No Offence?

No offence? Canterbury executive member Andy Dennis wasn't so sure. Noting publicity given the "Carnage" game in Christchurch Press newspaper, he observed that this wasn't a good way to improve public relations in the city, comparing its probable effect with the "drinking the pub dry" incident last year.

Other executive members were also dubious, although the meeting took no action.

Commenting on this, Lane said he and the other dozen organisers saw nothing wrong with the practice. However, he emphasises he was urging non-violence to all competitors.

"We will award points on ingenuity only."

Lane had his answer ready:

"It is not expected that victims will be attacked in bed. It is not expected that they will be stabbed in a crowded street. But a tie may be slipped round a throat (but not pulled tight) in some alley; food may be poisoned if there is opportunity to do it without detection; and assault may occur in the course of the daily routine although more subtle methods are preferred." said Lane.

But the police countered with the cry "sick." What with the recently-turned-murderous population, the police have enough on their hands, a spokesman said.

"Surely the students are old enough to recognise the dangers of such pastimes as 'Carnage' — dangers possibly not so much to themselves as to others, especially those of similar intellect likely to emulate their poor example." the officer said.

"Instances are known of similar activities having resuits far removed from those the perpetrators intended, but for which they could not ignore responsibility.

"Why endanger a university career, probably gained at the taxpayers' expense through a generous bursary, by risking involvement in criminal proceedings?" the officer said.

"It is a 'sick' game. We would expect something more healthy and constructive from university students, the same students who constantly seek finance from the public to better their place of learning, standards of teaching, and other things."

University of Canterbury officials had no comment to make.

There are at least 30 people entered this week, and more are expected before entries close, and for succeeding rounds. The game will continue until it dies.

Warning: This newspaper may be radioactive!