Party rebuke on defence policy

Press, 10 January 1986, Page 22

Party rebuke on defence policy

PA Auckland The prominent New Zealand Party member, Mr Earle Thompson, has drawn a sharp rebuke from his electorate committee for his criticism of the party’s defence policy. The committee wants to meet Mr Thompson this week to discuss his stance, and his future as candidate for Rodney. Mr Thompson—a founding member and former vice-president of the jarty—yesterday attacked he defence policy, and declared an intention to denounce it at the next election.

The deputy committee chairman, Mr Kevin Chappell, has said the electorate could not support Mr Thompson, and his views were regarded as entirely personal.

Mr Chappell said candidates were entitled to their personal opinions, but in public they were expected to toe the party line. The committee’s exact plan of action was uncertain, but it was unlikely it would call for Mr Thompson’s resignation. “Obviously, we have to look at the situation,” said Mr Chappell. “We will probably have discussions with Earle this week to find out exactly where we stand.” Mr Thompson did not consult the committee before making public statements about his objections the defence policy. He had, however, canvassed his views with its members.

The Albany meat wholesaler earlier told the Auckland Star he was prepared to put his candidacy on the line if the committee found his stance objectionable.