ANNUAL MEETING: BRIGHTON, JULY 5 - 13

SUPPLEMENT TO THE BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL

LO}NDON SATURDAY MAY 26 1956

CONTENTS Annual Meeting: Programme - - 309 Certifying Incapacity for Work - 324 Herefordshire Division- - - -317 Correspondence - - - - - 324 Reflections Upon the National Health Service - 318 H.M. Forces Appointments- - -325 Conference of Honorary Secretaries - - 320 Diary of Central Meetings- - - 326 Hospital Board Appointments - - 323 Branch and Division Meetings to be Held - - 326 British Medical Association ANNUAL MEETING-BRIGHTON, JULY 5- 13, 1956

President-Elect: ALEXANDER H. HALL, O.B.E., M.D. ,Local General Secretary: JOHN BEYNON, T.D., M.B., B.S., 24, Eaton Place, Brighton, 7. Science Secretary: H. G. MCGREGOR, M.D., M.R.C.P., 27, Brunswick Square, Hove, 2. Executive Officer: G. A. PECK, B.Sc., B.M.A. Office, Royal York Buildings, Brighton, 1. PROGRAMME The 124th Annual Meeting of the British Medical Associa- Several special visits and excursions are being arranged tion will be held in Brighton from Thursday, July 5, to for ladies accompanying members. The usual golf com- Friday, July 13, inclusive. petitions will also take place. On the evening of Wednesday, July 4, there will be a The Overseas Conference will be held in the afternoon Cocktail Party for Representatives and their Ladies, arranged of Wednesday, July 11, and will be followed by an '"At by the Brighton Division. This will be held in the Hotel Home" for Overseas Visitors given by the Empire Medical Metropole. Advisory Bureau. The Annual Representative Meeting will be held in the The Reception Bureau for Registration will be open in Dome; it will begin on Thursday, July 5, and will continue the Corn Exchange on Monday, July 9, at 9 a.m. on Friday, Saturday, and Monday, July 6, 7, and 9. Three Plenary Scientific Sess'ons have been arranged as The Representatives' Dinner and Ladies' Dinner will take follows : Wednesday, July 11, at 10.30 a.m., subiect " Recent place at the Hotel Metropole on Thursday, July 5, followed Advances in the Knowledge of Cancer"; Thursday, July by a dance. 12, at 2.30 p.m., subject "The Present Position of Cortico- The Overseas Luncheon -has been arranged for Friday, trophin and Cortisone "; Friday, July 13, at 9.30 a.m., July 6. subject " Handicapped Children." On Sunday, July 8, there will be an all-day steamer trip In addition, three Round-table Conferences will be held from Portsmouth round the Isle of Wight, and this will be concurrently on Wednesday, July 11, from 9 to 10 a.m., on followed by a concert in the evening given by the Southern the following subjects: poliomyelitis; physical treatment of Philharmonic Orchestra. mental disorders; leukaemia. The Adjourned Annual General Meeting and President's The nineteen Scientific Sections will hold meetings, in- Address will take place in the Dome on the evening of cluding a special session of the Section of General Practice Monday, July 9, and the President's Reception which follows on " The Education of the General Practitioner," to be will be held in the Royal Pavilion. held on Monday, July 9, at 3 p.m. (Details are given The Annual Scientific Meeting and associated functions below.) occupy the period from Monday afternoon, July 9, to the The Scientific Exhibition will be held in the Corn Ex- evening of Friday, July 13. change and will be open daily on July 9 to 13. Demon- The Official Religious Service will be held in St. Peter's strations will be given at fixed advertised times and a wide Church, Brighton Parish Church, on the afternoon of Tues- field of medical interests will be covered. For details see day, July 10, and the Roman Catholic Service will be held page 315. at St. Joseph's Church on Sunday, July 8, at 12 noon. The Exhibition of Pharmaceutical Products, Instruments, The Annual Dinner of the Association will be held in Appliances, and Medical Publications will also be in the the Hotel Metropole on Tuesday. July 10. Corn Exchange. This exhibition will be open from 9 a.m. There is to be a full social programme, including a Civic to 6 p.m. on July 9 to 13. Reception and Ball in the Royal Pavilion on Wednesday, The Ladies' Club will be situated in the Octagon Room, July 11. Hotel Metropole, and will be open throughout the Meeting. 