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Salient. Official Newspaper of the Victoria University Students' Association. Vol 42 No. 10. May 21 1979

A National Demonstration

A National Demonstration

Initial suggestions came from Peter Beach, who wanted a one day closure of all the universities which would coincide with the huge demonstration in Wellington. Far from being a Victoria University demonstration, it would incorporate students from every university, who would be brought to Wellington in hired trains and buses. However a quick survey of University opinions around the country suggested that it would not be possible to raise a) the money and b) the enthusiasm for such a demonstration.

The idea of a national demo was reluctantly abandoned, but it was decided that we should still aim at a national closure of the universities. On the same day, the main university centres would stage marches that would bring in, if possible, everybody interested or involved in education, ranging from teachers through trade unionists to school students. The mood of the council came across strongly. We must involve other groups because education cuts effect not only university students, but ultimately everyone in the country.

When we march it will not be because we do not get a big enough bursary, it will be because the future of our country is at stake. To this end the camp sign will focus on the real effects of the education cuts - how they will affect all students, how they will affect the man in the street, and explaining how the teachers, doctors, engineers and, yes, even the politicians of the future have been the sacrificial lambs for Muldoon to slaughter on the alter of political expediency.