MR De VALERA

Otago Daily Times, Issue 26783, 28 May 1948, Page 6

MR De VALERA

Sir,—l think “ Loyalty ” wants to ust a little common sense when he writes that Mr Fraser has no backbone. I think “ Loyalty ” is the person with no backbone. If he is such a brave fellow al writing such piffle, why not be plucky enough to sign his own name? There is far too much of this nonsense nowadays, and I think the editors receiving all such letters should throw them in the waste basket.—l am, .etc., R. Hall.

Sir, —It was with amusement that we read the remarks of “ Loyal Ulsterwoman ” regarding the visit of Mr De Valera as the guest of the New Zealand Government. We at first dismissed this letter as a very poor attempt at humour in not very good taste. However, it appears that some people have taken “ Loyal Ulsterwoman ” seriously, and we think the letter now calls for some comment. Apparently these people are not aware that Mr De Valera, ex-Premier of Eire, is one of the world’s statesmen, and as such is entitled to every courtesy when visiting this country. “ Loyal Ulsterwoman’s ” remarks about German submarines refuelling on the Irish coast during the war are ridiculous and not substantiated by fact. , :

The statement that Mr De Valera’s attitude to Britain during the war was traitorous suggests a lack of consideration of the facts. As an independent sovereign State owing allegience to no Power. Eire was under no obligation to enter the war on either side. However, as has been pointed out by other correspondents, this did not prevent 200.000 Irishmen from volunteering for active service with thg Allies'. Nor did it prevent Eire from supplying Britain with vitallyneeded foodstuffs. Other' people have opposed Britain at times and later adopted a friendly attitude—for example. Field-marshal Smuts. This, however, does not prevent them from doing their duty to the best advantage of their own country. We, too, are loyal British subjects, but that does not blind our sense of courtesy to friendly visitors. We would point out to “ Loyal Ulsterwoman ” that he r attitude is doing nothing to further the present friendly relations existing between Eire and New Zealand.—l am. etc.. O’Donnell Aboo!