2679 SUPPLEMENT TO THE 31.0 MAY 26, 1956 ANNUAL MIEETING: PROGRAMME BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL D. Gray & Co., 121, Western Road (Tel. : Hove 38766). REGULATIONS REGARDING DRESS Hotel Bookings & Information, Ltd., 80, Middle Street Academic Dress is to be worn at the President's Address. (Tel. : 28231). the President's Reception, the Official Religious Service, the Southern Accommodation Bureau, 68, Queen's Road Roman Catholic Service, and the Civic Reception. (Tel.: 25532). Robes may be hired from Messrs. Ede and Ravenscroft, Hove Ltd., 93, Chancery Lane, London, W.C.2. Early application Claridges Holiday Bureau, 8, Brunswick Place (Tel. is advised, as the supply of gowns is limited, and it is 38429). suggested that the gowns be sent to the home address of the Lyndhurst Accommodation Bureau, 33, Lyndhurst Road individual concerned. (Tel. : 70724). Evening Dress (Tails or Dinner Jacket), with Decorations, ANNUAL DINNER is to be worn at the President's Reception, Civic Reception, Special Notice and Annual Dinner. Evening Dress without Decorations take place should be worn at the Representatives' Dinner, the Repre- The Annual Dinner at Brighton this year will the Dance in the Hotel Metropole on on Tuesday, July 10, in the Hotel Metropole, and not on sentatives' Dance, and Thursday, as has been customary in the past. For this July 12. reason it is necessary to make advance arrangements for REGISTRATION booking seats. The maximum number which the room can The Council has decided to abolish the registration fee take is 350-arranged in tables of 10. of one guinea charged since 1948 to members attending the Members are strongly advised to book their seats as soon Annual Meeting; it will, however, still be necessary to as possible, in order to avoid disappointment later. The register. price per ticket is £2 10s., including cocktails, wines, and TICKETS liqueurs. No tickets for functions or excursions cani be issued in Applications, with the appropriate payment, should be advance, with the exception of the Annuial Dinner (details of sent to the Executive Officer, B.M.A. Office, Room 57, Royal which are given below). York Buildings, Brighton, and will be dealt with in the order All tickets for functions up to Sunday, July 8, will be in which they are received. In the event of applications available for Representatives at the A.R.M. Inquiry Office exceeding the capacity of the room, money sent will be at the Dome Entrance Hall on July 4, 5, 6, and 7, and for returned. ladies at the Ladies' Club, the Octagon Room, Hotel If any tickets are still available at the time of the meeting Metropole. they will be obtainable at the Registration Bureau in the Tickets for all other functions after Sunday, July 8, will Corn Exchange. be available from Monday, July 9, at the Reception Bureau. Members wishing to be seated with any particular friends Corn Exchange, or at the Ladies' Club. should give particulars when applying. Cheques should be made payable to " The British Medical Association." BADGES Members will not be admitted to Plenary Sessions, Round- EDINBURGH GRADUATES' DINNER table Conferences, Scientific Sections, or Exhibitions unless The Edinburgh Graduates' Dinner will be held in the wearing badges. They sho-uld therefore visit the Reception Royal Pavilion Hotel, Brighton, on Saturday, July 7, at Bureau, Corn Exchange, as soon as possible after arrival in 7 for 7.30 p.m. All Edinburgh graduates attending the Brighton to obtain their handbook, badges, and tickets. A.R.M. or resident in the area, together with their ladies Officers of Scientific Sections and other office-holders and guests, will be welcome. Tickets (27s. 6d. each, inclusive should inquire for special badges at the Reception Office. of aperitifs) may be had from Dr. E. R. C. Walker, 7, Drumsheugh Gardens, Edinburgh, 3. HOTEL ACCOMMODATION As many of the hotels on the previous list published are GLASGOW GRADUATES' DINNER now fully booked, we give below an additional list of hotels The Glasgow Graduates' Dinner will be held in the which may be referred to, and members are asked to write Dudley Hotel, Lansdowne Place, Hove, on Saturday, July 7, direct to the hotel, stating that thzey are attending the B.M.A. at 7.45 for 8.30 p.m. The dinner is open to Glasgow gradu- Meeting. The Association cannot accept responsibility for ates who are attending the Annual Meeting, their ladies, and any of the prices stated below. These are the tariffs ruling guests. The cost is 30s. each, including cocktails but exclud- at the moment, and are subject to alteration without notice. ing wines. Tickets are limited to 120, and early application, Applicants should therefore verify the tariffs when making with appropriate remittance, should be made to Dr. John their reservations. Cumming, 18, Palmeira Avenue, Hove. DINNER Name and Total Tariff, WELSHES INR Address of Hotel Tel. No. Room 1956. Capacity Bed Breakfast The Welsh Dinner will be held at the Royal Pavilion -1-I - 1- at on ADELPHI, Grand Junction Parade B.26402 49 18 6to 26 6 Hotel, Castle Square, Brighton, 7.30 p.m. Friday, ALEXANDRA, Brunswick Terrace.. H.34980 28 18 6 25'- July 6. All Welsh representatives, Welsh graduates, and GRAND, King's Road B.2321 1 225 30'- ,401- their ladies, KINGSWAY, Kingsway, Hove