An Explanation

It has always been "Salient's" policy to foster freedom of speech to the maximum. No University publication can find excuse for existence if this essential pre-requisite is not whole-heartedly observed.

In the contemporary world clear, untrammelled thinking is frighteningly urgent—on the part of students as much as on the part of others. Academic seclusion has been the assiduous vice of the University for centuries, but today no one is exempt. So much is undeniable.

Accordingly, "Salient" has concerned itself with any problem which was considered of real and present importance to its readers. To obviate any unwarranted generalisations, all controversial articles have been signed by the person responsible for them. As such they are merely the opinion of the individual who expresses them. No system can, we think, be fairer.

Ever since its inception "Salient" has solicited contributions from students. We have stressed this untiringly—to quote the first issue of this year: "It is hoped that this year, even more than last, students will use "Salient" to say what they think. Let it be said once again that the sole qualification of any article, necessary to ensure its publication, is its readableness. Any well-expressed opinion will be printed."

In these circumstances, if anyone complains concerning the subject matter of "Salient." it can only be considered as a commentary on such a person's reluctance or inability to express his opinions coherently.

In spite of this, criticism of "Salient" has been unflaggingly sustained by certain groups of people. They have alleged all manner of failings, from "incompetence" to "deliberate suppression." Never once, let it be said, have those concerned, in spite of repeated requests, come forward to write for "Salient" or to offer concrete proposals for its improvement. Rather, they have preferred to throw stones from a distance. The matter came abruptly to a head on Monday night during the Annual General Meeting of the Students' Association, when the "Salient" staff was attacked with, if nothing else, not inconsiderable vehemence.

The opportunity for those concerned to "right the wrongs' of which they contrive to speak so uncontrollably, has been always available—to arrange to write for "Salient." This course, for some unknowable reason, they have unfailingly declined.

Tired as they are of such an unsupportable position, the editorial staff of "Salient" have decided to offer their disgruntled and vociferous critics a very obvious solution—they are to have sole control of the editing, publication and production of the next two issues of "Salient."

Here is the text of an agreement which explains itself:—

It is Hereby Agreed by and between the parties hereto:

1.	That Mr. Mitchell shall have sole control over the editing, publication, and production of the next two issues of "Salient"—namely, those issues which are to appear on July 5th and July 12th next.
2.	That Mr. Mitchell may make use of the present system of distribution.
3.	That there be no obligation on the members of "Salient's" present staff to assist Mr. Mitchell in any way.

(Signed)

J. D. Freeman

, Editor, "Salient."

W. S. Mitchell.

Witness: R. W. Edgley, Chairman.

It is to be hoped that all those who in the past have seen fit to disagree with "Salient" and its policy—and they are not unknown among us—will now see fit to justify themselves. If they do not there are several very, very obvious conclusions to be drawn.

The regular staff have now vacated their room—they are writing for "Spike."

—J.D.F.