R.S.A. policy on subversion

Press, 18 June 1979, Page 16

R.S.A. policy on subversion

Sir, — Although every former corporal fancies himself a master strategist who could have won the Second World War in half the time it actually took, one cannot help but be amused at the ludicrous presumption of the R.S.A.’s self-appointed “defence committee." It seems they hold solemn meetings to discuss political and military matters and decide what must be done about them. They then offer this unwanted advice to the Government for action. Who do these people think they are? Judging by their remarks about “defending New Zealand” (against 1.C.8.M.5?) they are a group of reactionary militarists who have not had a new idea since 1945. Like the proverbial brass hats of the War Office, they arc always preparing to fight the last war. — Yours, etc., lAN HOOD, Blenheim. June 14, 1979.

Sir, — A remit passed at the annual meeting of the R.S.A. Dominion council called on the R.S.A. “to devote more of its efforts to opposing subversive elements.” But hounding dissidents is the role of the Security Intelligence Service. For a body such as the R.S.A. to identify its interests with those of the S.I.S. makes nonsense of claims that its members went to war to defend “freedom.” — Yours, etc.,

G. DAVIDSON. June 15, 1979.