H.35277 100 22,6 ,' 35- others with Welsh associations, accompanied by LANGFORD'S, 8/16 Third Avenue, 6 will be welcome at this dinner. Tickets, 25s. per head Hove H.38222 100 19 30,1- be obtained on with LAWNS, 3/4 Adelaide Mansions, 19'6,, 30'- (exclusive of wines), may application, Hove H.36277 54 27/6 remittance, to Dr. S. J. Hadfield, B.M.A. House, Tavistock' MAlONE, Marine Parade B.22454 52 17/6 to 22/6 ME1ROPOLE, King's Road B.24041 320 32'6 Square, London, W.C.1.. (no single rooms) NEW IMPERIAL, First Avenue, Hove H.31 121 40 27,6 to 32/6 MEDICAL FELLOWSHIP NORFOLK, King's Road B.38201 78 22,'6 CHRISTIAN (no single rooms) ANNUAL BREAKFAST ROYAL CRESCENT, Marine Parade B.29272 65 32/6 of the Medical Fellowship SALISBURY, King's Road .. H.39642 52 21/- to 27/6 The Annual Breakfast Christian -~~~~~I will be held in the Hotel Metropole, Brighton, on Thursday, July 12, at 8.15. a.m. The Chairman will be Dr. Alex H. Hall In case of difficulty, members are asked to write to one and the will be Accomniodation Bureaux-: (President-Elect of the B.M.A.), speaker of the following Dr. D. Martyn Lloyd-Jones, who will take as his subject Brighton "Medicine and the Whole Man." The proceedings will to be are Accommodation Bureau, 9a, Manchester Street terminate at 9.15 a.m. Those intending present Embassy asked to notify Dr. T. A. Copp, 115, Surrenden Road, (Tel. : 29247). 6. Birchon (Green Guide), 40, Ship Street (Tel. : 25709). Brighton, 26, 1956 SUPPLEMENT TO THE 311 MAY ANNUAL MEETING: PROGRAMME BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL

GUILD OF SS. LUKE, COSMAS AND DAMIAN ROUND-TABLE CONFERENCES There will be a Mass for Catholic doctors attending the Wednesday, July 11, from 9 to 10 a.m. in the Royal Pavilion B.M.A. Meeting at St. Joseph's Church, Elm Grove, Brighton, at 12 o'clock noon on Sunday, July 8, in the LEUKAEMIA presence of the Apostolic Delegate, Archbishop O'Hara, Meeting-place: Music Room. who will give the address. Academic dress will be worn, Chairman: Dr. R. BODLEY SCOTT (London). and robing will take place at St. Joseph's School at 11.30 a.m. Panel: Dr. JAMES INNES (Edinburgh), Dr. W. M. LEvIrr After Mass the Sussex Branch of the Guild will give a (London), Dr. A. H. T. ROBB-SMITH (Oxford), Dr. J. D. N. reception at the Royal Pavilion Hotel, Castle Square, NABARRO (London). Brighton, to which members and their wives will be wel- come. Tickets for the luncheon, which will follow, price POLIOMYELITIS 7s. 6d., may be obtained from Dr. Emily Park, 40, Wilbury Meeting-place: Banqueting Room. Road, Hove. Chairinan: Dr. W. RITCHIE RUSSELL (Oxford). GLYNDEBOURNE OPERA Panel: Dr. W. C. COCKBURN (London), Dr. F. S. COOKSEY All available tickets for Mozart's opera Le Nozze di (London), Professor A. A. MONCRIEFF (London), Mr. Figaro at Glyndebourne on Friday, July 6, have already been J. M. P. CLARK (Leeds), Dr. H. S. BANKS (London), Dr. allocated, but, in the event of there being any cancellations, R. E. SMITH (Rugby). tickets will be available at the A.R.M. Inquiry Office, the Dome. PHYSICAL TREATMENT OF MENTAL DISORDERS NIGHT Meeting-place: Conference Room 1. SPECIAL TRAIN ON SUNDAY Chairman: Dr. WILLIAM MCCARTAN (Haywards Heath). Arrangements have been made with British Railways to Panel: Dr. DESMOND CURRAN (London), Professor run a special train on Sunday, July 8, leaving Brighton ALEXANDER KENNEDY (Edinburgh), Dr. DORIS ODLUM (Lon- Station at 10.35 p.m., calling at East Croydon and arriving don), Dr. DAVID RICE (Chichester). at Victoria at 11.35 p.m. Any members attending the Sunday concert and wishing to return to London afterwards will have ample time to take advantage of this special train. SCIENTIFIC SECTIONS Ordinary fares will be charged. All sessions will be held in^the Royal Pavilion (with the exception of Plastic Surgery) and details are given of the CAR-PARKING FACILITIES rooms where the sessions are to be held. Members are strongly advised not to bring their cars to Brighton. Car-parking facilities are limited and very con- MEDICINE gested during July. Ample taxis are available in Brighton, President: W. A. BOURNE, M.D., F.R.C.P. (Brighton). and a special taxi service will be operated from the Dome Vice-Presidents: R. S. BRUCE PEARSON, D.M., F.R.C.P. throughout the period of the Meeting. The distances be- (London); J. BASIL RENNIE, M.D., F.R.C.P., F.R.F.P.S. tween hotels and the location of the various functions are (Glasgow); GLADYS M. WAUCHOPE, M.D., F.R.C.P. quite short. Windscreen labels may be obtained at the (Brighton); Professor E. J. WAYNE, M.D., F.R.C.P. Reception Bureaux, and members bringing their own cars (Glasgow). are advised to use these labels to facilitate car-parking. Hon Secretaries: E. C. B. KEAT, M.C., M.D., M.R.C.P., "Halletts," Ditchling Common, Sussex; N. S. PLUMMER, M.D., F.R.C.P., 49, Harley Street, London, W.I. SCIENTIFIC MEETING Official Reporter: Dr. S. C. TRUELOVE. PLENARY SESSIONS IN THE DOME Wednesday, July 11, 10.30 a.m.: "Recent Advances in the Sessions Knowledge of Cancer" Music Room. Tuesday, July 1O.