Graduates in Conference

Two matters prominently discussed at the annual meeting of the District Court of Convocation held at the College on Thursday last were Medical Schools and Membership of the College Council. The members present, few in number, were however prolific in ideas.

Student Representation.

The Chairman, Mr. H. McCormack, referring to the question of student represenattion on the College Council, stated that a deputation from the court had approached the Council, but as yet no finality had been reached, although it was accorded a sympathetic hearing. The Committee of the Court had prepared a memorandum setting forth the case for representation and had forwarded it to the Council.

Ballot Papers.

Exception was taken to the present method of setting out ballot papers for election of the Court's representatives to the Council, inasmuch as these papers were considered discriminatory when academic qualifications and occupations were endorsed after the names of candidates. The practice of the Council in going into committee when controversial issues were raised, was also criticised, and a motion was carried suggesting that this privilege be less freely availed of.

Another Medical School.

The question of establishing a medical school in the North Island provoked lengthy discussion, in the course of which Dr. Sutch made-feeling reference to the inability of unfinancial students to pursue the medical course. He suggested the establishment of medical schools similar to the present Training Colleges. Finally it was decided on the motion of Professor Kirk that a special committee be set up to consider the best means of enabling students well fitted for the medical profession, but unable to afford the expense to pursue the medical course.

The present method of choosing the personnel of the College Council was condemned. Dr. Beagle-hole maintained that those who had the greatest interest in running the College had the least voice in doing so, and he was warmly supported in these views. It was accordingly resolved that the Court's Committee be directed to consider the possibility of improving the system of choosing the personnel of the Council.

The following committee has been elected for the ensuing year: Dr. Beaglehole, Mr. N. A. Foden, Mr. W. P. Rolling, Mr. P. J. G. Smith and Dr. Sutch. Hon. Sec.- Treas., Mr. C. S. Plank.