RECOGNITION OF RUSSIA.

Evening Star, Issue 24285, 28 August 1942, Page 6

RECOGNITION OF RUSSIA.

TO THE EDITOR. Sir, —I have been instructed by ray esecufcive to direct attention to the complete lack of any recognition shown to our ally, Russia, by the theatres in Dunedin. When Prance was our ally the ‘ Marsellaise ’ was played as a matter of course, but since the U.S.S.R. has been fighting by our aide not once has the ‘ International ’ (Russia’s national anthem) been played. Indeed the only occasion I know of its public presentation in Dunedin were at the two public meetings at the Town Hall, which were organised by our society. It is amazing to reflect when, in England, the Government is even arranging a special course for British teachers about the U.S.S.R., that we in New Zealand are so tardy in our recognition. Also in the Soviet Union they are issuing a special edition of a paper compiled in England, setting out the magnificent war effort of the English people. The Soviet Union has not been slow to organise recognition of our nation in all sorts of ways—trade union conferences, cultural activities, etc. It is only common courtesy that we should make similar recognition. I trust (hat this correspondence will stimulate action, so that even if the theatres cannot, immediately procure the ‘ International ’ they will be able to show the flag of the U.S.S.R. on the screen, prior to the films starting. It is time we put aside old prejudices and marched forward in a common unity of effort.—l am, etc., B. K. Berg (Hon. Sec., Dunedin Branch N.Z. Society Closer Relations With Russia). August 27. UNIVERSAL HEALTH SERVICE. TO THE EDITOR Sir, —I wonder what Dr Newlauds and the B.M.A. have to say about your cable from England, published in last night’s stop press, that the British Government is proposing to introduce a universal health service, available to all irrespective of income. It is interesting to recall how Dr McMillan has, over the past decade, been abused, attacked, and misrepresented for his consistent advocacy of such a service. —I am, etc., Ahead of the Times. August 27.