Hong Kong Refugees

Press, Volume CI, Issue 29850, 16 June 1962, Page 3

Hong Kong Refugees

Sir, —I was amazed at “ExLondoner's" decrying Hong Kong refugees coming into New Zealand because they may be “running away from a hard day's work." Surely abandoned babies, whether European or Asian, are entitled to “run away" from hunger and lack of love to a country where there is an abundance of food and, no doubt, quite a lot of surplus love. It would be interesting to know just what “ExLondoner” ran to New Zealand for. Perhaps it was a better position (maybe a good day’s work), and all the amenities provided, such as houses, hospitals, and a healthy upbringing for children; and who can blame him? I am not such a smug Kiwi as to think New Zealand is perfect. It certainly isn't, but surely when we have so much we should be thankful to God for the opportunity to share it.—Yours, etc.. L. TABB. June 15. 1962.

Sir,—lt saddens and angers me to think that any Englishman could pen such words as those of “Ex-Lon-doner.” I, too, am an exLondoner who lived for 10 years in Hong Kong, and I know your correspondent's remarks to be quite untrue Those whom he condemns are seeking in an uncharitable world for their Godgiven right to work and eat. Starved and homeless, given the chance they will work till they drop. I suggest that “Ex-Londoner" have a good look at himself, if he is capable of so doing. Perhaps he will then discover the “mote in his own eye." If not. then may God pity him.—Yours, etc, ALBERT F. GILLETT. June 15. 1962.

Sir. —In reply to “Ex-Lon-doner,” we have given Englishmen and foreigners homes and a better opportunity in work in our country. Why, then, can we not give these honest and hardworking souls, who are only running away for freedom from starvation, a home? These things should be left for the Kiwis to decide, not to “Ex-Londoner,” who in my opinion should go home and give decent people a chance. —Yours, etc, JENNY KIWI. June 15. 1962.