-9.30 a.m., (1) Modern Views on Chairman: Mr. A. DICKSON WRIGHT (London). Nephritis, Dr. M. D. MILNE (London); (2) Treatment of Speakers: Professor G. HADFIELD (London) on research; Chronic Renal Oedema, Dr. J. B. RENNIE (Glasgow). 10.30 Mr. A. LAWRENCE ABEL (London) on the general surgical of Dr. E. BEAUMONT treatment of malignant disease, and also the recent advances a.m., (1) Diagnosis Jaundice, G. (Lon- radio- don); (2) Management of Cirrhosis of Liver, Dr. S. in endocrinology; Dr. W. M. LEVITT (London) on SHERLOCK (London); (3) Film of Liver Failure. 11.30 a.m., therapy; Professor A. HADDOW (London) on chemotherapy. Modern Concepts of Anaemia, Professor L. J. WIrrs Thursday, July 12, 2.30 p.m.: " The Present Position of (Oxford). Treatment of Chronic Leukaemia, Dr. R. A. A.C.T.H. and Cortisone" HICKLING (London). Iron-deficiency Anaemia, Dr. W. M. Chairman: Sir CHARLES DODDS (London). DAVIDSON (London). Speakers: Dr. HOWARD POLLEY (Mayo Clinic, U.S.A.), Wednesday, July J1.-2.30 p.m., (1) Management of The Newer Derivatives of Cortisone and their Place in Asthma, Dr. R. S. BRUCE PEARSON (London); (2) Treatment Medicine; Dr. W. S. C. COPEMAN (London), Work in the of Asthmatic Attack, Dr. D. A. WILLIAMS (Cardiff); Rheumatic Field; Mr. A. J. B. GOLDSMITH (London), (3) Psychological Approach to Asthma, Dr. D. O'NEILL Ophthalmology; Dr. G. B. MITCHELL-HEGGS (London), (London). 3.30 p.m., Recent Advances in Therapeutics, Dermatology; Dr. F. DUDLEY HART (London), Cortisone Dr. A. H. DOUTHWAITE (London). Analgesic Drugs, Pro- Treatment After Removal of the Adrenals. fessor S. ALSTEAD (Glasgow). Use of Drugs in Neurosis, Official Reporter: Dr. WALTER MERIVALE. Dr. D. CURRAN (London). 4.30 p.m., (1) Doctors' Letters, Dr. R. A. ASHER (London); (2) Placebos, Professor E. J. Friday, July 13, 9.30 a.m.: " Handicapped Children" WAYNE (Glasgow); (3) A New Epidemic, Dr. N. D. Chairman: Professor WILFRID GAISFORD (Manchester). COMPSTON (London). Speakers: Professor N. B. CAPON (Liverpool), The Child SURGERY Handicapped by Cardiac Conditions; Professor A. W. G. EWING (Manchester), The Deaf Child; Dr. C. T. POTTER President: G. W. BERESFORD, O.B.E., F.R.C.S. (Brighton). (London), The Blind Child; Dr. MILDRED CREAK (London), Vice-Presidents*: JOHN BRUCE, C.B.E., T.D., M.B., The Problem Child; Mr. W. D. COLTART (London), The F.R.C.S.Ed. (Edinburgh); W. R. FORRESTER-WOOD, M.B., Child Handicapped by Orthopaedic Conditions. * The late Mr. H. J. McCurrich wu3 originally appointed a Official Repor-ter: Dr. W. G. HARDING. Vice-President. SUPPLEMENT TO THE 312 MAY 26, 1956 ANNUAL MEETING: PROGRAMME BBRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL F.R.C.S. (Brighton); JOHIN P. HOSFORD, M.S., F.R.C.S. Comatose Patient; Dr. A. CRAMPTON SMITH (Oxford), (London). Respiratory Failure and Poliomyelitis; and Dr. H. B. Honi. Secretaries: LESLIE W. LAUSTE, M.B.E., T.D., M.D., WILSON (Aberdeen), Respiratory Failure and Tetanus. 11.30 F.R.C.S., M.R.C.O.G., 2, Hamilton Mansions, Fourth a.m., Occasionial Papers: (1) Anaesthesia for Aortic Graft, Avenue, Hove, 3, Sussex; R. W. NEVIN, T.D., M.B., Dr. H. L. THORNTON (London); (2) Anaesthesia for Fenes- F.R.C.S., 53, Harley Street, London, W.I. tration, Dr. R. A. BINNrNG (Brighton); (3) Recovery Rooms, Official Reporter: Mr. SELWYN TAYLOR. Dr. RUSSELL DAVIES (E. Grinstead); (4) Neurological Com- plications of Anaesthesia, Mr. G. BONNEY (London). Sessions Conference Room II. Tutesday-, July I0.--9.30 a.m., Aetiology and Treatment of CARDIOLOGY Renal Calculi, Professor F. T. G. PRUNTY (London), Mr. President: R. KEMBALL PRICE, M.D., F.R.C.P. (Brightol). L. N. PYRAH (Leeds), Mr. F. E. FEILDEN (Brighton), Mr. Vice-Presidents: CLIFFORD G. PARSONS, M.D., F.R.C.P. H. S. C. CLARKE (Luton). 11.30 a.m., The Place of Con- (Birmingham); Professor C. G. ROB, M.C., M.Ch., F.R.C.S. servative Resection in Carcinoma of the Rectum, Mr. W. R. (London); PAUL H. WOOD, O.B.E., M.D., F.R.C.P. (London). FORRESTER-WOOD (Brighton), Mr. E. G. MUIR (London). Hon. Secretaries: AUBREY G. LEATHAM, M.B., M.R.C.P., Wednesday, July 11. 2.30 p.m., Aetiology and Treat- St. George's Hospital, London, S.W.1 ; R. S. STEVENS, M.D., ment of Varicose Veins, Mr. F. B. COCKETT (London), Mr. M.R.C.P., 1, Salisbury Road, Worthing, Sussex. S. T. ANNING (Leeds), Mr. R. B. WRIGHT (Glasgow). 4 p.m., Official Reporter: Dr. G. W. HAYWARD. Abdomino-thoracic Approach in Surgery, Professor MILNES WALKER (Bristol), Mr. R. H. FRANKLIN (London). 4.40 p.m., Session The Burst Abdomen, Mr. H. PARK (Brighton), Mr. SELWYN Music Room. TAYLOR (London). Tllursday, Jutly 12.