‘Drug problem minimal’

Press, Volume CX, Issue 32461, 23 November 1970, Page 1

‘Drug problem minimal’

(By

C. R. MENTIPLAY)

WELLINGTON, November 22. A drug problem exists aboard the big United States aircraft-carrier Shangri-La, but it is minimal and firmly under control, according to doctors and deck officers. Some prominence was given in Sydney newspapers during the vessel’s stay there to the fact that one rating was serving a three-day sentence for drug abuse when the vessel reached that port. The ship’s commanding oifi-

cer (Captain Hoyt P. Maulden), was quoted as saying that there had been no more than six cases involving drugs in the course of the present eight-month cruise—and that three of the men concerned had been returned to the United States. Deck officers are unhappy that even this was said. "In a community of mote than 3000 people, in which by far the majority are in the experimental age, it is hardly surprising that half a dozen drug cases have come to light,” said Lieutenant R. Jernstead. "Considering how easily drugs may be obtained in South-East Asia, it is surprising there are not more ex-

nerimenters. But the ship has an operative drug-aware-ness programme,” he said. More concern has been shown about the half-dozen men who missed the ship in Sydney. It is recognised that a man near the end of his time, and subjected to Australian and New Zealand hospitality, might be sorely tempted to jump ship. Officers are pointing out to shore parties that this is no solution, and that it is better to complete commitments and then return. No trouble is expected in New Zealand. They say: "Shang is a happy ship—and this is one time we are sure of being home for Christmas."