Report of the Honorary Editor

Transactions and Proceedings of the Royal Society of New Zealand, Volume 80, 1952, Page xvi

Report of the Honorary Editor Volume 78 of the Transactions was published in 1950, the parts appearing as follows: Part 1, February: Parts 2–3, August; Part 4, November. Volume 79, Part 1, is almost ready for publication, all corrected page proofs having been returned to the printer in April. The printer has had the manuscript for Part 2 for some months. The only complaints that have been made about the appearance of the volumes concerns the plates. The printer was notified and he replied that frequently it was not possible to obtain the kind of paper he required. I would again refer to the change of format proposed at last Annual Meeting. The size I recommended is a small quarto, giving an overall measurement of about 7 1/4 by 9 ¾ inches. The column of text would be 5 inches wide by 7 ½ inches high This size has been adopted by various scientific societies and museums in England, Australia and New Zealand Small quarto is a very convenient size with ample space for illustrations. It is desirable to have some standard in scientific periodicals, and in my opinion no better size could be adopted than small quarto. W. R. B. Oliver, Honorary Editor. On the motion of the Hon. Editor, Dr. Oliver, the report was adopted. Dr. Oliver reported further on the prices given by the printers for the proposed new format, and he asked for a ruling of the Annual Meeting as to whether the new format should be adopted. Dr. Archey reminded the meeting that the

last Council Annual Meeting had given the Standing Committee power to act in this matter. Decision to be adhered to. In connection with a request from Unesco regarding abstracts of papers, on the motion of Dr. Marwick, seconded by Dr. Frankel, it was resolved: “That the Editor be given authority to require each author to supply a suitable abstract with a paper forwarded for publication.” The President referred to a letter received regarding uniformity in printing. On the motion of Dr. Marwick, seconded by Dr. Archey, it was resolved: “That the matter of uniformity in detail of printing (capitals, hyphens, etc.) be left to the Standing Committee for action.” Report of Honorary Librarian for Year 1950–51 During the year the Library Committee approved thirteen additional exchanges, bringing the total number to approximately 350, which excludes some European exchanges which have not yet been resumed. The Library accommodation is severely crowded, the advantage gained from additional shelving is rapidly diminishing, but there is still room for a few years' operations in the present quarters. The inter-library loans and individual loans over a ten-month period approximate to 860. which with acquisitions, etc., is a heavy burden on the Secretary Fortunately, assistance was available for three months, and it is hoped will be available again in the future. Only a small amount of binding (to the value of £9) was undertaken during the year, but the reserve for this work now stands at £149 and the Society has some assurance against the future. The small grant for the purchase of additions to the Library is proven useful. Only in this way could the Library obtain the translation of D'Uiville's Journal and some smaller works which we have acquired. L. R. Richardson. Honorary Librarian. On the motion of Professor Richardson, the report of the Hon. Librarian was adopted. Report of Representative on Great Barrier Reef Committee Two meetings of the Committee were held in 1950. A strong protest against the taking of turtles led to a long discussion that resulted in the following resolution being passed: “That the Department of Harbours and Marine be advised that in the opinion of the Great Barrier Reef Committee an investigation into the ecological and economic status of green turtle (Chelone mydas) on the reef should be undertaken.” The Committee also advised that the green turtle be placed on the list of protected animals pending the investigation. The Marine Biological Sub-committee advised that the general fund of the proposed Marine Biological Station should now be opened. Professor Stephenson submitted a report on future policy and the use that would be made of the station by the Zoology Department of the University of Queensland. Dr. Mackerras mentioned that the Lands Department had reserved a part of Heron Island for the Great Barrier Reef Committee. The Biological Station Reserve Fund stood at £2,559 on December 8, 1950. On the same date the balance of the Great Barrier Reef Committee's general fund was £1,230. W. R. B. Oliver On the motion of Dr. Oliver, his report as representative on the Great Barrier Reef Committee was adopted. Report of Representative on Royal New Zealand Institute of Horticulture The twenty-eighth annual conference was held at Christchurch on February 21, 1951. All branches were represented. The President, Mr. R. L. Macalister, retired, and Mr. M. J. Barnett was elected in his place. The Banks Lecture was given by Mr. C. E. Foweraker, his subject being “A Century of Horticulture,” with special reference to Canterbury. The finances of the Institute, which were in a very low state in 1949, have now been put on a sound basis, mainly through a large increase in membership and an increased grant from

the Government. The membership in November, 1950, was 2,415 (in September, 1947, it was 513). The Government grant for the year ended September 30, 1950, was £541, and the total income of the Institute £2,561. W. R. B. Oliver Dr. W. R. B. Oliver moved the adoption of this report, which was carried. Report of Representatives on the Carter Observatory Board Board. The constitution of the Board at the end of the year was as follows. Dr. E. R. Cooper, Mr. R. G. Dick, Mr. R. C. Hayes, Mr. W. M. Jones, Professor F. F. Miles (Government), Mr. E. P. Norman, Mr. M. A. Castle (Wellington City Council), Dr. M. A. F. Barnett, Mr. C. G. G. Berry (Royal Society of New Zealand). This Board was appointed by the Government on 1st January, 1951. Members of the previous Board not reappointed were Professor D. C. H. Florance Professor C. N. M. Watson-Munro (Government), and Mr. L. T. Jacobsen (Wellington City Council) Professor Florance has been a member of the Board since its inception. Mr E. P. Norman was elected Chairman and Professor D. C. H. Florance Deputy Chairman until December, 1950. Professor F. F. Miles acted as Deputy Chairman for the remainder of the year. Six meetings of the Board were held during the year. Educational Work. The Observatory was opened to the public regularly on Friday evening, from February to December and on a few special occasions. There was a total attendance of 1,691 for 45 sessions A public lecture was given twice in the Concert Chamber of the Town Hall to a total of 1,100 people. The Observatory has taken an interest in individual amateurs and astronomical societies in other centres. The lecture room has been made available to local astronomical societies for their regular meetings. Solar Work. With the supplementary work of selected amateur astronomers in Wellington, New Plymouth and Christchurch. 717 observations of sunspots were secured, making a running total of 3,294 since October, 1945 Studies of the distribution of sunspots in latitude and longitude as well as a determination of the ochs of the last minimum and maximum of solar activity were completed. A total of thirty hours was spent on spectrohelioscope observations, but only four flares of intensity “I” or less were seen. Solar observations of all kinds have been forwarded to such international authorities as require them. Auroral Work. The auroral work has been continued as in former years, and the cameras have now been in operation at Tarerr and Invercargill Up to date there has been no success in duplicate photography, but single station photographs of high quality have been obtained at Invercargill. A preliminary study of the correlation between solar and auroral activity was completed, and some attention given to the seasonal variation of auroral activity, which it is suggested may be somewhat coincidental. Radio Disturbance Forecasts. These have been supplied as in previous years to the Post and Telegraph Department, the New Zealand Broadcasting Service, and the Overseas Telecommunications Commission (Australia) General. Computations of the path of the annual eclipse of 8th March, 1951 (N.Z. date), across New Zealand, as well as the circumstances for eleven localities were made. A preliminary consideration of observations available indicates differences between observation and calculation to be not more than one second. Sufficient evidence was collected to show that a meteorite struck the south-eastern part of the North Island on 4th February, 1951, but there was not sufficient data to arrive at a precise location. Information. Information on various astronomical phenomena often requiring computation was supplied in response to many requests. Telescope Objective. It was discovered that some deterioration had occurred on one of the surfaces of the objective on the -inch telescope. The lens was sent to Sir Howard Grubb, Parsons and Co, Newcastle-upon-Tyne, for repolishing and refiguring it necessary. Up to date, no information has been received as to the progress of the work In the meantime, small telescopes are in use at the Observatory to overcome the deficiency. C. G. G. Berry M. A. F. Barnett April 24, 1951.

