Letters To The Editor (Press, 4 July 1979)

On 4 July 1979, several letters were published in "The Press" addressing various contemporary issues, showcasing the thoughts and opinions of the public. A significant focus was on the contentious topic of water fluoridation in Christchurch. A correspondent named A. H. Bennett expressed concerns over fluoride's alleged health effects, arguing that promoting healthier dietary habits would be a more responsible approach than fluoridation. Mark D. Sadler congratulated the council subcommittee for rejecting the fluoridation proposal, suggesting that alternative measures, such as fluoridised salt, are worthy of consideration. In contrast, L. A. Glass reported on a U.S. court case which ultimately supported the continuation of fluoridation, citing that claims linking it to cancer were not substantiated. The annual Telethon event also drew letters, with R. V. Shaw praising the initiative for fostering community spirit, contrasting with Adam Burchall who critiqued it as a superficial approach to charity, suggesting more direct methods of helping those in need. Discussions surrounding the effectiveness of superannuation policies were highlighted by T. E. Turner, who accused the government of breaking election promises regarding superannuation calculations. This sparked further commentary about workers' rights and industrial disputes, with D. J. Chapman lamenting the influence of unions on industry and transport. On the matter of homosexuality in the armed forces, Paul Maling questioned the motives behind new regulations for discharging suspected homosexuals, arguing the existence of homosexuals within the military has always been a reality. Jim Upston voiced discontent with the budgetary decisions impacting the arable farming sector, highlighting rising costs without adequate public benefits in return. Similarly, criticism arose regarding the role of public servants in a letter by John Bateman, who argued for the need for greater private enterprise involvement in the economy. Environmental concerns also featured, particularly about air pollution, with Patrick Neary emphasising the potential dangers overshadowing economic issues. A call for humane alternatives to gin traps in animal trapping practices came from E. Dunlop, highlighting shifting attitudes towards animal rights. Overall, the letters illustrated diverse public sentiment on pressing social, political, and environmental topics in New Zealand during that period.

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