PROTEST PETITION ON U.N. AID CANCELLATION

Press, Volume CVIII, Issue 31755, 12 August 1968, Page 1

PROTEST PETITION ON U.N. AID CANCELLATION

(New Zealand Press Association)

WELLINGTON, August 11. A petition is to be drawn up protesting against the Government’s cancellation of aid to United Nations refugee projects.

It is being organised by the chairman of the New Zealand Refugee Homes Board (the Rev. Dr lan Fraser).

Dr Fraser today termed “shameful” the cancellation of contributions to the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees and the United Nations Relief and Works Agency assisting the Palestinian refugees. Dr Fraser said New Zealand’s contribution had until two years ago been $140,000 a year. Last year it was $BO,OOO.

He told parishioners at St Stephen’s Church that the Prime Minister’s explanation that the cut was made for economic reasons had a hollow ring when the defence vote was increased by sBm this year. “This is simply a further step towards selfish isolationism,” Dr Fraser said.

“Two years ago the Government cancelled its contribution to the inter-govern-mental Committee on European Migration, and the Refugee Travel Fund. Before that it withdrew the Cyprus police contingent—not because its task was completed, but for economy.

“It is our international responsibility to take our full share in contributing aid. “I call on all seriousminded citizens to insist that

our Government take its pro responsibility under H J the United Nations charter," Dr Fraser said.