Support for boycott

Press, 9 January 1986, Page 15

Support for boycott

White and black South Africans opposed to apartheid and the brutal repression it involves favour a sports and economic boycott of the country, according to a former Christchurch woman, Mrs Bridget Farrell.

During a year’s close involvement with people opposed to apartheid and blacks repressed by the system she made a point of asking a wide range of people what role New Zealand could play in the struggle. There was complete agreement, she says, on the urgent need for a total sports and economic boycott, supported by the Government.

“This would both weaken the South African Government and encourage opponents of apartheid.” Concern was expressed at the level of white South African immigration into New Zealand, she adds, as this acts as a channel for pro-

apartheid propaganda. She also sees needs for practical help for groups working against the apartheid system, especially in community education, medical, and legal support Direct help to families of detainees (often the breadwinner is detained, leaving the family destitute) or even simply supportive personal contact, are other possibilities.

It is seen as important for New Zealand organisations and the Government here to object continually to the detentions, brutality, and repression in South Africa, Mrs Farrell says.