South Africa

Press, 14 January 1986, Page 20

South Africa

Sir, — Bert Walker’s oftrepeated suggestion that people go to South Africa to “see for themselves” (January 8) is unrealistic. It is easier to learn about that country from outside, as many such as Bridget Farrell and numerous South Africans, acknowledge. With television and radio controlled by the State, and newspapers aware that they may be manipulated out of existence, it is all too easy for whites to remain ignorant of what is happening in the townships and the police stations. If Mr Walker truly treasures Western democracy and the Christian religion he should study the history of the Nationalist Government, especially the manoeuvrings which disenfranchised the Coloured people of Cape Province during the 19505. He could begin with David Harrison’s “The

White Tribe of Africa.” Then he might learn how much both democracy and Christianity have been perverted by the Government he supports. — Yours, etc., PATRICIA SMART. January 11, 1986.