C.A.R.E. wants race talks

Press, Volume CXII, Issue 33094, 8 December 1972, Page 17

C.A.R.E. wants race talks

GV.Z. Press Association) WELLINGTON, Dec. 6. The Citizens’ Association for Racial Equality has asked the Prime Minister-elect (Mr Kirk) to receive a deputation representing anti-apartheid groups and churches to discuss racism issues. In a letter to Mr Kirk, the honorary secretary of C.A.R.E. (Mr T. O. Newnham) said he hoped that the new Labour Government’s election victory would pave the way for a considerable improvement in race relations in New Zealand and in this country’s policies toward racial problems abroad.

Mr Newnham said action must be taken to prevent the apartheid system of South Africa extending to New Zealand. “New Zealand can no longer remain on the sideline. To refuse to intervene would in effect leave it to the South African Government to dictate the terms of sporting contacts with New Zealand and, in the case of the proposed Rugby tour, introduce apartheid into New Zealand. “We urge you to tell Mr Vorster at the earliest opportunity that a Springbok team selected from whites only will not be welcome in New Zealand and would, as you have already announced, receive no official welcome or other form of recognition.”