UNIVERSITY SENATE

New Zealand Times, Volume L, Issue 11423, 20 January 1923, Page 6

UNIVERSITY SENATE

HONORARY DEGREES MOTION STRONGLY OPPOSED BY SIR ROBERT STOUT. “WANTED CONTROL.” Per Press A csociation. DUNEDIN, January 19. At the University Senate, Mr O. Bakewell (Wellington) moved that the necessary steps be taken to confer honorary degrees. He remarked that true learning should be acknowledged, whether inside or outside the Academy. In the discussion, some members urged the possible, use of such degrees for political purposes. “To itinerary politicians,” 6aid one speaker. Professor Macmillan Brown, in opposing the proposal, said it was extremely difficult to steer clear from such influence. Professor Hunter declared that it was a blot on the university that distinguished men were not more closely associated with the teaching of scientific subjects. The Chancellor asked whoever had heard of a Board of Studies deciding upon honorary degrees in any part of the world. During a century of existence tho Tendon University had granted only three degrees—that of Bachelor of Laws to the King, that of Doctor ov Music to the Queen, and that of Doctor of Science to the Prince of Wales. “You are trying,” he declared, “to destroy the university as fast as you can ” * The resolution was lost by 14 votes to 9.

Mr Anderson moved: “That the Senate regrets that the time of the Board of Studies should be occupied wiTn subjects over which the hoard ha 6 no jurisdiction.” The mover said the board was not competent to discuss the question of the four independent universities. It should not have given currency to its views. Professor Scott said the passing of the motion would create an open breach between the Senate and the Board of SYudies. The Chancellor said the professors if anted To control the universities, ignoring tho Senate. Professor Hunter said it was regrettable that the board had exceeded the scope of Us duties, but the question of the four universities would always be wrapped up with the difficulty of tho examiners.

The motion was carried on the voices.