Law and order

Press, 24 October 1984, Page 16

Law and order

Sir, — I am not the F. Lean whose letter was printed in “The Press” on October 19, although I broadly support the views it expressed. But while the impact of rugby contacts with South Africa upon law and order in New Zealand is a legitimate cause of concern, it is vital that this should not be allowed to overshadow the real issues. Do New Zealanders care whether they are perceived as indifferent to the rights of black South Africans? To forgo a rugby tour is such a small sacrifice when measured against the massive denial of human rights in South Africa. — Yours, etc., F. M. LEAN. October 19, 1984.

Sir, — I am concerned particularly with the evil of apartheid and those who seek to nurture it, but, as my letter got,under the “law and order” heading, I point out that supporters of South African brutality want police action here directed against any peaceful protest which hurts the feelings of rugby fanatics. My warning against the typical arguments supporting rugby tours to comfort political despots in South Africa, is justified by your generous space for the Rev. Don Corban’s attack on the National Council of Churches. After extolling the nonpolitical aims of Jesus Christ, he claims much of the pathetic scene in black African' countries arises from “inept government, bungling, corruption and wars fought over non-issues.” It is hypocrisy for one who eschews politics to condemn black Africa, France, Libya, Russia, etc., and yet want South African “Christians” to “sort out their own problems.” — Yours, etc., VARIAN J. WILSON. October 22, 1984.

Sir, — In replying to my letter, L. R. Wilkinson has been presumptuous in writing of my “obvious bias against South Africa.” I am totally for the people of South Africa whatever their race, as I am for the people of any country, including our own. It is for this very reason that I say to Mr Wilkinson that the end can never justify the means when suffering is involved. And when the sacrificing of a mere rugby tour could avoid violence and disruption, is that too much to ask? — Yours, etc., F. LEAN (Mrs). October 22, 1984.