-9.30 a.m., (1) Aetiology of Hyper- tension, Professor G. W. PICKERING (London); (2) Treatment OBSTETRICS AND GYNAECOLOGY of Hypertension, Dr. A. R. GILCHRIST (Edinburgh); President: Professor T. N. A. JEFFCOATE, M.D., (3) Pharmacology of Ganglion-blocking Agents. Professor F.R.C.S.Ed., F.R.C.O.G. (Liverpool). W. D. M. PATON (London). 11.30 a.m., Diagnosis of Con- Vice-Presidents: CONSTANCE L. BEYNON, F.R.C.S.Ed., genital Heart Disease, Dr. JAMES BROWN (Sheffield). Diag- nosis of Heart Disease in Infancy, Dr. J. D. HAY (Liver- M.R.C.O.G., D.P.H. (BrightoM); J. B. BLAIKLEY, F.R.C.S., ASTLEY F.R.C.O.G. (London); K. F. MACKENZIE, M.B., F.R.C.S.I., pool). Film of Cine-angiocardiography, Dr. Roy F.R.C.O.G. (Brighton); J. R. NICHOLSON-LAILEY, M.B., (Birmingham). F.R.C.S. (Taunton). CHILD HEALTH Hon. Secretaries: R. J. EADIE. M.B., M.R.C.O.G.. 27, Brunswick Square, Hove, Sussex; S. BENDER, M.D., Presidentt: WILFRID SHELDON, C.V.O., M.D., F.R.C.P. F.R.C.S.Ed., M.R.C.O.G., 2, Lache Lane, Chester. (London). Reporter: Mr. S. BENDER. Vice-Presidents: DOUGLAS GAIRDNER, D.M., F.R.C.P. Official (Cambridge); CHARLES F. HARRIS, M.D., F.R.C.P. (London); Sessions EVELYN D. SCOTT, O.B.E., M.D., M.R.C.P. (Brighton). Room I. Hon. Secretaries: RONALD MAC KEITH, D.M., F.R.C.P., Conference 35, Bloomfield Terrace, London, S.W.1; TREVOR P. MANN, Tuesday, July JO.-9.30 a.m. (in conjunction with Section Dean Court of Child Health), Discussion on Post-Maturity. To be M.D., M.R.C.P., D.C.H., Maydown House, opened by Mr. T. L. T. LEWIS (London), Mr. JAMES WALKER Road, Rottingdean, Sussex. (London), and Dr. THoMAS OPPE (London); followed by Official Reporter: Mr. S. BENDER. Mr. G. B. LIVINGSTONE (Belfast) and Dr. 0. D. FISHER (Belfast). Discussion on the Rhesus Factor and the Sessions Management of Haemolytic Disease of the Newborn. To be Conference Room I. opened by Mr. D. C. A. BEVIS (Sale) and Dr. P. L. Tuesday, July 10.-9.30 a.m. (in conjunction with Section MOLLISON (London); followed by Dr. BERNARD LAURANCE of Obstetrics and Gynaecology), Discussion on Post-maturity. (Derby), Dr. A. C. ALLISON (Oxford), and Dr. BERYL To be opened by Mr. T. L. T. LEWIS (London), Mr. JAMES WALKER (London), and Dr. THOMAS OPPE' (London); fol- CORNER (Bristol). and Dr. 0. D. Wednesday, July 1J.-2.30 p.m., Management of Hyper- lowed by Mr. G. B. LIVINGSTONE (Belfast) tension in Pregnancy, Professor R. J. KELLAR (Edinburgh), F1SHER (Belfast). Discussion on the Rhesus Factor and the Management of Haemolytic Disease of the Newborn. To Mr. E. W. L. THOMPSON (Dublin). Diagnosis of Ectopic L. Pregnancy, Miss M. K. LAWLOR (Brighton). The Importance be opened by Mr. D. C. A. BEVIS (Sale) and Dr. P. of Retroversion, Mr. K. V. BAILEY (Manchester). MOLLISON (London); followed by Dr. BERNARD LAURANCE (Derby), Dr. A. C. ALLISON (Oxford), and Dr. BERYL CORNER (Bristol). ANAESTHETICS Red Drawing-room. President: H. E. K. ECCLES, M.C., M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P., Wednesday, Jutly 11.-2.30 p.m., (1) Round-table Confer- F.R.F.P.S., F.F.A. R.C.S. (Brighton). ence on Accidents in Children, Dr. W. SHELDON (London) Vice-Presidents: R. A. BINNING, M.R.C.S., L.R.C P., (chairman), Dr. C. A. BOUCHER (Ministry of Health), Dr. F.F.A. R.C.S., D.A. (Brighton); J. H. CRAWFORD, M.R.C.S., KEITH SIMPSON (London), Mr. PATRICK CLARKSON (London), L.R.C.P., F.F.A. R.C.S. (Brighton); H. L. -IHORN-[ON, Dr. RONALD MAC KEITH (London). (2) Discussion on M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P., F.F.A. R.C.S. (London). Abnormalities which Cure Themselves, Dr. CHARLES Hon. Secretaries: T. A. Copp, M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P., HARRIS (London) (chairman), Mr. DILLWYN EVANS (Car- F.F.A. R.C.S., D.A., Waveney Dene, 115, Surrenden Road, diff), Dr. DERMOD MACCARTHY (Aylesbury). Withdean, Brighton, 6; J. V. MITCHELL, M.B., F.F.A. R.C.S., Thluirsday, Julv 12.-9.30 a.m., (1) Round-table Conference D.A., Nuffield Department of Anaesthetics, Radcliffe on Immunizations in Childhood, Dr. DOUGLAS GAIRDNER Infirmary, Oxford. (Cambridge) (chairman), Dr. W. H. BRADLEY (Ministry of Session Health), Dr. W. CHAS. COCKBURN (M.R.C.), Dr. NEVILLE Red Drawing-room. BUTLER (London), Dr. H. J. PARISH (Wellcome Research Tuiesday, July 10-.9.30 a.m., Management of Respiratory Laboratories), Dr. G. S. WILSON (M.R.C.), Professor E. T. C. Failure. To be opened by Professor E. A. PASK (Durham), SPOONER (London). (2) Discussion on Therapeutics of Child- General Principles of Artificial Respiration; followed by hood, Dr. E. D. ScoTT (Brighton) (chairman), Dr. PEI-ER N. M. JACOBY (London). Dr.-. BRYCE SMITH (Oxford). Respiratory Failure and the S-IFT (Farnborough), Dr. MAY 26, 1956 SUPPLEMENT TO THE 313 ANNUAL MEETING: PROGRAMME BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL

