Call For Concern About Pollution

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 32265, 7 April 1970, Page 26

Call For Concern About Pollution

(New Zealand Press Associations WELLINGTON, April 6. Local pollution and fall-out from French nuclear tests in the South Pacific should concern New Zealanders tomorrow. World Health Day, Dr L. R. Bedggood, president of the United Nations Association of New Zealand, said in a statement released yesterday.

“Local aspects of pollution include smoke and dirt poured into the air, wastes discharged into our rivers, laker and harbours, litter in public places and the growing cacophony of sounds assailing our ears,” Dr Bedggood said. “The United Nations, in co-operation with the World Health Organisation and other U.N. agencies, is sponsoring a series of conferences and studies to help •olve these problems.

“U Thant has stated that this is one of the main problems to be faced within the next 10 years. Otherwise it eould become insoluble and disastrous to human life on this planet

“France has been conducting H-bomb tests for several years in atolls near Tahiti, and plans to renew them later this year,” Dr Bedggood said.

No harmful short-term effects from radiation had been officially reported yet but the New Zealand Health Department had said three years ago that continued tests would increase the risk in some islands, be said. “New Zealand is most concerned about long-term effects of fall-ont on its farm produce. The Pacific Islanders are fearful for their fish, coconut and other foods. “The direct effect of fallout on the people themselves also calls for expert study," he said. “Our association has therefore urged that the

W.H.O. and the International Atomic Energy Agency investigate radiation levels in areas near the French tests, and that their findings be published.” Dr Bedggood said preventive health measures were also a world and New Zealand necessity and responsibility.