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Salient. Victoria University of Wellington Students' Newspaper. Volume 31, Number 11 June 5, 1968

[introduction]

The Public Relations Officer of the Students' Association, Rhys Harrison, resigned his portfolio last week and then withdrew his resignation.

These actions followed the circulation of a petition calling for a vote of no-confidence in him.

Rhys described the petition as "irresponsible". He subbitted [sic] his resignation because he had no wish to indulge in any "petty in-fighting" to maintain his position.

After "discussions" with Exec members, he reversed his decision.

The petition, initiated by arts' student Simon Arnold on 23 May was the result of dissatisfaction with the way the public relations portfolio was being handled.

Simon said his opinion was reinforced after reading an article destined for last week's Salient. (The article later disappeared from Salient's Office).

But, after obtaining the 75 signatures necessary to call a Special General Meeting. Simon said he became "quite disgusted" with the situation.

The "petty intrigues and prejudices I encountered were quite repugnant", he said.

He indicated he had become sufficiently disillusioned with the petition to allow it to lapse.

"But I felt a responsibility towards the 90-odd students who had signed the petition".

He handed the petition to Denis Phelps who made a statement on its future.

"As association reporter I believe that Rhys Harrison fully deserves to be removed from Exec for his performance to date.

"In saying this I deny any desire to lake over Rhys' portfolio and in fact, would decline the co-option if offered it.

"Rhys demonstrated his lack of confidence in himself by resigning.

"But, in view of the imminence of Open Day I feel he should be given another chance.