Nuclear submarine visit

Press, 26 January 1979, Page 12

Nuclear submarine visit

Sir, — I agree with Father Consedine. that many Christians do seem to be unconcerned or indifferent to submitting to something as evil as nuclear powered submarines being welcomed in one of New Zealand’s harbours. — Yours, etc., A. MORRISON. | January’ 24, 1979.

Sir, — Does L. F. J. Ross (January .25) really' believe that the Soviet Union would respect a nuclear-free Solith Pacific? The Soviets have shown a marked reluctance over the years to respect anything other than a furtherance of their own objectives, often at the expense of those affected by their actions. For Mr Ross to* suggest that once the United States has achieved first strike capabilities the temptation to use it will increase is irrelevant. Both the United States and the Soviet Union have the ability to totally destroy' each other even if the other fires first, and giving both powers credit for some common sense, they would not, f suspect, feel that self destruction was a worthy cause in the pursuit of their respective aims. — Yours, etc., STEVE PADDOCK. January 25, 1979;