DERMATOLOGY Epidemiological, Dr. J. E. JAMESON (Brighton)-; Public Health, Dr. H. PAUL (Smethwick). Presidenit: REGINALD T. BRAIN, M.D., F.R.C.P. (London). Wednzesday, Jutly JJ.-2.30 p.m., Occasional Papers: Vice-Presidents: S. T. IANNING, T.D., M.D., M.R.C.P. Neurological Diagnoses in General Practice, Dr. S. L. KAYE (Leeds); F. R. BE`TLEY, T.D., M.D., F.R.C.P. (London); (Brighton); Hypertension in General Practice, Dr. R. S. E. COLIN-JONES, M.B., B.S., F.P.S. (Brighton); G. A. GRANT STEVENS (Worthing); Sleeplessness, Dr. C. H. WATTS PETERKIN, M.B.E., M.B., F.R.C.P. (Edinburgh). (Leicester); The Catarrhal Child, Dr. LINDSEY BATTEN Honi. Secretaries: STEPHEN GOLD, M.D., M.R.C.P., 19, (London). Devonshire Street, Portland Place, London, W.1 ; PATRICK HALL-SMITH, D.M., M.R.C.P., 65, The Drive, Hove, Sussex. NEUROLOGY AND NEUROSURGERY Official Reporter: Dr. J. T. INGRAM. President: Sir FRANCIS WALSHE, O.B.E., M.D., D.Sc., Session F.R.C.P., F.R.S. (London). Banqueting Room. Vice-Presidents: HELEN E. DIMSDALE, M.D., F.R.C.P. T'llursday, Juily 12.-9.30-11 a.m., Corticotrophin and (London); HARVEY JACKSON, F.R.C.S. (London); Professor Cortisone in Diseases of the Skin. To be opened by Dr. F. J. NATTRASS, MI.D., F.R.C.P. (Newcastle-upon-Tyne); J. T. INGRAM (Leeds), followed by Dr. R. P. WARIN (Bristol), E. J. RADLEY-SMITH, M.S., F.R.C.S. (East Grinstead); JULIAN Dr. G. WELLS (London), and Dr. C. D. CALNAN (London). TAYLOR, C.B.E., M.S., F.R.C.S. (London). 11.15-1 p.m., Brains Trust. Chairman, Dr. R. T. BRAIN Hon. Secretaries: J. MACDONALD HOLMES, M.D., F.R.C.P., (London). Panel, Vice-Presidents and Secretaries. 2 p.m., 8, Lichfield Road, Stafford; A. M. STEWART-WALLACE, M.D., Clinical Meeting. M.R.C.P., D.P.M., The Moot House, Ditchling, Sussex. Official Reporter: Dr. J. MACDONALD HOLMES. DISEASES OF THE CHEST Session Pr-esicde/lt: Sir GEOFFREY MARSHALL, C.B.E., K.C.V.O., Queen's Bedroom. M.D., F.R.C.P. (l1ondon). Thursday, July 12.-9.30 a.m., (1) Benign Encephalitis of Vice-Presidenzts: J. T. CHESTERMAN, M.R.C.P., F.R.C.S., Brain Stem, Dr. E. R. BICKERSTAFF (Birmingham); (2) Radio- F.A.C.S. (Sheffield); Professor JoHN CROFTON, M.D., logical Findings in Spinal Angiomatous Malformations, Dr. F.R.C.P. (Edinburgh); P. M. D'ARCY HART, M.D., F.R.C.P. HUGH W. DAVIES (London); (3) Cerebral Manifestations (London); C. BARRINGTON PROWSE, M.B., M.R.C.P. of Vitamin B12 Deficiency, Dr. J. MACDONALD HOLMES (Brighton). (Stafford); (4) Denervation for Carotid Sinus Syncope, Mr. Hon. Secretaries: G. KENT HARRISON, M.A., M.D., GEOFFREY KNIGHT (London) and Dr. SIMON BEHRMAN (Lon- F.R.C.S., 8, South Side, Wimbledon Common, London, don); (5) Some Neurological Manifestations of Endogenous S.W.19; A. MACFARLANE, M.B., Ch.B., D.P.H., Flat 3, 8, Hypoglycaemia, Dr. D. MOORHOUSE (Leeds); (6) Hypo- Palmeira Square, Hove, 3, Sussex. physectomy in Carcinomatosis, Mr. E. J. RADLEY SMITH (London). Session Conference Room II. OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH Tl lursday, July 12.-9.30 a.m., Prevention of Tubercu- President: L. G. NORMAN, M.D., M.R.C.P., D.P.H., losis: General Methods of Prevention, Professor F. R. G. (London). HEAF (Cardiff); Mass Radiography, Dr. V. H. SPRINGE-UT Vice-Presidents: P. LESLEY BIDSTRUP, M.B., M.R.C.P., (Birmingham); B.C.G. Vaccination, Dr. T. M. POLLOCK F.R.A.C.P. (London); M. E. M. HERFORD, D.S.O., M.B.E., (London). 11.30 a.m., Occasional Papers: Chronic Bronch- M.C., M.D., D.P.H. (Farnham Royal); ALICE STEWART, itis and Emphysema, Dr. CHARLES M. FLETCHER (London) M.D., F.R.C.P. (Oxford). and Mr. G. KENT HIARRISON (London). Hon. Secretaries: W. F. FELTON, M.B., D.P.H., D.I.H., "Ronuk " Works, Portslade, Sussex; T. D. SPENCER, M.D., GENERAL PRACTICE D.P.H., Divisional Medical Officer, National Coal Board, President: T. A. MORRISON, M.B.E., M.A., M.B., Ch.B. North-Eastern Division, Medical Service, The Lodge, South (Brighton). Parade, Doncaster. Vice-Presidents: G. F. ABERCROMBIE, V.R.D., M.D. Official Repor-ter: Dr. LESLEY BIDSTRUP. (London); G. 0. BARBER, O.B.E., M.B., Ch.B. (Great Dunmow); J. INGLIS CAMERON, M.B., Ch.B., F.R.F.P.S. Session (Glasgow); JOHN CUMMING, M.B., Ch.B. (Hove); RALPH Red Drawing-room. GREEN, M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P. (Hassocks); W. G. THWAITES, Friday, July 13.--2.30 p.m., Occupational Radioactivity M.B., B.S. (Brighton); C. W. WALKER, M.B., Ch.B. (Cam- and the General Practitioner: (1) Sir ERNEST ROCK CARLING, bridge). Consultant Adviser to Home Office and Ministry of Supply; Hon. Secretaries: D. ARCHDALE-SMITH, M.B., B.S., Rogate, (2) Mr. W. BINKs, Director, Radiological Protection Service; 63, Surrenden Road, Brighton, 6; JOHN FRY, M.B., F.R.C.S., (3) Dr. A. S. McLEAN, P.M.O., U.K. Atomic Energy 36, Croydon Road, Beckenham, Kent. Authority. Official Reporter: Dr. JOHN FRY. OPHTHALMOLOGY President: C. G. SCHURR, F.R.C.S.Ed. (Brighton). Sessions Vice-Presidents: JOHN FOSTER, M.D., F.R.C.S.. D.O.M.S., Music Room. (Leeds); T. KEITH LYLE, C.B.E., M.D., M.R.C.P., F.R.C.S. Monday, Jluly 9.