To The Editor

Dear Sir,—With reference to the letter to you in your issue of April 2nd concerning the Freshers' Welcome, I am willing to be one of the panel of three unbiased judges of the matters at issue. Whether I am "learned", or not is a point upon which my natural reticence demurs Putting levity on one side. I do think that this is a matter which should be investigated. in many organisations it is an exhortation to those in charge of the initiation or inaugural function that "first impressions are the most durable." and I think that this applies equally cogently to any similar function at V.U.C.

Unfortunately we live in an age where it is considered clever to mock at religion or its devotees, and to hall as a sign of intelligent development, reference to that which is risque or appertaining to sex or its perversion. History proves that universal indulgence in this, followed by the appropriate physical action, has led to the decline of Empires. Yet, on the other hand, one must be open-minded, not a bigot or an enthusiast but definitely not a "smut-devotee." But the very nature of the Freshers' Welcome should demand an approach to new students that will dignify V.U.C. and make them feel that they have made intellectual progress by their enrollment Freshers as yet [unclear: unacclimatised] to the opinions and bravado of fellow students of previous years' enrollment are but the ambassadors of the public. Their parents are the public and the avenue of public opinion What is the logical question they ask their son or daughter on return home after this introduction to V.U.C.? is it not after the nature of "What do you think of it, or how do you enjoy your new sphere? At that stage of their University life, what must be the answer. They may adapt themselves to V.U.C. life, but the answer to that first question has been publicised beyond recall.

Now, Sir, this leads me to another point brought to my notice by your report that "a Committee has been appointed to control" the capping procession proper and constituting that Committee a body for advice to those contemplating floats for that procession. This is a day when V.U.C. through its students is on parade before the public Let us have a capping procession worthy of the occasion. Away with the sexual suggestion, pornography, crudity, tap-room and ill-preparation of years past Finesse is the art of bridge, and may I suggest that it should be the art of the capping procession.

Many things have happened internationally, politically and socially during the past year. We have had a Royal tour and with all respect to the Royal couple, many scenes could be depicted on those "who ride first class through life on a second class ticket." The "common herd" would acclaim such charades. Remember, too that a "home-made" sign or motto in chalk or daub should debar that lorry. You must get your Joke or skit over to the public. Anything on the tail-board of your lorry is wasted and leaves the public cold. That float, is wasted and reacts against the [unclear: procession] as a whole.

Let this committee of yours, Mr. Salient, work out the skits and stunts to a detail and to applicants be able to say "These are what are left, take your pick; but if you have any other bright ideas let us O.K. them." Let this Committee not only control the procession but supervise it even to the point of acting as censor. Only then and not until then will the public lift its eyes to V.U.C. perched on Salamanca heights.