N.Z. HOUSE IN LONDON

Press, Volume XCVII, Issue 28553, 5 April 1958, Page 4

N.Z. HOUSE IN LONDON

Reaffirmation Of Criticism “I nowhere suggested there was a limitless obligation on a tax* payer’s House to provide tickets 'for the fortunate minority which travels,” said Mr Gerald Lascelles replying to a ' correspondent tc “The Press,” “London-New Zealander (RJM.C.).” “New Zealand House has assumed certain functions which it should discharge efficiently.* A wide opinion is held that it does not do this. Indeed, a numbei of persons have contended thal the criticism of the House has been understated,” said Mr Lascelles in his reply. Mr Lascelles said that recently an experienced business man had claimed that the trade services were unmentionable. “The poor standard of service at New Zealand House was often a subject of conversation among New Zealanders in Britain. Some preferred their mail sent through the trading banks because of delays in the House mail services. A more common complaint was about the spirit and quality of the service given. The attitude of positive enterprising helpfulness so evident elsewhere is vices were unmentionable, seemed anxious to asaist visitort; our Hoiise seemed content merely to respond to lt was the contrast between a lively enthusiasm and an easy-igoing complacency,” said Mr Lascelles. “R.M.C’s point that the office is paid for by New Zealand taxpayers does not excuse its unsatisfactory service to the travellers he sniffs at. Moreover these travellers pay taxes and are often, by reason of experiences abroad, better judges of services given “It is unpleasant to feel bound to criticise New Zealand House, but when complaints are so often heard and seem justified, a little public ventilation may help things along,” Mr Lascelles said.