15 December 1992 Lincoln to Lay Complaint about Ram Magazine

Lincoln University is to lay a complaint under the Indecent Publications Act about the content of a magazine currently circulating under the title "Ram".

The University believes there is a public connection of its title with the Students' Association publication of the same name which was discontinued some years ago.

"We regard the content of 'Ram' as obscene, indecent and arguably racist," says Lincoln's Registrar, Allan Sargison.

The President of Lincoln University Students' Association, Kristine Potter, also condemns the publication.

"The association deplores the appearance of this magazine and is very concerned about the damaging connection people might make between it and the University. We completely reject material of this highly objectionable nature."

Although the magazine contains a disclaimer, the University regards a perceived public link with the institution as a matter of grave concern.

A legal opinion was received from the University's solicitors as a basis for taking action under the Indecent Publications Act.

Ian Collins, Journalist, Lincoln University, Canterbury, New Zealand.