On the motion of Dr. Focken, seconded by Dr. Marwick, the report of the representatives on the Carter Observatory Board was adopted. Report of Representative on Board of Trustees, National Art Gallery and Dominion Museum The Board of Trustees held its usual meetings during the year, and, until the regretted death of Dr. P. Marshall, each meeting was attended by both of the Society's representatives. The Art Gallery and Museum have carried on normal activities during the year and the large attendances of the public showed wide interest in the pictures and exhibits. Following upon the full opening of the Art Gallery and the Museum, the cost of operation has been considerably increased by the engagement of extra attendants and cleaners and by a general increase in remuneration of the staff. The increased costs have been partly met by an increase in the Government grant but the funds available are still insufficient. April 24 1951 W. P. Evans On the motion of Dr. Oliver, seconded by Dr. Marwick, the report of the representatives on the Board of Trustees was adopted. Report of Hutton Grantees Bailey, M. H. who in 1948 was granted £30 for an investigation of the igneous rocks and general geology of Cape karikari area, reported on the 20th April that in December he made his fourth visit to the area and the rugged stretch of coastline between Brodies Creck and Knuckle Point was examined On this part of the coast is the site of the first attempt to mine copper in New Zealand, a drive having been opened in the cliffs in 1847. The steepness of the coast necessitated the use of a launch and dinghy to carry out the work and the costs of the expedition exhausted the balance of the grant. Visits to the Moturoa Islets, off Cape karikari to Houhora and to the west shore of Whangaroa Bay, all directly connected with the project, were carried out independently in February, 1951. As the grant has now all been expended, Mr. Battey summarises the work as follows: (a) Collections: 298 accurately localised rock specimens have been collected from the area during visits made under the grant and have been numbered, catalogued and deposited in the collections of the Auckland War Memorial Museum Thin sections have been made of 93 rocks and further sections are in preparation These, too, will be deposited with the others. Maps: Detailed geological maps of critical parts of the coast have been prepared as well as a general geological map of Rangiawhia Peninsula on a scale of 1 mile to an inch. (c) Publications: A paper entitled “The Geology of Rangiawhia Peninsula. Doubtless Bay, North Auckland,” was published in December last in the Records of the Auckland Institute and Museum. A separate copy of this paper, which presents the results of the field mapping and conclusions on the geological structure, was attached to the grantee's report. (d) Further work: The rock collections will provide material for further inquiry in other directions. Cook. V. J., who in 1949 was granted £30 for research on Cyperaceae, reported on the 22nd April that parts of Canterbury and Westland have been visited and specimens of interest observed and collected. These specimens were mainly Scupus, Cacex and Uncinia. The localities visited included some from which plants being studied by the writer had been collected by earlier botanists. The results of the investigations are embodied in a paper now in course of preparation. Expenses during the year amounted to £10 6s 8d. leaving a balance of £5 17s 6d to grantee's credit. McQueen. D. R., who in 1949 was granted £15 for research on the regeneration after fires of Nothofagus forests of the Southern Tararuas, reported that the work was completed in December, 1950. A thesis on the subject was submitted as part of M.Sc. examination requirements. A summary is being published in the Bulletin of the Wellington Botanical Society. Fares and hire of packhorse expenses have amounted to £11 5s 10d. Powell, A. W. B. and Cooper R. C., were granted £50 in 1949 for an ecological survey of the Gouland Downs area of Western Nelson. Mr. Powell has reported that owing to his illness and the fact that Mr. Cooper was not available the trip was abandoned in 1950. Mr. Cooper is now going overseas for some years, and grantee asks whether in the event of his not being able to replace Mr. Cooper with another botanist, the Royal Society would be agreeable to his carrying out his section of the field work without a botanist. He is still anxious to do the area from the point of view of land snail population.

