Students’ rampage to result in expulsions?

Press, 27 April 1987, Page 12

Students’ rampage to result in expulsions?

PA Hamilton Visiting university students whb went on a spree of vandalism at Waikato University during Easter face disciplinary action which could include fines, suspension, or expulsion. The student associations to which they belong are to be billed for the thousands of dollars damage caused. Some groups attending an Easter sports tournament at Waikato University went on a rampage that Waikato student officials later said was “organised destruction.” Goalposts were ripped

out, trees uprooted, and toilet walls and ceiling panels smashed.' Disciplinary moves have been announced in Wellington and Hamilton. A Victoria University council member, Professor David Bettison, wants the universities involved to consider disciplining 40 or so students responsible for Saturday’s widespread destruction. Universities have the power to fine, suspend, or expel students for breaches of discipline. Speaking at a Waikato University council meeting Professor Bettison surapsted that other uni-

versities should use their disciplinary powers against the vandals. The president of the Waikato Student Union and student representative on the council, Mr Simon Harding, said steps were being taken “to try to instigate disciplinary powers and procedures” through both the students’ association and university councils. . , T !i e . Vice-Chancellor, Mr Wilf Malcolm, said he regretted the actions of the “small but determined group of visitors” who caused a great deal of “maipem” and did C*nSl defflbl e damage. L