VIETNAM ACTION

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31097, 28 June 1966, Page 1

VIETNAM ACTION

New Group Formed A Vietnam Action Committee was formed “by unanimous decision” at a public meeting in Christchurch last evening. It has a membership of four, one the chairman. The function of the committee will be to hold regular public meetings for supporters to study in detail all proposals submitted to it by the Joint Council on Vietnam for public action, and not to carry out any public action without approval of the Joint Council. The latter rule caused considerable comment. Some of those present felt that the public would be unable to differentiate between the Joint Council on Vietnam and the Vietnam Action Committee. To others it might even be considered as a possible split in the antiVietnam War movement.

What was being sought was “an agreeable autonomy,” said one speaker. “The committee is either a part of the joint council or it is not.” The committee will help to organise the circulation of pamphlets, protest meetings ar.d marches and provide publicity on its affairs. Mr T. Dolbey was appointed chairman. He will also be the committee’s representative on the Joint Council. The other three members are Messrs B. R. Curry, R. Lane and Miss B. Shalders. The committee will coordinate and establish other specialised committees within the action group. Mr D. M. Kane, of the Trades Council, was chairman of the meeting attended by about 25 persons.