Wodzicki, Dr. K. and Robertson, F. H., were granted £40 in 1947 for research on the gannets at Cape Kidnappers. They reported on the 28th April that the investigations have been continued in each breeding season. Thirty visits have been made to the Cape by one or both grantees. Preliminary results are to be embodied in some notes to be presented as a paper at the Seventh Science Congress next month. In the 1950–51 season 148 chicks were ringed. Already one chick has been recorded at Port Macquarie, in New South Wales. It is expected that the present plan of observations together with dispersal studies will need to be continued for some time. Expenses amounting to £16 4s were incurred during the year, leaving a balance of £41 14s. On the motion of the President, the reports of the Hutton Grantees were adopted. The President mentioned that these researches should be encouraged, and he thought their scope could well be enlarged by the Government reinstating to the Society the Research Grant suspended some years ago. This grant had enabled the Society to make grants for research in pure science outside the scope of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research. On the motion of Dr. Archey, seconded by Professor Briggs, the matter was referred to the Standing Committee for consideration. Fuel and Power Production and Utilisation in New Zealand: Report of a Sub-committee of the Royal Society of New Zealand Energy Production per Annum. About 100 billion British thermal units of energy are produced annually in New Zealand at the present time; and about 30 billions are utilised. The remainder is wasted through inefficiency of utilisation. Of this 30 billions about 52 per cent. is derived from coal (including about 7 per cent. of the total from gas); 26 per cent depends on imported oil; and 22 per cent is supplied by hydro-electric stations. This amount of energy is inadequate to meet the requirements of the country at the present time, and the rise in the demand is such that it will require much more effective measures than appear in sight to ensure that the supply will catch up with the demand in the next few years. It is therefore of importance to inquire whether the present mode of planning for future requirements is adequate, and also whether sufficient attention is being given to the complementary problem of the reduction of waste energy and of the co-ordination of resources to secure the most effective utilisation of these resources on a national scale. Preliminary Survey of the Problem. In the course of a preliminary survey of the production and utilisation of fuel and power in New Zealand, the following relevant facts in regard to scientific research have come to light. 1. The Coal Research Committee of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research is carrying out a programme of investigation into the coal resources of New Zealand. As the result of the work carried out over the last ten years, an almost complete picture is emerging. This will probably be of inestimable importance, since no adequate scientific or economic planning can go far without a sure foundation of probed resources. 2. The current shortage of solid fuel each winter in most parts of New Zealand seems to be due mainly to defects in the system of distribution, which is in the hands of the railway, shipping, and harbour authorities. Long-term co-ordinated planning, backed by research, should be capable of removing these defects. 3. The chronic shortage of gas in many centres (tending now to a permanent shut-down in several centres) is a reflection of uneconomic conditions in the gas industry, which might best be countered by a vigorous programme of research into such matters as complete gasification of the coal on the coalfield or partial gasification underground. 4. Urgency is being given at the present time to investigations into the possibility of utilising geothermal energy, either directly for the supply of hot water, or indirectly for the generation of electricity. It is possible that other forms of natural energy, such as wind or tidal energy, might yield more attractive results if investigated with equal vigour. 5. The problem of improving the efficiency of utilisation of solid-fuel burning industrial plant is receiving some attention, but not nearly as much as the importance of the matter would seem to warrant. It has been estimated that a readily attainable increase in efficiency in steam-raising plants could effect a saving of the order of 100,000 tons of coal a year in New Zealand. 6. Some attention has been given to two aspects of domestic space-heating, in which there is much unnecessary waste (a) the inefficiency of domestic grates, effective heating

from which is usually less than one-half of that obtainable with more modern methods; and (b) the extravagant rate of heat-loss to the exterior revealed by investigations on most types of modern domestic building construction. One-third of our annual output of coal is used for domestic heating and similar services; and a saving of even only 25 per cent. of these losses would represent a very substantial tonnage of coal annually. The Root of the Problem. In taking a broad view of this problem, one finds that there is at present in New Zealand no controlling authority of any kind charged with the task of surveying the whole field of fuel and power, its supply and utilisation from the economic as well as the research angle, and of co-ordinating the efforts of the various authorities and interests, to the best advantage of the country as a whole. It appears to the present Committee that this lack of co-ordinated planning, both in the research and in the economic fields, is very largely responsible for the confused state of the fuel and power situation in this country in recent years. In the United Kingdom, the matter is considered of sufficient importance to demand a Ministry—the Ministry of Fuel and Power—responsible to a Minister of Cabinet rank. After the recent war, an organisation for national development was implemented in New Zealand, intended to cover a number of fields including fuel and power; but it appears to have been ineffective and was consequently short-lived. Some Further Considerations. Before any constructive proposals can well be put forward to meet these needs, it seems desirable to refer to certain other aspects of the problem, not strictly within the sphere of interest of the Royal Society of New Zealand, which, however, cannot well be neglected. The following factors are among those which appear to be relevant here. 1. The decline of the gas industry is attributed by some as being due to circumstances controlled by two State departments, State Hydro-electric and Mines. If this is true, closer co-operation would appear to be in the best interests of the nation; the country can ill afford to lose any appreciable fraction of a contribution equal in magnitude to about one-third of that supplied by hydro-electricity. 2. Approximately 30 per cent. of the hydro-electric energy utilised is employed at the present time in water-heating. While this method of providing hot water has considerable merit, it is doubtful whether New Zealand can really afford, nationally, to continue to expand the use of such a large proportion of her electric resources in this way, when there are available other methods, both cheaper and more efficient, if not in all respects as convenient. For example, it is open to question whether the policy of the State Housing Division, Ministry of Works, of supplying only electric hot water, etc (to the exclusion of gas or coal-burning methods) in most of its housing estates, is in the best national interest. 3 Quite a significant proportion of the electric energy supplied for hot water heating is wasted through inadequate lagging of storage cylinders. The application of restrictions on losses in old installations similar to those imposed on new installations would effect a quite substantial saving of power. 4. The relative merits of electric generation from coal, or of gasification on the coal-field, and the long-term problems of road versus rail transport of goods, or of coal, oil or electricity for rail haulage, are all matters of national, and not merely departmental, importance. The following authorities and interests divide responsibility in the field of fuel and power: (1) Mines Department (winning of coal); (2) coal-mining companies; (3) the gas and coke industry (part private, part municipal); (4) State Hydro-electric Department; (5) the oil companies; (6) Railways Department (transport of fuel; also balance between coal, oil, and electricity for traction; and between road and rail transport of goods); (7) electric power boards (equitable distribution; also conservation); (8) harbour boards (storage and shipping of fuel), (9) Ministry of Works (especially Housing Division—domestic power provision in housing estates); (10) shipping companies (transport of fuel); (11) D.S. I..R. (Coal Research Committee—research into both potential supplies and also efficiency of utilisation of fuel). The present preliminary survey of the situation shows clearly that some co-ordinating authority is necessary in New Zealand. It is equally clear that a much more comprehensive investigation is desirable before any definite and permanent action should be taken. This Committee therefore suggests that the Royal Society urge upon the Government the desirability of initiating such an investigation with the ultimate object of setting up a permanent organisation to achieve this aim of co-ordination throughout the whole field. Suggestions for an Intensive Investigation. We would suggest the following features in regard to such an investigation. 1. Executive power to conduct such an investigation should be placed in the hands of a small full-time working party, under direct Ministerial direction.