-3 p.m., The Education of the General (London); J. P. SPENCER WALKER, M.B., B.Ch. (Brighton). Practitioner: (1) Dr. RAYMOND WHITEHEAD (Manchester), Honi. Secretaries: H. E. HOBBS, F.R.C.S., D.O., 46, Wim- on basic medical education in this country: (2) Dr. C. P. D. pole Street, London, W.1 ; B. THORNE THORNE, M.B., B.Ch., GRANT (Glasgow), on the results of education as seen by a M.R.C.P., D.O., 2, Palmeira Court, Palmeira Square, Hove, young general practitioner; (3) Dr. R. A. DAVISON 3, Sussex. (Tennessee, U.S.A.), on educating the undergraduate I or Official Reporter: Mr. K. C. WYBAR. general practice in the U.S.A.; (4) Dr. G. 0. BARBER (Gt. Dunmow), on postgraduate education in general practice in Session this country. Conference Room III (Chess Room). Banqueting Room. Tuesday, July IO.-9.30 a.m., Modern Trends in Surgery Tuesday, Julv lO.-9.30 a.m., Common Infectious Diseases of Cataract. To be opened by Mr. JOHN FOSTER (Leeds), as Observed in General Practice: Clinical, Dr. G. I. Mr. K. C. WYBAR (London), and Mr. A. H. OSMOND WATSON (Peaslake); Hospital, Dr. L. LENNHOFF (Brighton); (Brighton). Occasional Papers: (1) Visual Aids for Partially SUPPLEMENT To THE 314 MAY 26, 1956 ANNUAL MEETING: PROGRAMME BRITIH MEDICAL JOURNAL *Sighted, Mr. P. M. MOFFATT (London); (2) Complicated Clinical Picture and Special Methods of Diagnosis, Dr. T. M. Obstructive Epiphora and Lacrimal Adenectomy, Mr. B. W. CHALMERS (London); (4) Argentaffinoma and 5-Hydroxy- RYCROFT (London); (3) Cortisone in Ophthalmology, Mr. tryptamine : General and Vascular Effects, Special Methods CHARLES COOK (London). of Diagnosis, Dr. R. S. STACEY (London); (5) Pathology of the Above Conditions, Professor DOROTHY RUSSELL ORTHOPAEDICS (London). President: S. L. HIGGS, M.B., F.R.C.S. (London). PHYSICAL MEDICINE Vice-Presidents: W. D. COLTART, M.B., F.R.C.S. (Lon- President. DONALD WILSON, M.B., M.R.C.P. (Bognor don); G. K. MCKEE, F.R.C.S. (Norwich); K. H. PRIDIE, Regis). M.B., F.R.C.S. (Bristol); T. T. STAMM, M.B., F.R.C.S. Vice-Presidents: F. S. COOKSEY, O.B.E., M.D., M.R.C.P., (London). D.Phys.Med. (London); G. D. KERSLEY, T.D., M.D., Honi. Secretaries: J. M. FIrrON, M.B.E., M.B., F.R.C.S., F.R.C.P. (Bath); KENNETH N. LLOYD, M.B., M.R.C.P. :20. Clarendon Road, Leeds, 2; J. C. F. LLOYD WILLIAMSON, (Cardiff); REGINALD W. WINDLE, M.D., D.Phys.Med. M.D., F.R.C.S., 34, The Drive, Hove, Sussex. (Brighton). Hon. Secretaries: F. M. M. EYTON-JONES, M.D., M.R.C.P., Session D.P.H., 7, Preston Park Avenue, Brighton, 6; B. E. W. Queen's Bedroom. MACE, M.B., M.R.C.P., 15, Radcliffe Road, Croydon, Surrey. Wednesday, July 11.-2.30 p.m., (1) The Role of Surgery Official Reporter: Dr. A. T. RICHARDSON. in Treatment of Spastic Children and Adolescents, Mr. STANLEY EVANS (Alton); (2) The Painful Shoulder, Mr. F. A. Session SIMMONDS (London) and Mr. G. BLUNDELL JONES (Exeter); Banqueting Room. (3) The Structural Effects of Stress, Mr. J. C. ScoTT Friday, July 13.-2.30 p.m., Therapeutic Aspects of Rheu- (Oxford); (4) Foot-form, Function and Footwear in the matoid Arthritis; Principal Speaker, Dr. G. D. KERSLEY Young, Mr. W. SAYLE-CREER (Manchester) and Mr. W. H. (Bath). 2.45 p.m., Home Management of Rheumatoid GERVIS (Tunbridge Wells); (5) Management of Common Arthritis: Principal Speaker, Dr. A. C. BOYLE (London); Knee Injuries, Mr. A. T. FRIPP (London) Invited Speaker, Dr. B. E. W. MACE (Croydon). 3.10 p.m., Rehabilitation of Rheumatoid Arthritis: Principal Speaker, OTO-RHINO-LARYNGOLOGY Dr. F. S. COOKSEY (London); Invited Speaker, Dr. D. A. Presidenit: T. S. ALLEN, F.R.C.S.Ed. (Brighton). BREWERTON (London). 3.35 p.m., Discussion, followed by Vice-Presidents*: G. A. FRASER, M.B., Ch.B., D.L.O. Tea. 4.05 p.m., Hemiplegia. Physical Treatment in the (Brighton); W. A. MILL, M.S., F.R.C.S. (London); T. G. Early Stages: Principal Speaker, Dr. KENNETH N. LLOYD WILSON, M.13., Litt.D., F.R.C.S.I. (Dublin). (Cardiff); Invited Speaker, Dr. G. 0. STOREY (London). Hon. Secretaries: COLIN M. JOHNSTON, M.B., B.S., B.D.S., 4.35 p.m., Hemiplegia. Home Management: Principal D.L.O., White Lodge, Faringdon, Berks; P. V. WADSWORTH, Speaker, Dr. W. RUSSELL GRANT (Winchester); Invited Avenue, Hove, 3, Sussex. Speaker, Dr. H. J. GLANVILLE (Salisbury). 5.05 p.m., Dis- B.M., F.R.C.S., 23, Palmeira cussion. 5.30 p.m., Occasional Paper: Osteoarthritis, Its Official Reporier: Mr. C. M. JOHNSTON. Prediction and Correction, Dr. ESTHER TUTTLE (Physician Session to St. Clare's Hospital, New York). Queen's Bedroom. Tuesday, July lO.