased violence in the country to a certain extent. Actually, members of parliament should set an example to society. I can remember that during the time of Mr. Dinesh Gunawardane as MP for Maharagama, he did not issue bar licences and late minister Gamini Jayasooriya also followed same practice in the Homagama electorate.

Another very important decision taken by the government is not to have liquor shops close to the temples and I think so far none has complied with this rule. If the government can enforce these rules, almost all Sri Lankans will be appreciative of its good work.

M. G. Asoka Karunaratne
Pannipitiya