2. The chief of this party should be a very senior officer selected mainly for his tact his ability to understand and to sympathise with a wide range of viewpoints, to see the problem from the broadest possible angle, and to organise and direct investigation by team-work. 3. The other members of the team should all be senior officers from departments (or just retired from departments) or from outside the Service, with sufficient knowledge and experience to cover among them all important phases of the problem Then number should be as small as is consistent with adequate coverage. 4. For administrative purposes it is suggested that the party might be attached to the Treasury, as this is the one appropriate department which is not likely to be an interested party to any inter-departmental difference which may arise. 5. The work of this exceutive party should be supplemented by an advisory committee representative of all the interests, both within and without the Service, covering production, distribution, and utilisation. 6. This committee should have power to advise the Minister on the whole problem or on any aspect of it, to make suggestions to the working party; and to criticise from time to time reports from that party. 7. It should be consulted by the Minister before any permanent reorganisation of the mel and power set-up is finalised. (Signed) R. W. Willett L. Bastings Convene Dr. Bastings presented the report of the sub-committee set up by the Standing Committee to report on Fuel and Power Production in New Zealand. The Committee compiling the report and Dr. Bastings, who originated the idea, were congratulated on initiating an undertaking considered of vital concern to the community in general. Dr. Archey stated that it was the proper function of the Society to investigate these problems and not to be just satisfied to accept the situation, but to envisage the situation in the future. On the motion of Dr. Bastings, seconded by Dr. Marwick, the following notice of motion presented earlier in the meeting was carried: “That this Council endorse the action of the Standing Committee in implementing the preparation of the report on Fuel and Power Production and Utilisation and instructs it to proceed with the appropriate measures to bring the substance of the report to the attention of the Government.” Report of Representative at Seventh International Botanical Congress General. The Congress was formally opened under the presidency of Professor Carl Skottsberg by the Patron. H. R. H. the Crown Prince of Sweden, on July 12 in the Stockholm Concert House, before a crowded audience, including delegates from thirty-one countries Over 1,350 members were registered In the afternoon members were received by the Crown Prince, on behalf of His Majesty the King at the Royal Palace. On July 16 an excursion was made to Uppsala in honour of Linné, including a visit to Hammarby. In the evening a dinner was held in the Old Castle. During the Congress office-bearers were entertained at luncheon in the Stockholm Town Hall by the Mayor. Representation. New Zealand was represented by the following delegates Dr. H. H. Allan (Royal Society of New Zealand). Professor V. J. Chapman (Auckland Institute and Museum), Miss L. B. Moore (Department of Scientific and Industrial Research), all of whom delivered papers Other New Zealand members present were Dr. Elizabeth Flint Dr. J. B. Hair. Mrs. D. Laycock Misses P. Barker, J. Brown, and B. Menzies. Nomenclature. Sessions were held from July 7 to July 20 Dr. L. Lanjouw, Secretary-General, had prepared as a basis for the discussions the “Synopsis of Proposals,” a volume of 255 pages, giving under each article of the Rules the proposals for alteration, together with proposed new articles. The results of the deliberations have appeared unofficially (Flora Malesiana, Bull. 7, Nov., 1950), but the official volume is still under preparation. The chief results were: (1) a considerable clarification of the existing rules; (2) the addition of a guide for the determination of types; (3) a considerable improvement in the articles dealing with hybrids and horticultural plants. The reports of the special committees were considered agreed to in principle, and are being revised for final consideration at the next Congress, I propose to deal with some of these matters at the congress in Christchurch.

Main Congress. The scope of the Congress and the range of topics discussed in the fifteen sections will be gathered from the programme, attached to this report. It was, of course impossible for any one delegate to attend a tithe of the discussions, but as many abstracts of papers as possible were collected and are held by the Botany Division, D.S.I.R., for consultation. Ercursions. Numerous excursions were made under the leadership of Swedish botanists, and some twenty-five “guides” were issued. Copies of most of these are attached; a few titles will suggest the range—Phytogeographical, Bog and Mire, Forest, Licheno-bryological, Limnological, Salt Marsh, Algological, Taxonomie. Every effort was made by the leaders and then assistants that the excursions should be at once informative and enjoyable. Most of the New Zealand members attended the ten-day phytogeographical excursion to Lapland under the guidance of Professor G. E. du Rietz. There we were enabled not only to study Swedish methods of ecological investigations, but also to discuss topics of kindred interest with some one hundred and twenty botanists representing twenty-two countries. Lectures. Evening lectures were delivered by Darlington, Great Britain (“The Study of the Cell in the Understanding of Life”), Voute, Jugoslavia (“Die Problem du Biologie der Thermen im Lichte der neuesten Forschungs ergebnissen”), Goodspeed. U.S.A (“Aspects of the Vegetation of the West Coast of South America”), Turnill, Great Britain (“Curtis's Botanical Magazine”). Plenary Sessions. At the first plenary session an address was delivered by Dr. F. Wahlen, of the Food and Agriculture Organisation of the United Nations, on “Botany and World Husbandry” At the second plenary session addresses were given by Dr. F. Verdoon, “On the History of the International Botanical Congresses,” and by Professor F. W. Went on “The Effects of Climate on Plant Growth and Distribution.” At the final plenary session, leading delegates expressed then thanks to the Swedish Government and people and to the president and his colleagues for a most successful congress arranged under difficult conditions. The thanks of the representatives of the British Commonwealth were rendered by Professor F. E. Fitsch. Before closing the Congress, the president announced that it had been decided to hold the next Congress in Paris in 1954. Appreciation. It is difficult to adequately express the feeling of all attending members that the Congress had been most efficiently conducted, and the spirit of comradeship that inspired both formal meetings, official and unofficial hospitalities, and the delightful excursions in beautiful weather and surroundings—a multitude of languages, one spirit of endeavour to promote the welfare of international botanical relations. H. H. Allan On the motion of Professor Richardson, seconded by Dr. Frankel, it was resolved that the report of the Society's representative at the Botanical Congress in Stockholm (Dr. H. H. Allan) be received. National Conservation Council The Conservation Committee of the Royal Society met on April 27 at Wellington and considered a statement by Dr. G. Archey relative to the establishment of a National Conservation Council in New Zealand. Present: Dr. R. A. Falla, Mr. C. A. Fleming, and Dr. W. R. B. Oliver (Convener) Dr. Archey's statement is attached. The question of setting up a Wild Life Control Council was brought up by the Royal Society in 1945 (see Trans. R.S.N.Z., vol. 75, p. xx, 1945). The recommendation was repeated in 1949 in a Report on National Parks (see Trans. R.S.N.Z., vol. 79. p. xx, 1949). There are at present two Departmental Advisory Councils on wild life matters with representation wider than the departments to which they are attached. (1) Animal Ecology Research Committee, a committee of the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research; (2) the Rare Birds Advisory Council of the Department of Internal Affairs. This Council includes non-Governmental members and advises the Department on policy in respect to rare native birds. We consider that there should be set up a National Conservation Council with much wider representation, preferably not attached to any department directly concerned with wild life management, but to the Prime Minister's Department. The members that we suggest should constitute this Conservation Council on its establishment are given in the attached report. We think it advisable in the first place for the Government to set up an Investigatory Commission to consider the Royal Society's proposal for a National Conservation Council and also to receive submissions on this subject from other bodies, and to make recommendations,

