U.N.E.S.C.O. delegates’ interviews
Sir, — In your report. of an interview with Dr A. Ratebzad, Afghan delegate to the U.N.E.S.C.O. conference, there is a disturbing statement by the Minister of For-
eign Affairs that the New Zealand Government was justifiably concerned that some delegates might speak publicly on controversial political issues not connected with the conference but it was considered, could politicise the conference and hinder its constructive work. What rubbish. Why is the Ministry of Foreign Affairs “justifiably concerned”? What is wrong with public debate between politicians? How would this politicise the conference and hinder its work? It seems to me that the Government’s policy on this and previous occasions when visiting foreigners holding “controversial” political opinions have been dissuaded or prevented from speaking publicly when in New Zealand is based on fear of offending powerful and influential allies. How craven can we get? — Yours, etc., R. J. MARTIN, Lower Hutt. July 10, 1980.
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Press, 14 July 1980, Page 16
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154U.N.E.S.C.O. delegates’ interviews Press, 14 July 1980, Page 16
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