Seamen’s Action Not Supported

Press, Volume CVIII, Issue 31841, 20 November 1968, Page 1

Seamen’s Action Not Supported

(Neu: Zealand Press Association)

WELLINGTON, November 19. There was nothing in Labour Party policy which would oblige anyone supporting that policy not to service thb U.S.S. America, the Leader of the Opposition (Mr Kirk) said today.

I Mr Kirk said it was regrettable that the ambiguity in [some newspapers was capable i of conveying the opposite impression. The Seamen’s Union last ’[week placed a ban on mem--[bers servicing the aircraft I! carrier in protest against ■ American and New Zealand I participation in the Vietnam ■ war On Friday, the Minister of ■ Marine (Mr Scott) said in t; Parliament in reply to a question that he was not in a '[position to confinn or deny that the Seamen’s Union [policy was that of the Fede[ration of Labour or of the ii Labour Party. | Mr Kirk said today: “The I Labour Party’s policy in re‘spect to Vietnam relates entirely and specifically to New (Zealand’s involvement in that I unhappy situation. "For some time this policy! ! has been clear and welldefined. It is simply the replacement of our military (forces with constructive aid. “Such a step is in complete ; accord with the Labour [ Party’s expressed view that [the solution to the problem ! lies in de-escalation and a negotiated peace,” he said. Mr Kirk said the party welcomed the moves that had been made in this direction, [and added that the presence

jof the America in Welling ; ton Harbour was a reminder [of the extent to which United [States involvement in Viet inam had been reduced re ; cently.