Nuclear weapons

Press, 2 August 1983, Page 18

Nuclear weapons

Sir,— You have recently published certain letters decrying the possible passage or deployment of nuclear weaponry within New Zealand; the argument being that such occurrences increase the chances of our becoming a prime nuclear

target during World War 111. The Peace Brethren also believe, as I do, that there is little likelihood of any limited nuclear warfare; rather that when the assorted White House and Kremlin ruffians finally succumb to their collective insecurities, the deleterious consequences of Armageddon will certainly impinge upon Godzone, nuclear-free zones and Ann Hercus notwithstanding. Personally, I would far prefer the instant death attendant upon a 20-megaton detonation above Cathedral Square to the lingering, but equally certain, demise resulting from nuclear pyrotechnics beyond our Exclusive Economic Zone. Thus, I contend that we should positively encourage our American allies to situate their odious cruise missiles within Christchurch. After all, Hagley Park is surely nicer than Greenham Common.—Yours, etc., ANDREW DEANS. July 30, 1983.

Sir,—Mr J. H. Gray, in responding to a letter by D. R. Morgan (July 30) cited the Civil Aviation Regulations, 1953, as providing the authorisation for use of Christchurch Airport by American military aircraft. But the regulations state plainly, “Nothing in these regulations shall apply to military aircraft.” The regulations (No. 31) contain provisions for the “Carriage of dangerous goods,” none of which

can apply to military aircraft. Residents of Christchurch should also be aware that the Military Airlift Command which operates the Starlifter flights is not covered by the U.S.-N.Z. Deepfreeze agreement. So who controls the Starlifters and their secret cargoes? The American military, not New Zealand. The City Council is concerned about possible violations of the Nuclear WeaponFree Zone. I join Mr Morgan in urging a prompt city investigation of the military use of our airport.— Yours, etc., ROBERT L. LEONARD. July 31, 1983.

Sir, — I wish to enlighten Marilyn Waring and others who cannot decide whether the U.S.S. Texas will be carrying nuclear weapons during its visit to New Zealand. The Texas is a modernguided missile cruiser, and is designed to carry a complement of tactical nuclear weapons. It is also a significant and essential part of the American naval forces. Whatever time the Americans permit themselves between a call to war and taking part in it (20 minutes is a likely figure), it is certainly not sufficient time to re-arm a warship. The inescapable conclusion is that the U.S.S. Texas is, without doubt, carrying nuclear weapons at all times. — Yours, etc., M. L. MONSON. July 27, 1983.