Security bill

Press, 5 October 1977, Page 12

Security bill

Sir, — As the ordinary citizen becomes more aware of the meaning of this amendment bill before our Parliament, it is clear the normal procedure is needed to enable people to understand its effects. Far too sweeping to be hurried as Mr Muldoon has decided, it now rests with the people to be firm; for truly, “The price of liberty is eternal vigilance.” — Yours, etc., N. BECK. October 4, 1977. Sir, — The screamers for civil liberties cannot see the wood for the trees. The prime consideration must be “for the greater good of the community’s welfare.” It may be argued that secrecy is a potential threat to democratic principle with no place in society, but New Zealand is part of a world of nations embroiled in various forms of subversive activity — we are aware of machinations of communists, fascists, and even anarchists. The weapons of secrecy which are constantly and universally used may be directed against New Zealand’s interests at any time. How better can we preserve our secret commitments without endangering constitutional law and the freedom of the innocent than by entrusting the ultimate power of decision to the Prime Minister? Action would be directed towards definite suspects. Guiltless people have nothing to fear unless they happen to become victims of a bomb outrage or something similar. — Yours, etc., F. W. HARDING. October 3, 1977.