We accordingly recommend for the consideration of the Council of the Royal Society that the question of constituting a National Conservation Council be again brought under the notice of the Prime Minister with the recommendation that an investigatory committee be first set up in terms of the last paragraph. R. A. Falla C. A. Fleming W. R. B. Oliver (Convener). Proposals for Establishment of a National Conservation Council for New Zealand The conservation of the natural resources of the Dominion is vested in seven Government departments and as many, if not more, acclimatization societies, operating under no less than thirteen Acts of Parliament, as follows: Government Departments: Those marked (R) operate divisions for scientific investigation. Agriculture (R), Forestry (R). Public Works (Soil Conservation) (R), Marine (Fisheries) (R), Tourist, Internal Affairs (R), Lands, Acclimatisation Societies. The Department of Scientific and Industrial Research undertakes natural history investigations bearing on agricultural, forestry and soil-conservation problems. The Department has recently established an Animal Ecology Section and the Council for Scientific and Industrial Research has set up an Animal Ecology Research Committee, an advisory body representative of its own Department and of Marine. Agriculture, Internal Affairs, Forestry and Soil Conservation (P.W.D.) Departments, the Private Forest Owners, Royal Society of New Zealand, University of Otago South Island Acclimatisation Council, the Federated Farmers of New Zealand, with Mr. E. G. Turbott as co-opted member. Lands and Tourist are not represented. Acts of Parliament Injurious Birds 1908; Scenery Preservation, 1908, Tourists and Health Resorts Control, 1908. Forests 1921–22 (Amend 1925, 1926); Animals Protection and Game, 1921–22; Land Act. 1924 (s. 129), Public Reserves Domains and National Parks, 1928, Native Plant Protection, 1934, Introduction of Plants, 1927, Noxious Weeds, 1928; Rabbit Nuisance, 1928; Fisheries, 1908. Soil Conservation and Rivers Control, 1943. In addition, there are many National Park Boards and Domain Boards operating under special Acts such as Tongarno National Park Act. 1922; Egmont National Park Act. 1924; Peel Forest Act, 1926. With such a maze of controlling departments and statutes it could hardly be expected that a sound national policy on the preservation and development of the country's natural resources and wild life generally could emerge Even in the field of scientific research, where it should have been possible to evolve a co-ordinated plan, each department has pursued its own way with consequent overlapping in some directions and serious gaps in others, but it is hoped that the recommendations of the Animal Ecology Research Committee may effect improvement here. The separate controlling authorities in New Zealand, having different administrative problems, pursue independent policies. These policies are unco-ordinated, and sometimes conflicting, thereby not only stultifying progress, but also doing great harm. It is clear also that these different authorities would not, indeed, they should not, accept a national policy derived only from the experience and determined by the sectional responsibilities of any one of them. The situation calls for the establishment of a National Conservation Council representative of each of the present authorities. The functions of the council would be. (a) To review the various administrative problems and to effect such co-ordination as might be found possible under existing conditions; (b) To determine what immediate and long-term scientific investigation is necessary, and to implement such research by a co-ordinated plan, allotting tasks to the departments best equipped for them; (c) To formulate an interim National Conservation policy, say a two or three year plan which, we imagine, would comprise much more research than sweeping administrative changes; (d) A long-term policy should be determinable within a couple of years. An important matter to be considered at the outset is whether the National Conservation Council should become a part of the present Department of Scientific and Industrial Research, as recommended by the Wellington Acclimatisation Society, or should be a new and entirely independent body. The D.S.I.R. includes in its staff botanists, zoologists and geologists whose present researches bear on wild-life problems; it also has had much experience and successful achievement in directing co-ordinated research apportioned among different research organisations,

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research is, however, by no means fully representative of wild life matters, and to add such representatives would probably make it unwieldy If it were decided to associate the National Conservation Council with D. S. I. R., it would be advisable for the enlarged Council to have two committees, i e. Industrial and Wild Life, each meeting monthly, the full Council to meet only two or three times a year. We doubt, however, if even this would be entirely satisfactory in operation, though it might work it the Council's functions were purely research. It must be emphasised, however, that the ultimate function of the proposed National Conservation Council is to determine policy, and we do not know whether D. S. I. R. determines industrial, commercial, or agricultural policy for the Dominion; we think not; it is a research department. Although we are by no means fully informed as to the interdepartmental administrative problems involved, we would suggest that an independent Council under the Prime Minister's Department would prove most satisfactory. Being unconnected with any one department, it could the better give impartial consideration to conflicting departmental policies. We wish here to make it clear that we are not referring to supposed departmental or personal invalries, but simply to the undeniable fact that departmental policies are frequently at variance, being directed towards different responsibilities, they must be so, and will remain so until they are brought into review by a co-ordinating National Council. The Council would, no doubt, need its own research staff to investigate problems which could not be appropriately undertaken by any one of the present authorities, most of the investigations would, however, be allotted to or apportioned among departmental research divisions. Nevertheless, it might still be possible for D. S. I. R. to undertake all the National Conservation Council's non-allotable investigations, thereby preserving a valuable liaison between all research plans. It is understood that D. S. I. R. should in any case be represented on the National Conservation Council. These matters, though important, are details of administration which local experience combined with a study of successful wild life control organizations in other countries may subsequently decide. The chief recommendations which we offer to the Council of the Royal Society of New Zealand for consideration and, if adopted, for reference to the Government, are. That there be established under the Prime Minister's Department a National Conservation Council composed of the Prime Minister (Chairman), and a representative of each of the Departments of Agriculture, Forestry Public Works (Soil Conservations and Rivers Control), Marine, Tourist, Internal Affairs. Lands Scientific and Industrial Research, the Acclimatisation Societies, the Royal Society of New Zealand, and the Chief Executive Officer of the Council. That the Council have the responsibility of considering all problems of wild life control and the preservation and development of the natural resources of the Dominion and its Dependencies; of determining the problems requiring investigation and preparing and administering a co-ordinated research plan; and of formulating a national natural resources and wild life control policy. That the Council appoint as its Chief Executive Officer a person of high scientific attainments and experience in New Zealand problems, such officer to be a member of the Council with authority to discuss and vote on all matters except those directly relating to himself. That the Council, in consultation with the Public Service Commissioner, appoint and employ such research and administrative staff as may be required. That the research and administrative policy decided upon by the Council and approved by the Prime Minister be carried out by all departments and other authorities concerned with wild life problems. Gilbert Archey On the motion of Dr. Oliver, convener of the Conservation Committee, the report of the Committee was adopted. Discussion followed on the necessity for a National Conservation Council as oultined by Dr. Archey in his section of the report to co-ordinate the various facets of conservation and control covered by eight Ministries and twice as many more Acts of Parliament. Dr. Archey considered the report should go to the Prime Minister. This was approved. International Union for the Protection of Nature. The suggestion of the Forest and Bird Protection Society that the Society should press for the affiliation of the Government and of the Society with the International Union was considered and deferred pending further information as to fees, etc.

