"Louts And Hoodlums Should Be Sat Upon" (Press, 24 November 1969)

On 21 November 1969, during an election address in Nelson, R. A. McLennan, the National Party candidate, expressed his dismay at the behaviour of some young people, whom he described as "louts" and "hoodlums." He condemned their rowdy conduct and perceived negative impact on the image of youth in general, advocating for strong measures to curb this youthful delinquency. McLennan underlined the National Party's commitment to tackling what he viewed as a troubling trend in society. Reflecting on the government's accomplishments while in office, McLennan stated that his candidacy had led him to a deeper understanding of National Party policies, which bolstered his confidence in its leadership as it navigates what he anticipates to be a challenging decade. He praised the expertise of the Prime Minister, Keith Holyoake, and other party leaders like Robert Muldoon and John Marshall, noting that their governance had effectively steered the country through a potentially severe recession with minimal disruption. McLennan urged the public to remain steadfast in supporting the party and not to risk the country's economic future by turning away from successful policies. He addressed criticisms of the Prime Minister's public persona, asserting that despite appearances, Holyoake was a capable leader at the helm of a skilled team. Additionally, he highlighted the establishment of the National Development Council, countering Labour Party criticisms by accusing them of attempting to co-opt the council's recommendations for their own political gain. He asserted that the council's insights were fundamentally linked to National Party initiatives, rejecting Labour's claims as nonsensical. In discussing the National Cabinet, McLennan praised its members for their vast experience and expertise in their respective fields. He specifically mentioned the Minister of Defence, Mr Thomson, as a valuable example of the competent leadership within the ranks. He conveyed the party's strength in attracting talented individuals, claiming that this was one of its primary assets. Moreover, he stated that National's readiness to make tough decisions, even if unpopular, was a crucial factor in fostering public trust in the government's capability to confront future challenges.

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