Continuing Protest

Press, Volume CV, Issue 31001, 5 March 1966, Page 1

Continuing Protest

<N.Z. Press Association) WELLINGTON March 4. The . Government intended to continue protesting against the French nuclear tests in the Pacific, the Prime Minister, (Mr Holyoake) said tonight. The Prime Minister was questioned about the reported French threat to New Zealand. “It’s the first I’ve heard of it,” he said. Such a hint, if made, would have been reported by New Zealand officials in Paris and he would have seen the report, Mr Holyoake said. Asked if he specifically denied that the report was true, Mr Holyoake replied: “Have

you given up beating your wife?” “We have continued to protest and will continue to protest about the tests,” Mr Holyoake said. “I've seen no evidence of any change in our friendly relations,” he said. “What more can I say?” Mr Holyoake was asked if he expected a change as the situation drew to a climax. “I see no evidence,” he said. “But it seems logical for

the French Government to retaliate?” asked a reporter. “I’ve seen no sign of it,” replied the Prime Minister. Mr Holyoake said that talks were continuing between New Zealand 'nd French officials on arrangements for the tests. The last communication had been received two days ago. He declined to comment on the essence of the talks. He said he did not know when the French expected to explode the first nuclear bomb.