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Salient. The Newspaper of Victoria University College. Vol. 20, No. 2. March 29, 1956
To the Editor
To the Editor
Salient Policy
Dear Sir,
A meeting of the VUC Socialist Club held in Wednesday March 21. recommended its executive to raise a point of disagreement with the recently published "apolitical" policy of Salient.
Two sections of the last issue of Salient led us to believe that political discussion and letters to the editor on political subjects were to be excluded.
| (a) | This policy is contrary to the traditions of our college. |
| (b) | Fire discussion on all controversial subjects should not only be permitted but encouraged as the life-blood of university education. |
| (c) | The separation of "student affairs" and "politics" can be a contradiction in terms. There is such a thing as student politics! And "student news" surely must include "student views." |
| (d) | As individuals on the rolls of this College and as members of a club affiliated to the Students' Association, we dispute your right to prohibit us from contributing to Salient on any subject of interest to us and our fellow students. |
| (e) | We condemn any editorial policy which infringes upon the rights of any individual or group who wish to express their opinions in Salient. |
| (f) | We look with suspicion at this apolitical approach which entails the deliberate exclusion of discussion on a subject of general interest and concern. We find ourselves in disagreement with a policy that entails a one-sided and "one-eyed coverage." |
| (g) | Finally, we would suggest that you will find it impossible to exclude all politics from your columns. No politics means status quo politics. If this is what you desire please be a little more explicit. |
I am, etc.,
A. C. Walsh,Chairman, VUCSC
Dear Sir,
A student newspaper should concern itself with all affairs of relevance to the student body.
Your amazing editorial policy would muzzle students on such political issues as the shocking salaries of University teachers, such general issues as the present campaign against capital punishment, and such international issues as the position of Cyprus—a more remote topic, but probably the most important because Cyprus is the key point in the Middle East—vital for its oil—and very important to us as Suez is still our main means of transporting goods from New Zealand to Europe.
Congratulations. Sir, on the improved appearance of "Salient" but if you intend to exclude politics, international commentaries and general articles, why not change the name to "Caf Chat"? Or else give us a real "news" paper which is a vehicle of student opinion on All important issues of today.
I am, etc.,
College Mascot
Dear Sir,
I have noticed that Victoria College does not possess any mascot after the manner of the overseas universities. Would it not be possible that some object be selected, preferably hardwiring; a visible and tangible sign of the college loyalty on such notable occasions as tournament, freshers' welcome and capping? It would certainly do something to lift college life from the doldrums it appears to be in.
I am, etc.,
Collegian.