Notice of Motion. On the motion of Mr. Buchanan, seconded by Dr. Archey, it was resolved. “That the Hawke's Bay Branch of the Royal Society of New Zealand, having now become an incorporated body under ‘The Incorporated Societies Act, 1908,’ this Council do now recognise the Hawke's Bay Branch of the Royal Society of New Zealand (Incorporated) as the immediate successor in all respects of the Hawke's Bay Branch of the Royal Society of New Zealand, in terms of the motion of this Council of 25th May, 1948.” In speaking to this motion, Mr. Buchanan asked the Council if it could arrange an extension of scientific lectures, addresses, etc., in country districts. The Hawke's Bay Branch appreciated deeply the visits it had received from Dr. Falla when President and from other scientists. Dr. Archey suggested that a symposium on Conservation matters relevant to Hawke's Bay would be one way in which the Branch might focus attention on the need for a National Conservation Council. Other suggestions for symposia, such as Unesco brings forward each year, were made. Notice of Motion Adult Education: On the motion of Professor Richardson, seconded by Mr. Buchanan, it was resolved: “That the Council emphasizes the importance to the community of better understanding of the effects of scientific discovery on economic progress and the influence of scientific thought on intellectual life; it recommends to Branches and to scientific workers a close interest in all means of dissemination of scientific knowledge and of extension of popular understanding of scientific method and thought” Election of Officers. The following officers were elected: President, Mr. F. R. Callaghan (re-elected). Vice-Presidents—on the recommendation of the Nominations Committee appointed at last Annual Meeting, Dr. R. A. Falla and Dr. J. Marwick were re-elected. Hon Treasurer, Mr. S. Cory Wright (re-elected). Hon. Editor, Dr. W. R. B. Oliver (re-elected). Hon. Returning Officer, Mr. A. T. Pycroft (re-elected). Hon Librarian, Professor L. R. Richardson (re-elected). Co-opted Member, Dr. J. T. Salmon. Election of Committees and Representatives. On the recommendation of the Nominations Committee appointed earlier in the meeting, the following were appointed: Representative on Tongariro National Park Board, Mr. J. H. Rose. Representative on Royal N. Z. Institute of Horticulture, Professor H. D. Gordon. Representative on Great Barrier Reef Committee, Dr. W. R. B. Oliver. Hector Award Committee: Professor P. W. Burbidge (convener), Professor H. G. Forder, Dr. L. H. Martin (University of Melbourne). Fellowship Selection Committee: Professor L. H. Briggs, Dr. D. B. Macleod, Professor R. S. Allan, Dr. D. Miller, Dr. H. D. Skinner. Library Committee: Professor L. R. Richardson, Professor C. A. Cotton, Dr. J. Marwick. Conservation Committee: Dr. W. R. B. Oliver (convener), Dr. G. Archey, Dr. R. A. Falla, Mr. C. A. Fleming, Dr. J. T. Salmon, Mr. N. H. Taylor. Nominations Committee The President, Mr. F. R. Callaghan, Dr. R. A. Falla, Dr. R. S. Allan, Dr. C. M. Focken, Dr. D. Miller, Mr. J. D. H. Buchanan.

Research Grants Committee: Dr. R. A. Falla (convener), Dr. J. Marwick, Dr. D. Miller. Vote of Thanks: Votes of thanks were conveyed to Canterbury University College for the use of the Council Room, to the Press, to Professor and Mrs. R. S. Allan, to Dr. O. H. Frankel for afternoon tea arrangements, and to the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research for use of the Council Room for Standing Committee meetings. Annual Meeting, 1952. On the motion of Dr. D. Miller, it was resolved to recommend that the meeting be held in Nelson. A. & N. Z. A. A. S. Dr. Archey was asked to convey to the Brisbane meeting the very best wishes of the Royal Society for a successful meeting. Dr. Archey said he was honoured to accept the position of representative of the Royal Society at the Brisbane meeting. Ninth Science Congress. A suggestion was made by Dr. Archey that the Ninth Science Congress be held in conjunction with the A. & N.Z.A.A.S. meeting in New Zealand. Travelling Expenses for the meeting were passed. A cordial vote of thanks was accorded to Mr. F. R. Callaghan. President, for his chairmanship of the meeting. Confirmed. June 7, 1951 (Signed) F. R. Callaghan, President Reports of Member Bodies Wellington Branch of the Royal Society of New Zealand Annual Report for the Year ended September 30, 1950 Membership. The membership of the Branch now stands at 310 Full Members receiving Transactions and 90 Associates an increase of 16 over last year. General Meetings: April 26, Mr. E. J. Faweett, “World Food Problems in Relation to Population”; May 17: Presidential Address of the Royal Society of New Zealand—Dr. R. A. Falla, “The Proper Functions of the Royal Society”, June 28: Mr. R. J. Dippy, ‘Radio for Civil Aviation’, July 26: Presidential Address—Dr. L. Bastings, “Some Physical Aspects of Domestic Comfort”, August 23: The Hudson Lecture—Professor Sir Charles Hercus, “New Zealand and Medical Research” September 27: Professor D. C. Marsh, “Some Aspects of Social Science” On Wednesday, April 12, members were invited by the British Council to attend an address given by Sir Henry Dale, O. M., in the Lecture Hall of the Dominion Museum, and entitled “The True Place of Science in Education.” On the evening of Thursday, August 17, members of the Wellington Branch of the New Zealand Geographical Society and of the Antarctic Society were invited to join with the Branch in hearing an address by Sir Raymond Priestley” on “Antarctic Exploration with Shackleton and Scott:” The meeting was held in the Lecture Hall of the Dominion Museum. Astronomy Section. “Gravitational Survey in New Zealand.” by Dr. E. J. Robertson; “The Earth's Structure as Revealed to Seismology,” by Mr. R. C. Hayes: “Geodesy and the Figure of the Earth,” by Mr. R. J. Owen: “Geophysics and Submarine Geology,” by Mr. W. M. Jones; “The Hydrographic Survey of New Zealand,” by Commander J. M. Sharpey-Schafer, R. N. Biology Section. Symposium—“The Future of Fiordland”: Dr. W. R. B. Oliver, Botanical Aspects; Mr. P. Bull. Zoological Aspects, Mr. C. M. Smith, Forestry Aspects; Mr. E. S. Dollimore, Tourist Aspects. “Roots” by Professor H. D. Gordon. “Tuataras and Birds of Stephen Island,” by Mr. W. H. Dawbin. “Florida Everglades—Its History, Reclamation and New National Park,” by Professor John H. Davis. “Investigation of a Rat Population in Cyprus,” by Mr. J. S. Watson. “The Insect People of the Maori.” by Dr. David Miller. “A Wairarapa Beech Forest” by Miss J. M. Samson. Geology Section. “Axes of Active Warping in Hawke's Bay” and “Remarks on the Lyttelton Harbour Problems” by Professor C. A. Cotton'; “Some Remarks on the Bushveld.

