P.M. extends sympathy

Press, 30 January 1986, Page 4

P.M. extends sympathy

PA Welllington The Prime Minister, Mr Lange, has sent a message of sympathy to President Reagan after the space shuttle tragedy.

New Zealanders saluted the courage of members of the American space programme, who faced danger in their work in space, and mourned those who had lost their lives, Mr Lange said.

“All New Zealanders join me in sending our condolences to the bereaved,” he said. The Minister of Science and Technology, Mr Tizard, has also sent a telegram to N.A.S.A. at Cape Canaveral.

“We wish to extend our sympathy to the relatives of all those directly connected with the expedition, to the members of the space agency we express our sadness at this blow to the progress of

your work,” the telegram said.

“This serves to emphasise that the development of space exploration is still fraught with danger. It underlines the importance for the future that every scientific and engineering effort be continued to minimise the dangers that so obviously still exist.” The American Embassy, in Wellington, received many messages of condolence from New Zealanders. The Embassy, said: “We know that the people of New Zealand have shared the many great moments of the American space programme with our people. “Now, we thank you for your heartfelt sharing with us of this sad moment. You may be certain that your expressions will be conveyed to America.”