The Harvard Debating Council voted last night to withdraw from the Eastern Intercollegiate Debating League. Although no formal statement was issued by the Council, it was ascertained that the University speakers made the move in order to be independent of the policies of the League, which were characterized as being too strongly marked with the purpose of winning.

The Council decided to abandon the aim of victory in order to have greater freedom on the rostrum. They believe that their debating methods and qualities will no longer be subordinated to the material reward of defeating their opponents.

Treasury Low

It is also believed, although the Council did not discuss the matter, that financial difficulties played a part in the withdrawal. The teams have encountered heavy expenses in their trips this year and it is known that the treasury has been hard hit.

In spite of the unusual nature of the main item on the business of the meeting there was found time to hold the annual election of officers. G. W. Harrington '30 was chosen president of the Council for the coming year. J. K. Hurd '30 was elected vice-president, and S. G. Silverman '30 was chosen secretary.

The election of new members to Delta Sigma Rho, the honorary debating society, was also announced last night. The following were chosen: G. W. Harrington '30, J. L. Harding '30, Norman Winer '29, J. K. Hurd '30, P. J. W. Bove '29, Celian Ufford '19 and S. G. Silverman '30.