Old statement

This statement said that Security Intelligence "has no interest in student politics or in campus activities, nor do 'security policemen.' 'stringers,' or 'contacts' snoop round student forums or debates." (Salient, July 18, 1965).

Continuing its comments, Security Intelligence says:

"The Security Service does not have 'security agents' established at universities in New Zealand to study university activities nor has the Service any interest in everyday campus activities.

"There has been no inquiry made at a university or 'investigation' at a university that could be interpreted as a 'threat to academic freedom.'

"No reports have been solicited or made on statements made by staff or students at lectures, seminars, tutorials or student forums.

"Nevertheless, the Service must retain its right, as in the past, to instruct its staff to make inquiries at a university it there is reason to believe that a matter is of security interest.

"It has a duty to follow Communist and Communist front activities and the possibility of espionage wherever these may occur.