Political appointments

Press, Volume CXV, Issue 34021, 9 December 1975, Page 20

Political appointments

Sir, —Surely, sir, in your editorial in “The Press” today you are confusing members of the Citizens for Rowling campaign with members or supporters of the Labour Party. For the last few weeks the Citizens for Rowling spokesmen have been denying any connection with the Labour Party. In fact, it was implied in their statements that they were not necessarily opposed to the National Party, as such, but to its leader. Mr Muldoon.—Yours, etc., BE FAIR. December 5, 1975.

Sir,—lt can be agreed that political appointments on the American pattern are to be deplored, but unfortunately this has apparently operated

under the outgoing Labour, Government. There has been, as far as I am aware, no denial that when Mr Douglas reshaped the radio and television services he introduced to key positions men known to be keen Labour supporters. This showed in the heavy support accorded to Labour by both those media, which National had to suffer without redress, until now. The blame should not be placed on Mr Muldoon, who did not start this business of political appointments. It is common practice in all countries. — Yours, etc., R. V. SHAW. December 5, 1975.