Omega Base Opposed By Methodist Synod

Press, Volume CVIII, Issue 31765, 23 August 1968, Page 14

Omega Base Opposed By Methodist Synod

The Government should not enter into any agreement to assist in a nuclear attack, said the Rev. J. G. Langley, at the annual synod of the North Canterbury district of the Methodist Church yesterday.

“We are concerned that Omega while being a valuable navigational aid, could also be used for aiding nuclear weapons," said Mr Langley. ‘The resolution seeks an assurance that the Government has not and will not commit New Zealand to giving practical help to any other nation in the launching of nuclear weapons or with any assistance that would help a nuclear strike force.” A resolution to this effect wu passed by the synod. Maori Mission

The Maori Mission wu concerned that 85.5 per cent of Maori youth left school without any recognised educational qualification, uld a report to the synod. The mission was using its resources to encourage more of its young people to take advantage of educational op-

portunities in the schools and the trades that might be available.

Arrangements were being made to celebrate the centenary of the Rapaki Church, Lyttelton, in May next year, it was reported. Other motions passed were:—

“The synod considers that the welfare of the nation will not be better served by the licensing of private commercial radio and television stations, especially if commercial interests are allowed to determine the nature of programme material. This would tend to make broadcasting subservient to private profit rather than public interest. ‘The synod considers that the advantages of forming a religious department of the N.Z.B.C. outweighs any possible disadvantage, and urges the conference to press for its establishment.”