Professor Graeme Fraser, from Massey University (an ex-President of NZUSA) addressed the meeting, outlining his concern with what is fast becoming a major issue in student affairs; the question of open entry into universities.

More directly, he questioned the legitimacy with which power is wielded with regard to education, by the Government and other authorities. A true open entry system will depend on discussions becoming more frank, discerning and reformed than they have been previously.

It must also be questioned as to what values this 'equity of power' is decided on. He stated that it was important to see the difference between 'big noises' and a more level headed view of things. We must question the very concept of open entry and what is really happening.

The Government must also decide the proportions of expenditure divided amongst the different educational levels. Cuts in staffing within the present economic climate may be seen to be justified by Government; but what must then be considered is what they think the vital areas in university funding are, if not the retention of staff.

People Ignored

Professor Fraser also discussed the faults of the Government's now common 'user pays' system. With priority given to short term, quick return ventures, it is obvious that they do not wish to become involved with the increasing problem of tertiary funding. The loan system only serves to affirm this, as the user must pay more of the direct cost. It seems, he said, that the Government is more concerned with economic gains, rather than the people affected. With a realisation of what Government is doing, comes a greater possibility of fighting against these cases.

Ideals Lost

With the alternatives being either: cutting back on all research, other than that funded from outside the university; a lowering of standards in universities; or, restricting entry.

The latter at this stage though bad, is "the better of three evils".

This will be unfortunate, he stated, as a day is appearing when tertiary education may become a "defensive necessity", as higher qualifications become more important in obtaining jobs. If such a situation occurs, all "de facto restrictions" to access to university (such as economic or personal ones) must be removed.

Dangerous Results

"The civilised pursuit of knowledge will give way to the more vocational courses" which are likely to be more profitable in such a situation, Professor Fraser explained. Open entry itself is conditional, but should not be restrictive on the grounds of economic or social factors.

Peter Hassctt