‘Political Blackmail’

Press, Volume CIX, Issue 32304, 23 May 1970, Page 11

‘Political Blackmail’

(N.Z.P.A.-Reuter—Copyright) JOHANNESBURG, May 22.

A leading South African cricket official has accused the British Government of political blackmail in trying to stop the Springbok cricketers’ tour qf England.

Mr Arthur Coy, the senior member of the South African Cricket Board of Control, said that the British Government’s latest move was “unbelievable.” “This appears to be what might be called political blackmail,” he said. “I hope the English Cricket Council will have the strength and wisdom to refuse this latest request from a Government which shows such weakness.

“Its latest move admits its inability to contain threats of violence by minority groups and to protect guests invited to the United Kingdom.

“The request made by the Home Secretary to the Cricket Council has obviously been made to place responsibility on the council for riots and disturbances by minority groups which the Government cannot, or does not, wish to control.” The South African wicketkeeper, Denis Lindsay, speaking at a cocktail party in Johannesburg said that the Springboks knew what was in store, but felt that the difficulties could be conquered. Lindsay added that if the British Government allowed the South African team into the country, Ali Bacher’s name would become synonymous with that of the conqueror of Everest, Sir Edmund Hillary.