SCHOOLBOY TOURS.

Hokitika Guardian, 30 January 1929, Page 8

SCHOOLBOY TOURS.

Umpire tours by British public school boys are a recent experiment. Parties have already visited Canada aid South Africa, and next month a party will arrive in New Zealand. The •'.(•heme has the approval of Mr Annoy Secretary of State for the Dominions uid the support of the leading British public schools. The boys, who travel with experienced masters, are all between 17 and If) years of age. The tour is thus timed to fit in between the close of their public school Ufc mil the beginning of the university career. There is much to be said for this endeavour to awaken an Empire '•nterest in the minds of youths who may later become Empire leaders in politics, science, and commerce. It ■nay be said that they are too young: but the Empire, especially in its outer pares, desires the outlook of youth. Youthful impressions may later require •orrection. tint it- is better that there should be youthful impressions rather than none at all. Too often we find that Empire travel by the men to whom it would be most beneficial is delayed because they are too busy until it is too late. The older man sees difficulties and decides that they are insuperable. Youth welcomes obstacles and is not daunted bv them.