Mr Jones Is Not Impressed (Press, 3 June 1980)
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Summary: Mr Jones Is Not Impressed (Press, 3 June 1980)
On 3 June 1980, a controversy arose within the New Zealand National Party involving Mr Dail Jones, the Helensville Member of Parliament, and the magazine "Penthouse." Mr Jones, known for his vocal opposition to the magazine, expressed his disdain for it by declaring that he would promptly discard any subscription given to him. In a light-hearted response, a group of young National Party members decided to gift him an annual subscription, claiming it would allow him to “maintain his intimate and continuing scrutiny” of the publication. Mr Jones reacted to the gesture by stating that the magazine did not merit his attention and reaffirmed his stance against it, suggesting the young members were squandering their financial resources. He further proposed that their funds would be better allocated to assist those suffering from poverty in Asia. The situation escalated following remarks made by another National MP, Miss Marilyn Waring, during a speech to the Young Nationals on Saturday. In her address, Miss Waring highlighted the contrast between the frivolous fixation some New Zealanders had on the centrefold of "Penthouse" and the dire circumstances faced by people in impoverished countries, which she noted were focused on basic survival and needs. Her comments were seen as a subtle critique of Mr Jones's attempts to have the magazine banned, prompting Mr Jones to express his dissatisfaction regarding her statements. This incident reflects the ongoing cultural debates within New Zealand at the time, particularly around issues of media consumption, morality, and the priorities of society in addressing global poverty.
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