Labour in the gun

Few persons conversant with local politics will not know that Labour's Wellington Central hopeful this year, Dave Shand, is in fact one of us. That is to say, he is a senior lecturer in Accountancy, but, though that is partly his fault, don't hold it against him.

Nevertheless, partially in support of Dave Shand, though not entirely in his image, the Labour Club was revived at an inaugural meeting held last month. Student politics, like most forms of political action, derive their shape and impetus from the political aspirations of those individuals and groups most actively participating.

Thus, the Labour Club was reborn. It was an opportunity not to be missed. The inaugural meeting was a colourful one — the idealism of youth cannot be entirely to blame.

The Labour Club exists primarily to educate, inform, amaze or dumbfound students with the rationale and logic of the policies enunciated by the party from whence it springs. It claims a total membership of over 160 with a running committee of about 12, which includes at least one lightweight. Membership figures place the club second largest on campus, behind Christian Union. It is the viable alternative to the sleepy young Nats.

It could be more. Fortnightly meetings are advertised around the campus and you are assured that if you are sympathetic to the cause, or not too violently opposed, you would be welcome. Members will not agree on all issues. It would be sad if they did.

Membership of the club does not automatically constitute membership of the party. A separate proceedure of enrolment is followed by those wishing to suscribe to the party proper. Any club member attending Running Committee meetings has full speaking and voting rights.

That is it, in black and white. All students should in passing consider the value of enroling and voting within the Wellington Central electorate this year instead of their home electorates. National's Ken Comber MP hangs on by his back teeth. Dave Shand must over haul a mere 27 votes, and despite what Prof. John Roberts says, a substantial student and youth vote should assure Dave Shand of a seat inside the House, this time for a bit longer than 1972.

Danny Keenan