P.m. Offers Nuclear-ship Briefing (Press, 10 August 1987)

On 10 August 1987, the nuclear ships debate in New Zealand intensified as Secretary of Foreign Affairs, Mr Merwyn Norrish, became involved in discussions regarding a past meeting between Prime Minister Mr Lange and United States Secretary of State Mr Shultz. During a televised debate, Mr Lange offered to brief National Party leader Mr Bolger on the details of the talks held in Manila in July 1987, which focused on the implications of New Zealand's nuclear-free stance. A viewer raised concerns about assurances against the entry of nuclear weapons in New Zealand, leading Mr Bolger to state that such trust would rely on the country's allies adhering to its anti-nuclear policy. Mr Lange, however, emphasized that a neither-confirm-nor-deny policy could not effectively keep nuclear arms out of New Zealand, reiterating that Mr Shultz had indicated that nuclear-armed vessels could visit under this understanding. The Prime Minister used a card metaphor to illustrate his point, claiming, “When the cards are dealt, there will be a nuclear one somewhere in the pack.” The United States State Department responded cautiously, stating that their view of the meeting differed somewhat from Mr Lange's account, reiterating their global stance of not confirming or denying the presence of nuclear weapons. The televised debate included discussions on various topics besides nuclear issues, such as abortion and homosexual law reform. Mr Lange reiterated that examining the abortion law was not a government priority, despite commitments to review it, while Mr Bolger lamented the number of annual abortions and called for stricter laws. On the topic of homosexuality, Mr Bolger expressed opposition to recriminalising sodomy and suggested that the age of consent should be higher. Mr Lange defended existing legislation, asserting it had improved the lives of homosexuals and countering concerns about abuse. Both main parties denied plans to introduce new taxes or change current mortgage interest rates. Mr Lange expressed support for modified proportional representation, whereas Mr Bolger defended the existing electoral system for its stability. Mr Morrison of the Democrat Party advocated for proportional representation, countering criticism of its instability by comparing Italy's current wealth to that of Britain. When discussing superannuation, Mr Lange expressed frustration at its political manipulation and hoped for bipartisan agreement through the social policy Royal Commission. Additional viewer questions covered various topics, including the election campaign, unemployment pledges, capital punishment, and economic issues. In closing statements, Mr Lange praised his government's economic management and warned against undermining three years of effort, while Mr Bolger highlighted the hardships experienced under Labour and pledged to tackle systemic issues in education and poverty. Mr Morrison concluded that the public was tired of the political squabbling and urged a harmonious approach to address the nation’s challenges.

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