Complex,” by Mr. J. Reed; “Notes on Structures.” by Dr. A. R. Lillie; “Submarine Topography of New Zealand Seas,” by Mr. J. W. Brodie and Mr. C. A. Fleming; “Permian Fusulinid Foraminifera from the North Auckland Peninsula,” by N. de B. Hornibrook; “Permian Lonsdaleid Corals from the North Auckland Peninsula,” by Heather M. Leed, and “The Cocosbearing Beds of Cooper's Beach. North Auckland,” by Mr. R. A. Couper; “Geology of an Area South-east of Martinborough,” by Mr. P. P. Vella. Physics Section. “A Royal Air Force Colaboration Centre,” by Mr. W. H. Ward; “The Mass Spectrometer and Its Applications,” by Mr. G. Page; “Procedures in Investigating the Physical Properties of Materials and their Significance,” by Mr. C. L. Maloy; “Nuclear Processes in Cosmic Radiation,” by Messrs: D. Manchester and J. W. Humphries. Social Science Section. “More Notes Towards a Definition of Culture,” by Dr. E. G. Jacoby; “The Family Structure—Its Size and Composition and its Relation to the Total Population,” by Mr. G. E. Wood; “The Family as a Legal Unit,” by Mr. E. K. Braybrooke, “The Family and the State,” by Mr. H. C. McQueen; “The Family and Its Social Relations,” by Mr. H. C. D. Somerset. Technology Section. “The Development of Bridging in New Zealand,' by Mr. J. H. Christie; “Some Modern Welding Techniques,” Mr. Humm; “Submarine Cabling,” by Mr. F. C. Gentry; “Electric Power System of New Zealand and Plans for Future Development,” by Mr. M. G. Latta; “Sound Recording,” by Mr. N. S. Macdonald; “Town Gas Manufacture. Carbonizing New Zealand Coal,” by Mr. R. C. Pemberton; “Recent Advances in Rubber Technology,” by Mr. E. Freyberg. Science Exhibition. This exhibition, which centred around the theme “Science and Food,” was held in the Town Hall from Thursday evening, March 30, to Wednesday evening, April 5, inclusive. Auckland Institute and Museum Annual Report for the Year ended March 31 1951 Membership At the close of the year the membership of the Auckland Institute and Museum stood at 884, comprising 250 life members and 634 annual members. During the year we lost 50 members by death, resignation and deletion, and 66 new members were elected. Meetings Lectures given by our own members or by visiting Dominion speakers were: Mr. R. G. Lister, B. A., “Population and Peace Around the Pacific”; Professor V. J. Chapman, Ph.D, “Soil and Food”; Dr. David Miller, MSc, F. R. S. N. Z., “Animal Life in the New Zealand Forest”; Professor F. J. Llewellyn. Ph.D, “Electric Sparks and How to Tame Them”; Mr. W. H. Cocker, C.M.G., M. A. LL. B., “The Trial of Edward Gibbon Wakefield”; Dr. J. Egerton Caughey, “Preventive Medicine in War and Peace.' Sunday Lectures. The Museum Sunday afternoon public lectures were well attended; the following list indicates the variety of interesting subjects offered: Mr. Johannes C. Andersen, M.B.E., “The Moa in History and Tradition”; Mr. E. G. Turbott, “The Sea-birds of the Hauraki Gulf”; Mr. V. F. Fisher, “The Oldman Collection of Polynesian Treasures”; Mr. F. J. E. Jollie, “The Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew”; Mr. I. Russell, “An Artist Looks at Primitive Art”; Mr. M. H. Battey, “The Geology of Auckland”. Professor J. H. Davis, “A Naturalist Describes Florida.” An autumn show of Native Plants was held from 10th to 13th March, and, as usual, members of the Auckland Botanical Society, Forest and Bird Protection Society, and the Auckland Institute and Museum gave most generously in time, labour, use of cars, specimens from their gardens, and donations for prizes. Fieldwork. The outstanding feature of the year has been the opportunity to carry out field work at the Antipodes and Bounty Islands. The expedition had as one of its main objects a programme of observations on oceanic birds and on the few species of land birds inhabiting the Antipodes. The light conditions were particularly favourable for photography, and the Museum now has 800ft. of cinema film taken during the expedition which will provide material for several educational films. A visit to Great Island, Three Kings, in January was spent in establishing a further record of changes since the beginning of the period of regeneration. The island was mapped topographically on the scale of 4 inches to the mile, and a large collection of rocks was made so that some interpretation of the structure of the area is now possible. Education Service.—Summary of attendances for one hour lessons: Primary, 22,162; Intermediate, 5,128; Secondary, 1,730; Total, 29,020. The handling of this number of children on an individualistic basis was practicable only through the aid of the student-teachers and the use of two rooms for visual aids. In all, 102 students have worked in the Museum.

