N.Z. Publicity Service On Ship Criticised

Gisborne Herald, Volume LXXV, Issue 22818, 13 December 1948, Page 4

N.Z. Publicity Service On Ship Criticised

(P A.) WELLINGTON, Dec. 13. Criticism of the New Zealand information service aboard the Akaroa in which he returned to Wellington from Southampton after six weeks overseas was made by Mr. P. G. Connolly, M.P. In a written statement which he handed to reporters, Mr. Connolly said the only New Zealand news issued on the ship’s daily news sheet was one about the difficulty of getting the right type of settlers for New Zealand made in a statement by a New Zealand official in London. Half the 194 passengers were new settlers, and many others were returning New Zealanders, said Mr. Connolly. , ... , In the cinema shows, which were- of considerable vintage, there was a need for New Zealand documentary films. Quiz sessions on New Zealand, however, showed that most of the new settlers had a good knowledge of New Zealand, . All the ship’s news was received from twice daily broadcasts from Britain. said an official of the Shaw, Savill and Albion Company when the criticism was referred to him. _ This service was received by all ships at sea and was a precis of the news of world interest. The company subscribed to this service and would be glad to do the same for a New Zealand service, but' was not aware of a suitable New Zealand news service. Documentary films of New Zealand were sought by the shipping company, which considered its duty was to do its best to inform new settlers of New Zealand conditions. Such films were not always readily available and it was possible that none was sent to the Akaroa for that reason.