Against Bigger Force

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31249, 22 December 1966, Page 3

Against Bigger Force

(N.Z. Press Association) HAMILTON, Dec. 21. The Leader of the Opposition (Mr Kirk) today criticised suggestions of increasing New Zealand’s military commitment in Vietnam.

“It is utterly inconsistent to entertain the idea of escalating participation in Vietnam at a time when the Secretary-General of the United Nations _ has _ been given a free hand in trying to negotiate a cease-fire,” he said. Mr Kirk was commenting on the possibly that the Ist

Battalion now in Malaysia could be sent to Vietnam next year after a review of the deployment of the Commonwealth Strategic Reserve. Last night, the Prime Minister (Mr Holyoake) said naval assistance could also be given to South Vietnam. “Deployment of our battalion in Vietnam could become part of that review, but it is all very indeterminate at this stage,” Mr Holyoake said. “No consideration has been given to a naval commitment, but I would not rule out the possibility that an element of the Navy might be assigned to Vietnam.” Mr Kirk said this had always been a possibility.

He said Mr Holyoake had claimed he had not been asked to send more troops. “I don’t want to say anything on this,” said Mr Kirk. “One would hope that the spirit that gave rise to the truce over Christmas could be extended to include even a more meaningful cessation of hostilities.

“It seems utterly inconsistent to talk hopefully on one hand with the United Nations reaching a cease-fire in an atmosphere of good will, while on the other evasively treating a firm suggestion of escalation.

“New Zealand would be better served by supporting the Secretary-General of the United Nations in his difficult task.”