Telecom

Press, 19 December 1988, Page 20

Telecom

Sir,—The article today, “Businesses to pay for each local call,” does not explain that Telecom has decided to include charitable trusts, non-profit agencies and educational organisations under its "business” category. As well as this being unjust, it may jeopardise the confidentiality of people making distress calls to telephone counselling agencies. Other businesses recognise a responsibility to the community and to assisting “helping” agencies in their work, and Telecom should do the same. The business rating for nonprofit, charitable and educational subscribers should be removed immediately.—Yours, etc., DENISE ANKER. December 12, 1988. Sir,—Stephen Taberner (December 15) raises the question of whether Telecom would be willing to have a survey of the people to ascertain if they are happy with the new system of charges. Does it really matter?

In the present climate surveys mean nothing and are just subordinate to the magical word “profit,” and as much as the market can bear. When you have a Government that governs by example, “profit before people” is the order of the day. The nation’s wealth has been transferred into the hands of the few, and the hucksters and carpetbaggers have taken over. The real wealth of this country — top tradesmen, and professional people — are flocking across the Tasman in droves. The working class no longer exists, as such, and those remaining are fighting a rearguard action right now. Automation, and the lean, mean machine have taken over. However, the “Thought Police,” and a nightly dose of capsules will ensure everyone of a good night’s rest.—Yours, etc.,

A. MacKENZIE December 14,' 1988.