1920 Scottish licensing referendum

1920 Scottish Licensing Referendum

The 1920 Scottish Licensing Referendum was a significant event in the history of Scotland, as it marked a turning point in the regulation of alcohol sales and licensing laws in the country. This article provides a detailed overview of the referendum, its background, and its implications.

Background

Prior to the 1920 referendum, Scotland had a long history of strict licensing laws, which regulated the sale and consumption of alcohol. These laws were primarily aimed at reducing alcohol-related social issues and maintaining public order. However, they were also seen by some as overly restrictive and inhibiting personal freedoms.

The temperance movement, which advocated for the reduction or elimination of alcohol consumption, gained significant traction in Scotland during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. This movement argued that alcohol was the root cause of many societal problems and called for stricter licensing laws.

The Referendum

The 1920 Scottish Licensing Referendum was held on October 28, 1920. The referendum asked voters a simple question: "Should the sale of alcoholic beverages be prohibited in Scotland?" Voters were given the option to vote either "Yes" or "No" to this question.

The referendum saw a high turnout, with over 70% of eligible voters participating. The results were closely contested, with the "No" campaign narrowly winning by a margin of 52% to 48%. This meant that the sale of alcoholic beverages would not be prohibited in Scotland.

Implications

The outcome of the 1920 Scottish Licensing Referendum had significant implications for the licensing laws in Scotland. While the "No" vote meant that alcohol sales would continue, it also led to a reevaluation of the existing licensing system.

Following the referendum, the Scottish government introduced several reforms to address the concerns raised by both the temperance movement and those in favor of more liberal licensing laws. These reforms aimed to strike a balance between regulating alcohol sales and ensuring public safety, while also allowing for personal freedoms and responsible consumption.

Legacy

The 1920 Scottish Licensing Referendum marked a turning point in the history of alcohol regulation in Scotland. It highlighted the importance of public opinion in shaping licensing laws and demonstrated the need for a balanced approach to alcohol control.

The referendum also paved the way for further reforms in the years that followed. Subsequent changes to licensing laws in Scotland aimed to address the concerns raised by both sides of the debate, leading to a more nuanced and flexible approach to alcohol regulation.

See also

• Temperance movement in Scotland
• Alcohol licensing laws in Scotland