DISCORD OVER PLANS

Press, Volume XCVII, Issue 28480, 9 January 1958, Page 8

DISCORD OVER PLANS

“Tactless Release In N.Z.”

(N.Z. Press Association—Copyright) (Rec. 8 p.m’) LONDON, Jan. 8. A little discretion could have prevented the discord between Sir Edmund Hillary and Dr. Fuchs, said the “Daily Telegraph” diarist today. It was apparent that Sir Edmund Hillary did not intend that his cable to London, containing the advice Dr. Fuchs had rejected, should be published.

“It would not have been disclosed here had it not been rather tactlessly released in New Zealand on Monday,” the diarist said. “Sir Edmund Hillary obviously expected that his cable would persuade London to modify its instructions to Dr. Fuchs. But it is Sir Edmund Hillary who is now being asked to toe the line,” the diarist said.

The “Daily Herald” published the views of “experts with Antarctic experience” and friends of the two figures in the Polar controversy. People who knew both leaders commented on their similarities in character, the newspaper said. Both were quiet, resolute, and level-headed, disliking fuss. Both must be squirming with embarrassment over the publicity their clash had brought.

The question was asked, said the “Daily Herald.” whether Hillary, now that he had made his dash for the Pole, was bored because his interest in the expedition had ended.

But a friend of Sir Edmund Hillary’s had laughed at the suggestion. “If he promised to meet Dr. Fuchs at Depot 700, he’ll be there,” he had said.