Roy Thomson Reviews Russian Visit

Press, Volume CII, Issue 30055, 13 February 1963, Page 8

Roy Thomson Reviews Russian Visit

(N.Z.P.A.-Reuter—Copyright)

LONDON, Feb. 11. The Canadian newspaper millionaire, Mr Roy Thomson, flew into London today from Moscow and said: “I think we now know each other better.” Mr Thomson, who owns 100 newspapers throughout the world as well as radio and television interests, took 170 top British businessmen with him to Russia for two days. The trip was to mark the first birthday of the colour section of bis British national Sunday newspaper. the “Sunday Times.” In Moscow, the businessmen investigated tirade prospects, attended receptions and saw the sights. Mr Thomson himself had a twohour meeting with Mr Khrushchev. The party travelled in a giant TUI 14 aircraft provided by the Russians—the biggest airliner ever to land at London Airport. At an airport press conference Mr Thomson spoke of East-West relations. “We must come closer together—‘the present intolerable situation cannot go on,” he said. “They said this had been a new experience for them—they were used to dealing on a cold basis from Government to Government. “Now they have seen top-

level tycoons. ... I think they came to the conclusion we are not so bad when they see us personally. "We all went over on a blanket visa, something that has never been done before. One member of our party had no passport but they admitted him wiith a piece of paper and just my signature on it—a wonderful sign of the softening of relations between us. “It was.” Mr Thomson added, “a degree of warmth I never expected—everyone has got a great kick out of it.” The carpet magnate. Mr Cyril Lord, who was on the trip, told reporters there were greait possibilities of selling his carpets to the Russians. “They are most anxious,” he said. "They came to see me off and I am going to submit samples.” Mr Lord, a millionaire, said a man in the street had offered him 50 roubles, about £2O, for his suit.

Police For Royal Tour.—A convoy of 20 cars consisting of four police cars and 16 Public Service vehicles left Christchurch yesterday morning with 45 policemen for Royal tour duty at Nelson. Chief Inspector A. C. J. Rush said that an adequate police staff remained in Christchurch.