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Salient. An Organ of Student Opinion at Victoria College, Wellington, N.Z. Vol. 1, No. 6 April 13, 1938

Concerning Ourselves

Concerning Ourselves.

"If the National Party gets into power, what will be its attitude to the University?"

"Why? Well. I suppose you know the Universities grew up under us—we made them what they are to-day. The Universities will still be there, won't they? and under us—the National Party is friendly towards them."

"Well then, does the National Party contemplate any reforms to the University system?"

"Why what do you mean by reforms? Isn't the system all right us it is? I was at Otago for several years and the system seemed good. I suppose it hasn't changed—anyway, what's wrong with it?"

"Well said "Salient." aghast, "the lecture system isn't too bright—It seems a cram establishment to me."

"Oh no, I think it's alright; you get your exams, and things. New Zealand degrees are favorably comparable with those of any other Universities. Mining degrees of Otago are the best in the world."

"Tell us do you consider a University education beneficial, and If so will your party facilitate in any way the obtaining by poorer people of a University education?"

"Well, that has always been possible—the University has always been available to all classes."

"But poorer people need helping."

"Yes, so, but there are scholarships to he won. The Universities are democratic, there is no distinction, and the present scholarship system has enabled enough to get there. Not all the students come from wealthy classes. Er—certainly I think a University education is beneficial to all who can use It properly."

"What is the attitude of the National Party to freedom of speech in its widest sense, e.g., advocacy of communism, lectures, and discussions in the University?"

"We stand for free speech, traditional British custom of free speech. But you've nothing to complain of?"

"Well, we have certain subjects not approved of by the Professorial Board—sex and religion."

"Well that's the Professorial Board's business. British speech is the freest in the world—Hyde Park." said Mr. Hamilton ruminatively. "Of course you can't say what you like—Just enough freedom to discuss public questions. I could say what I liked about you—It would be free speech, but it might be libel. Here, don't go putting that last sentence down—people will think I'm—I was Just showing you what I meant!"