Labour Urges Civilian Basis

Press, Volume CV, Issue 30983, 12 February 1966, Page 1

Labour Urges Civilian Basis

(New Zealand Press Association)

WELLINGTON, Feb. 11. The Labour Party today called on the Government to offer support and practical assistance for improving the social and economic development of South Vietnam.

It said such support and assistance should not cost less than New Zealand’s military aid. The Leader of the Opposition (Mr Kirk) said, “We reaffirm that New Zealand’s efforts should be concentrated on reconstruction even before the cessation of hostilities.

“In these circumstances the New Zealand troops now committed could be limited to a defensive role of protecting the work of medical, technical and educational groups,” he said. “Labour bases these beliefs on the knowledge that the stability of any regime depends on the support of the people it claims to rule —and the certainty that past policies have already led towards extended conflict rather than to purposeful negotiations around the conference table.” He said the Labour Party welcomed the statement after the recent conference between President Johnson and Air Marshal) Ky that greater emphasis must be given to

ways and means of improving the economic and social conditions of the Vietnamese people.

“Labour has always advocated such a policy as the best form of intervention in South Vietnam —and is prepared to give all possible help,” said Mr Kirk. Mr Kirk said that on numerous occasions the Labour Party had made it clear that it believed a new and stable society would emerge if the people’s living conditions were improved. “At this time—when the Vice-President of the United States may come to New Zea-land—-it is appropriate that New Zealand should be prepared to back any move made to place increased emphasis on social and economic development,” said Mr Kirk.