Secret Police Campus Check?

Salient Reporter

Security police have been checking on Victoria students — and they seem to have received the traditional student "runaround."

Information believed to have been "revealed" to them bears no relation to the actual facts.

But students supposed to have been involved have clammed up when approached for details.

"I've my family and future to think of," one student told this reporter.

It is believed that Security Intelligence was particularly interested in the political affiliations of students engaged in recent protest movements, and the political composition of the outgoing executive.

Presumably it is by methods such as this that pro-government newspapers obtain the "leaked" information which enables them to make assertions like the following:

"At least 13 avowed members of the New Zealand Communist Party and people who are believed to be members of the party have been actively promoting some of the demonstrations against the government." (N.Z. Sunday Times, 6/6/65.).

Just how far Security Intelligence has penetrated the strange world of student politics may never be known. One of the persons involved has told Salient that it is his firm belief that Security Intelligence has contacts in the university.

However, he was unable to produce names or other proof of this.

Operating from offices in Hawkestone Street, the organisation is stated to have only nine full-time employees. However, just how many "stringers" and contacts it has cannot even be guessed at.

In addition, the organisation can call upon personnel from the police and the armed forces when required.

During a recent debate, a student approached Salient with the allegation that a security policeman was present.

It was not, however, possible to substantiate this claim.

What is clear is that information has been sought on student activities and probably still is.

One prominent campus conservative is supposed to have been described as "a Communist."

Any students who have been contacted by or encountered security intelligence in any way are requested to contact either of Salient's editors.