On Responsibility

Mr. O'Brien's action was typical of the silliness that crops up in student affairs from time to time, the last important manifestation being the Whitta-Marchant fiasco in 1955.

An elected officer is expected to serve his term. He should resign only if (i) his position on Exec is intolerable; (ii) he cannot handle the work; or (iii) he believes Exec is pursuing a policy harmful to the interests of the student body. Mr. O'Brien had discharged his duties very well; he is not known to have disagreed with Exec policy and his position was certainly Not untenable.

After the President, the Secretary is the most important man on Exec. The smooth running of the Association depends largely on him, and he may have an important part to paly in student affairs if he works for the Association's good.

Had the Exec not supported Mr. Wilson, Mr. Wilson would have had not choice but to resign. When the President resigns there must be a new election.

By his stubbornness, Mr. O'Brien badly strained relations within Exec and (perhaps) imperilled its existence. He may also have shortened the life of Exec. Mr. Davy has now resigned from the Men's Committee to become Secretary. One more resignation (about the normal summer vacation average) will mean a new election anyway.

John Gamby.