Defence policy row deepens

Press, 14 February 1986, Page 5

Defence policy row deepens

PA Auckland The New Zealand Party defence policy row has deepened with the formation of a special committee in Auckland. The committee, formed at this week’s Auckland divisional meeting after criticism of the policy by the former party vicepresident, Mr Earle Thompson, will study the non-alignment, limited defence policy and make recommendations to the Auckland divisional conference in July. Monday’s meeting featured an extensive debate on Mr Thompson’s criticism of the defence policy, and the need for review. It was attended by the party’s president, Mr Graham Wiggins. Mr Thompson told the “Auckland Star” he was surprised when the North Shore electorate, which recently organised a

meeting to discuss support for his stance, moved for the formation of a special committee. “It (the committee) is a further interesting development,” he said. “Obviously there are many more people within the party who are uncomfortable about its defence policy.” The meeting also accepted the resignation of the Auckland divisional chairman, Mr Noel McGuire, who relinquished his post to establish an air courier service. Mr McGuire played a key role in the party’s recovery after the departure of the former leader, Mr Bob Jones. Mr McGuire had indicated a willingness to return to politics once his business was established. The deputy divisional chairman, Mr Roger Henry, has stepped in until the conference in June.