Hyde Park ‘soapbox’ For P.m. (Press, 11 June 1986)
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Summary: Hyde Park ‘soapbox’ For P.m. (Press, 11 June 1986)
On 11 June 1986, New Zealand Prime Minister David Lange took an impromptu opportunity to connect with the public while visiting London. During a stroll in Hyde Park, Lange was encouraged by his long-time friend, Methodist minister Lord Soper, to speak at the iconic Speakers' Corner, a platform for public discourse that Soper had used for over three decades. Lange climbed onto an aluminium ladder to address a gathering crowd, a scenario reminiscent of the political activism of the 1930s. In his address, Lange discussed various topics pertinent to New Zealand, including immigration policies, homosexual law reform, and the country’s stance on nuclear issues. Speaking later to journalists, he expressed his enjoyment of the experience and noted that he received a positive response from those present at the gathering. However, the Prime Minister soon decided to conclude his speech upon recognising a man with a camera, presuming he was from the media. Lange's engagement at Speakers' Corner highlighted his willingness to interact directly with citizens and address pressing issues facing New Zealand during that time.
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