S. I. movement resignations

Press, 7 June 1980, Page 6

S. I. movement resignations

PA Dunedin Three members of the Dunedin branch committee of the South Island Movement have resigned because they do not believe the movement’s leaning towards federalism provides the answer to the South Island’s problems. Mr A. S. Race, chairman of the Dunedin branch committee, Mr A. C. L. Georgeson, deputy chairman, and Mr W. A. Lake, sub-committee co-ordina-tor, said in a joint resignation statement that they could no longer wrestle with their consciences about the present .direction of the South island Movement. “It is tragic that the movement is being directed towards federalism by certain key members, to coincide with their personal views, to the detriment of other stated consid-

erations and options* they said. They felt that the Christchurch committee was “fully committed to the concept of State government within a federal New' Zealand.” Mr Race said they were moderates, wanting “ the movement to keep its options open, including the possibility of seeing if the necessary changes could be made within the existing system. A spokesman for the Dunedin branch and Otago regional delegate to the movement’s council. Mr G. Morton, said ' he was "amazed” by the resignations. “The view of the Christchurch branch was fully discussed at a committee meeting on Wednesday evening and it was unanimously decided to oppose its view and to keep all options open,” Mr Morton said.