FREEDOM OF SPEECH.

Star (Christchurch), Volume LXVI, Issue 20359, 17 July 1934, Page 7

FREEDOM OF SPEECH.

University Council Debates Policy.

Press Association. AUCKLAND, July 17. Two years ago a memorandum was issued to the Auckland University College staff by Sir George Fowlds, then president of the council, concerning the responsibilities attaching to academic freedom of speech and writing. Yesterday the council fully debated a motion by Mr W. H. Cocker that the council should now withdraw the approval it gave two years ago to the memorandum which, he ' said, superficially expressed support for academic freedom, but was nevertheless objectionable. He took particular exception to two sentences: (1) True humility of mind brought about by real learning is a definite check upon intellectual arrogance engendered by a little knowledge: (2) I regard recognition by members of the staff of the responsibilities referred to in this memo as a matter of vital importance, and as being intimately related to the question of fitness for tenure of a University post. Mr A. H. Johnstone, K.C., in supporting the motion, said that apparently the Auckland University College was unique in the British Empire in its attitude to this question. Mr Henry Horton, in opposing the motion, said that the Government indirectly provided the salaries of University staffs, and so long as they drew those salaries no sort of freedom of speech which impinged on loyalty should be allowed. University teachers had a greater responsibility than ordinary citizens. If they allied themselves in any way with Communism, they could not command the respect of the community. Professor Maxwell Walker, chairman of the Professorial Board, opposed the motion which, after further debate, was rejected by eight votes to four.