NO POSITION FOR HILLARY

Press, Volume C, Issue 29516, 18 May 1961, Page 17

NO POSITION FOR HILLARY

Mr Holyoake’s Denial

(N.Z. Press Association)

WELLINGTON, May 17. A London newspaper suggestion that Sir Edmund Hillary was being induced to accent a high diplomatic post in London or India when his climbing days were over was denied by the Prime Minister (Mr Holyoake) today.

“There is no foundation whatsoever in this rumour,” Mr Holyoake said. “There have been no approaches to Sir Edmund Hillary by me whatsoever.” Mr Holyoake said he welcomed all advice and help on such matters, but there his knowledge completely ended. The “Daily Express” reported today from Katmandu that Sir Edmund Hillary was expected to take up a diplomatic post with the New Zealand Government "as soon as he can be convinced that his mountaineering days are over.” "A High Office" For some time, the New Zealand Prime Minister had been trying to tempt Sir Edmund Hillary with a high office in London or India, the newspaper said. He was expected to choose India —so that he could be near the Himalayas. Yesterday, an assault group of Sir Edmund Hillary's Himalayan expedition set out on the last stage of its attempt to climb 27,790 ft Mount Makalu.

Sir Edmund Hillary, convalescing at 14.000 ft after suffering a mild stroke, was reported to be directing operations by radio.