The opinion piece by Bruce Clark (Eliminate MLCC? I'll drink to that! Free Press, Sept. 21) illustrates a naivety perpetuated by the uninformed with regard to liquor retailing in this province. The truth is that after 84 years, the MLCC continues to offer Manitobans exceptional value for their money.

Here are the facts: Manitoba's beverage alcohol prices are mid-range in comparison with other Canadian liquor jurisdictions, and we enjoy the lowest beer prices in the country. As to our operational efficiencies, the MLCC remains one of the most efficient liquor jurisdictions in the country. In fiscal 2006, the MLCC's general and administrative expenses as a percentage of sales was 10.3 per cent -- the lowest in Canada.

Reduced alcohol prices may appeal to Manitoba's wholesale shopping reputation, but, the bigger question is: If prices were reduced, where would the shortfall in revenue come from? For instance the amount of revenue raised by the MLCC is approximately the equivalent to 10 per cent of total personal income tax collected. Without the MLCC, the money has to come from somewhere or someone.