PREMIER’S APOLOGY TO CRICKETERS

Press, Volume CII, Issue 30289, 15 November 1963, Page 15

PREMIER’S APOLOGY TO CRICKETERS

(N.Z. Press Association-Copyright)

MELBOURNE, Nov. 14. The Premier of Victoria, Mr Henry Bolte, apologised to the South African cricket team tonight for an anti-apart-held demonstration by Melbourne University students today. Mr Bolte's apology was given at a civic reception tonight. . Welcoming the Springboks, Mr Bolte said: “If you have had any unpleasantness here today, 1 would like to offer my apologies. “These are the actions of a few juvenile and immature people. “I assure you of a cordial welcome from 99 per cent of the Victorian people.” The South African team manager, Mr K. G. Viljoen, replied smilingly: “The warmth of your reception has offset any coldness we may have met outside in the weather or otherMr Viljoen reminded those at the reception that Melbourne was the scene of South Africa’s two test match victories on the last tour, in 1952-53.

Mr Viljoen said: “We, as you know, are not in the Commonwealth now: ‘that is a constitutional arrangement.' “We, as cricketers, have not changed, and we want to continue playing cricket against Australia as long as we can.” When the Springboks reached Melbourne from Adelaide today, about 100 students, members of the National Union of Australian Universities, were wanned by police and airport officials that they must not go on to the airport apron. The South Africans were taken by coach from the airport. The coach was driven out to the plane. However, a number of students appeared outside the motel soon after the players arrived there. The students carried placards reading: “Apartheid Is Not Cricket,” and “Hit Verwoerd For Six." One placard read: “Don’t Blame The Cricketers: Apartheid’s Guilty.” Police in cars watched the students, who dispersed after 20 minutes. The South Africans will play in a match against an Australian eleven tomorrow.