HAD M Clarke's hypothesis any substance (You Say, June 22) the ending of Prohibition in the US might have opened the floodgates to mass public experimentation with alcohol. Yet his letter perceives this was not the case.

Removal of restrictions put an end to the easy profits of illicit suppliers and with it came the end of their inducements.

M Clarke brings no evidence to support his suggestion of excessive alcoholic consumption in pre-prohibition America. It was a predominantly Puritanical society with very strong prejudice against alcohol.

Restrictions on personal liberty which cannot be adequately enforced merely brings the lawmakers into disrepute.

JOHN HINTON,

Worcester.