S.E.A.T.O. ‘No Paper Tiger’

Press, Volume CVI, Issue 31108, 11 July 1966, Page 1

S.E.A.T.O. ‘No Paper Tiger’

(New Zealand Press Association) AUCKLAND, July 10. Far from being a “paper tiger” the South-East Asia Treaty Organisation was a strong military unit capable of mobilisation at very short notice, the SecretaryGeneral, Lieutenant-General Jesus Vargas, said in Auckland today.

General Vargas, who has arrived for a week’s visit after the S.E.A.T.O. conference in Canberra, said “by calling it a paper tiger the Communists are only recognising its strength. Wait until the tiger comes out of its cage.”

“We could fully mobilise if not in 24 hours then certainly in 48." As a balance to its military strength S.E.A.T.O. was planning a vigorous civil programme to counter subversion in the area, he said. “We have got to realise that the Communists are actively engaged in poisoning the minds of the masses against governments by encouraging rebellions, strikes and insurgency and promises of a better life. “What we have to do is to see to it that by a strong programme of civil aid we make the people contented enough not to want communism."

tive steps to combat covert subversion at which the communists are experts.” General Vargas said there was no fear of China starting a war. “They are only bluffing,” he said. “If China started a war she would be crushed in 24 hours and she knows it. And besides her economy is very unstable.” General Vargas was met at the airport by the Minister of Education (Mr Kinsella). He will inspect the Devonport Naval Base tomorrow morning before leaving for Rotorua. After visiting Wairakei and Kawerau on Tuesday he will call at the Waiouru Military Camp on his way to Wellington. He will meet the Primei Minister (Mr Holyoake), i Cabinet Ministers and service ■ chiefs in Wellington on | Thursday. i His other engagements in-|

General Vargas said it was lamentable that the public was not fully informed of the organisation's strength.

“This is because military people have learned to be very careful what they say.” he said. “But believe me, after a year in office I know how strong it is. We have some powerful nations as members.

General Vargas said this programme was outlined in

recommendations he made to the recent conference. “We have given enough emphasis in the past to the military side,” he said. “We must now take effec-

"Our military headquarters in Bangkok is fully operational all the time, formulating policy.

{elude visits to the R.N.Z.A.F. {station at Wigram and to Lin[coln College.