UN INTERVENTIONS

New Zealand Listener, Volume 36, Issue 923, 18 April 1957, Page 11

UN INTERVENTIONS

Sir,-While finding much of truth and interest in J. Malton Murray’s letter, I found also that two of the realities which he offers are far too partisan to be acceptable. To the Russians, Western military might is undoubtedly a fearsome obstacle to universal disarmament, We must not forget Russia suffered aggression by Western Powers in 1941, 1915, 1812, 1709 and 1610. The ravages of the most recent invasion will most certainly be a bitter memory, and it is too much to ask that Russia drop her guns first. There is no proof that the Communists are opposed ‘to universal disarmament, but the hostile attitudes of both camps make any agreement difficult. It is still undecided whether or not the combined resources of the Western countries could remove the "obstacle" of Russian military power, without being obliterated themselves in the process. Almost certainly, the result would not be written by human hand. If the United Nations is to be a world power, it must be given executive powers. All countries must be represented, and they must accept its decrees. If force is to be the final arbiter; then a majority decision in UN must decide when, and against whom, to wield force. If delegates are human in their weaknesses, we must be patient and ensure that our own country is represented by the best men available, men who are not restricted by national or Commonwealth interests. If they fail to support a just intervention against aggressors, friend or enemy, then we should not criticise United Nations justice. We cannot expect the United Nations to be any better than its delegates. But we must support it wholeheartedly, and assist its evolution though certain of our partisan interests are sacrificed. Now, more than ever, it is one world or none.

N. M.

ROE

(Tauranga).