The demand from the teachers for loan material is most persistent Sixty city and 220 provincial schools have been serviced this year—an increase of 62 in the province. A further 43 schools have requested to be included in the scheme. Library. During the year 93 books have been added to the library, 628 of which have been purchased from the Edward Earle Vaile Trust Fund. Canterbury Branch of the Royal Society of New Zealand For the Year Ended October 31, 1950 Membership. Ordinary membership has increased from 240 to 246. Associate membership has declined from 13 to 11. Meetings. “The Spectroscopy of Soft X-Rays, and the Solid State” (Presidential Address): Professor F. C. Chalklin. “The Fenlands of England and then Drainage”: Mr. N. A. Mowbray “The Scope of Fresh Water Biology”: Professor E. Pereival. “Observations in Notornis Valley”: Messrs. R. S. Duff, B. Wisely and K. Miers. “The Scientific Method Illustrated by the Growth of Coral Reefs”: Professor R. S. Allan. “Some Aspects of the Relation between Chemistry and Physics”: Associate Professor H. N. Parton “Radiotherapy”: Dr. A. J. Campbell. “Nuclear Physics” Dr. G. T. P. Tarrant. “The Present Scope of Soil Microbiological Research”: Dr. I. D. Blair. “The Place of Science in Education”, Sir Henry Dale, F.R.S. “The Neurophysiological Approach to the Brain-Mind Problem”: Professor J. C. Eccles F. R.S. Riccarton Bush. As a result of the continued attack on exotic weeds and of the favourable autumn rains, the bush proper is now in excellent order. Of special interest has been the growth made on the areas previously cleared of oaks. The satisfactory natural regeneration, assisted by a minimum of silviculture, shows that it will be possible to maintain a complete cover of indigenous plants in spite of the drier soil conditions. The last large totara, which had been dead for many years, became dangerous and was felled. A cross-section will be preserved in the Canterbury Museum. Magpies have increased in numbers and have seriously menaced the smaller native birds. Canterbury Museum. The work of the Trust Board has been continually directed towards making the Museum play an important part in the lives of the people of Canterbury. In this respect, this year has unusual significance since it includes preparation for, and the beginning of, celebrations marking the Centennial of Canterbury. Field Club Section. The membership of the club at present stands at 45, of whom 11 are full members of the Society, five associate members, and 29 section members. During the year 12 field trips have been held, and these were, for the most part, well attended. Numerous specimens have been added to the Museum Biological collections, and the breeding, grounds of two species of Brachrpoda have been discovered at Ripa Island. Arthur's Pass National Park Board. Dr. O. H. Frankel has been nominated as the Society's representative on this Board to take the place of the late Mr. E. F. Stead. Library. The Society's Library is shelved, under a merger agreement, with the Canterbury University College Library and the resources of both libraries are available to members on application to the Hon. Librarian, care of the College Library. Otago Branch of the Royal Society of New Zealand. Annual Report for Session 1950. Membership. The total Branch membership is now 173. This is an increase of 8 on last year's total, and is the highest figure since 1941. Representatives on the Museum Committee. Mr. George Simpson and Mr. C. V. Dayns have continued in this office. Representatives on the Council of the Royal Society of N. Z. Dr. C. M. Focken and Mr. O. H. Keys. Fellowship of the Royal Society of N. Z. Your Council nominated Professor J. C. Eccles and Professor P. W. Robertson for this honour. Both of these gentlemen were elected by the Council of the Royal Society of N.Z. Pre-Sessional Meetings. During his brief visit to Dunedin in March, Sir Henry Dale consented to address the Branch. At a packed meeting held in the Chemistry Lecture Theatre Sir Henry spoke with great eloquence and charm about Lord Rutherford and about his personal association with that great man. Index Faunac Novac Zealandiac. A request from Professor Marples and Miss Fyle of the Zoology Department Otago University, that the Branch lend support to a project for a

new edition of Hutton's “Index Faunae Novae Zealandiac” was favourably received by your Council. Correspondence with the Canterbury Branch indicates that it is also interested. A provisional committee consisting of members from both Branches has now been formed to devise ways and means of compiling and publishing a new edition of this most useful work. Astronomical Section. Beverly-Begg Observatory: Following the reinstatement of Saturday public sessions a successful observing season ensued during 1950, about 400 people visiting the Observatory. During the winter months Messrs Nicklin and Couling completed the renovations by painting the exterior of the Observatory and oiling the bricks. The dome has been coated with a special aluminium paint, greatly improving its appearance and having the effect of maintaining a more even temperature inside the building. Nevertheless the dome's malthoid covering is in need of renewal. The Section owes a special debt of gratitude to Mr. R. G. Sutherland, whose skill and industry have resulted in the Beverly 3-inch refractor reappearing in an apparently new condition. Both the 12-inch and the 3-inch telescopes have been adorned with new, lerger finders, imported from Broadhurst Clarkson & Co. From the same English firm has been purchased a new 2 ¼-inch objective for the transit instrument to replace the glass stolen some years ago by vandals. A further useful addition to the range of instruments is a 6 x 30 binocular for scouting work, purchased for a very reasonable sum from a London firm. Historical Section. Seven meeting, were held throughout the year, and a wide range of subjects covered. Nelson Philosophical Society. Annual Report for the Year Ended September 30, 1950. Membership. The total membership of the Society for the year was 51 (34 full and 17 associate members), compared with last year, 49, including 34 full members and 15 associate members. Meetings. Professor B. Elwood Montgomery: “Organisation of Research in an American University.” Sir Theodore Rigg (Presidential Address): “The Conservation of Soil”: Colonel C. B. Bereton: “The Tragedy at the Wanau on 17th June, 1943.” Dr. H. O. Askew: “On the Use of Radio-active Elements in Agricultural Research”: Mr. L. Guir: “Extinct and Primitive Birds of N. Z.” Mr. E. S. Gourlay: Cacir and Succulent Plants.” Mr. B. H. Wood: “Recent Advances in Telecommunication.” Hawke's Bay Branch of the Royal Society of New Zealand. Annual Report for the Year Ended December 31, 1950. Meetings. At the Annual General Meeting Mr. Fisher addressed members on Anthropology and at the quarterly meetings Mr. Holt spoke on “Forestry in New Zealand.” Dr. Bastings on “The Physical Aspects of Domestic Comfort,” and Dr. Kingma on “Geology in Hawke's Bay.” Incorporation. At the last Council Meeting of the year, on November 30, members were informed that the Society was at last incorporated. Membership. At present there are 122 members of the Society. Bulletins. Two bulletins were issued during the year one containing the Chairman's Report for 1949, and the second the talks by Mr. Holt, Dr. Bastings, and Dr. Kingma. Library. Several books had been added to the Library, which is at present housed in the Napier Public Library. Sections. The Sections now operating are Astronomical. Meterological, Geographical, Ornithological, Photographic and Historical. Southland Branch of the Royal Society of New Zealand Membership. Life members, 4; members, 46. Meetings. The President, Mr. F. M. Corkill, on “The Treatment of Sewage.” Mr. L. E. Richdale spoke on his recent research work on Where Island. Captain George M. Turner showed his films of Bird and Forest Lite. “Geological Time and Its Applications,” Mr. A. C. Beck Combined meeting with University Association to hear Dr. Odell. Some New Drugs and Poisons,” Mr. O. H. Keys “Three Kings Islands” Dr. G. T. S. Baylis. Where Hut. Considerable expenditure was measured on repairs to the Where Hut. New roofing iron, water drams and a Runlite stove were provided. The cost of landing them on the island is heavy.