The Main Point.

There is no doubt that Manin's actions were unjustifiable, and he should be severely rapped over the knuckles by both staff and students for his actions. After all, it's none of his business whether students owe money to Whitcoulls, the S.P.C.A. or the Association for Left Handed Typists.

However, there is a more important principle at stake. Whitcoulls, who started the ball rolling, has used the administration to pressure students into paying their debts. The reason for this is quite obvious Whitcoulls is not only assured of a guaranteed profit every year, but has taken steps to eradicate any risk factor that their line of business may involve. The result is twofold.

Firstly, Whitcoulls, who have no real interest in the affairs of students, stash away a tidy sum each year. For 1976, that figure was $54,835. In return, they pay 6% of sales as rent, reduced from 10% in 1975 because they claimed, they weren't making enough profit. Secondly, students who have no real alternative but to shop at Whitcoulls, either pay up or risk having their dirty linen displayed in the staff-room.

It is high time that the whole question of the Whitcoulls monopoly on books is looked at closely. There are indications that students are dissatisfied with the service that Whitcoulls offers. Students have no direct say in what books should or should not be stocked, and lecturers, acting as salesmen for Whitcoulls, are convincing students to buy books that are rarely used.