New Hebrides troubles

Press, 7 June 1980, Page 14

New Hebrides troubles

Sir, — I read with some surprise the editorial, “New Hebrides rebellion” (June 2). You indicate that “the French administration in the New Hebrides can be e--pected to take some delight from an incident (Stevens rebellion) which could well delay independence or even lead to fragmentation of the new State before it appears.” I am a little bit upset by such an assessment which does not correspond to the true French position. For months past the French and British Governments have been in close and permanent contact with regard to the Nev> Hebrides. As recently as June 2 they reaffirmed their common desire to lead the condominium to .independence in peace and unity. They have constantly and publicly stressed its firm opposition to any attempt at secession. In order to solve the present difficulties, the French are of the opinion that it is necessary to encourage the resumption of the dialogue between the New Hebridean parties concerned. I upderstand that the British Government shares this point of view. — Yj . , etc. JEAN GUEURY, Ambassador for France, Wellington. June 5, 1980.