-9.30 a.m., Nasal Obstruction. To be PLASTIC SURGERY opened by Mr. T. G. WILSON (Dublin), followed by Mr. President: Sir ARCHIBALD MCINDOE, C.B.E., M.Sc.. M.S., F. C. W. CAPPS (London) and Mr. E. MILLINGTON F.R.C.S., F.A.C.S. (London). (Brighton). 11.30 a.m., Hoarseness. To be opened by Mr. Vice-Presidents: Sir WILLIAM KELSEY FRY, C.B.E., M.C., W. A. MILL (London), followed by Mr. J. F. LiPSCOMB F.R.C.S., F.D.S. R.C.S. (London); RAINSFORD MOWLEM, (Farnborough). M.B., F.R.C.S. (London); MICHAEL W. C. OLDFIELD, M.B.E., D.M., M.Ch., F.R.C.S. (Leeds). PATHOLOGY Hon. Secretaries: H. ELLIOTT BLAKE, M.A., F.R.C.S., 55, President: Professor DOROTHY S. RUSSELL, M.A., M.D., Harley Street, London, V.1 ; PERCY H. JAYES, M.B., F.R.C.P. (London). F.R.C.S., 149, Harley Street, London, W.I. Vice-Presidents: E. M. DARMADY, M.A., M.D., F.R.C.P. (Portsmouth); Professor ALEX. HADDOW, M.D., D.Sc., Ph.D. Session (London); A. GEOFFREY SHERA, M.A., M.D., B.Chir., The Plastic Surgical Section will be held at the Plastic M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P. (Eastbourne). Surgery Centre, Queen Victoria Hospital, East Grinstead, Hon. Secretaries: R. W. P. JOHNSON, M.B., Ch.B., Clerk's so that visiting medical staff may have the opportunity of Acre, Keymer Road, Hassocks, Sussex; A. G. MARSHALL, viewing the layout of a Plastic Surgical and Maxillo-facial M.A., M.D., Department of Pathology, the Royal Hospital, Centre at the same time as attending the lectures and demon- Wolverhampton. strations. Official Reporters: Dr. L. J. RUBINSTEIN (July 11), Dr. Buses will be available for transport to and from Brighton, WALTER MERIVALE (July 12). and luncheon provided at the hospital; the names of those wishing to attend should therefore be given in advance to Sessions the secretaries so that the necessary arrangements for trans- Conference Room III. port and lunch can be made. Wednesday, July 11.-2.30 p.m., Fungous Diseases in Man, Tuesday, Jluly 1O.- 1-12.30 p.m., Operations in theatres, Dr. R. W. RIDDELL (London), Professor W. SYMMERS clinical cases for review, and films demonstrating opera- (London), and Dr. L. J. RUBINSTEIN (London). tions, hypotensive anaesthesia, physiotherapy, etc., will be Thursday, Jluly 12.-9.30 a.m., The Detection of Endo- shown. 12.30 p.m., Break for lunch. 2 p.m., Paper on crine Tumours Causing Hypertension or Other Circula.ary Rodent Ulcers by Sir ARCHIBALD MCINDOE (London), illus- Disturbances: (1) Phaeochromocytoma, Clinical Picture and trated with slides. 2.30 p.m., Paper on Treatment of Com- Special Methods of Diagnosis, Professor M. L. ROSENHEIM mon Injuries of the Face and Hands by Mr. RAINSFORD (London); (2) Cushing's Syndrome and Hypertension, MOWLEM (London), illustrated with slides. 3 p.m., Paper Clinical Picture and Special Methods of Diagnosis, Dr. R. I. on the Plastic Surgical Treatment of Certain Congenital BAYLISS (London); (3) Conn's Syndrome-Aldosteronism, Deformities by Mr. ELLIOTT BLAKE (London), illustrated with slides. 3.30 p.m.. " Any Questions ? " Panel: Pro- * The late Dr. Harold Downer was originally appointed a Vice-President. fessor T. POMFRET KILNER (Oxford) (chairman), Sir SUPPLEMENT TO THE MAY 26, 1956 ANNUAL MEETING: PROGRAMME BRITisi MIEDICAL JOURNAL 315 ARCHIBALD MCINDOE (London), Sir WILLIAM KELSEY FRY Eastbourne Hospital Group. Spirochaetal dysentery. (London), Mr. MICHAEL OLDFIELD (Leeds), Mr. RAINSFORD London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine. The MOWLEM (London), and Mr. P. H. JAYES (London). 4 p.m., history of the medical officer of health during the past one Tea. 4.30 p.m., Return to Brighton. hundred years. Royal Marsden Hospital. Irradiation of the pituitary PREVENTIVE MEDICINE with radioactive isotopes, using the image intensifier. Royal Marsden Hospital. (a) Gold grain implants. President: JEAN M. MACKINTOSH, M.D., D.P.H. (Birming- (b) Caesium teletherapy unit. ham). Royal Marsden Hospital. Carcinoma of the breast: Vice-Presidenits: F. LANGFORD, M.13., F.R.C.S., D.P.H. natural history of incidence; diagnosis and clinical staging; (Lewes); J. A. SCOTT, O.B.E.. M.D., M.R.C.P., D.P.H. radical treatment; treatment of the late case. (London); Professor ANDREW B. SEMPLE. V.R.D.. M.D., The Gordon Hospital for Gastro-Intestinal Diseases. D.P.H. (Liverpool); J. B. TILLEY, M.D., D.P.H. (Newcastle- Ulcerative colitis. upon-Tyne). Department of Medical Illustration, University of Glasgow, Hon Secretaries: WILFRID G. HARDING, M.R.C.S., in collaboration with Departments of Surgery, Ophthalmo- L.R.C.P., D.P.H., Divisional Health Office, Fairfield Street, logy, Wandsworth, London, S.W.18; W. S. PARKER, M.B.. Ch.B., and Pathology, Western Infirmary. Destroying the D.P.H., D.I.H., Health Department, Royal York Buildings, pituitary gland in the treatment of advanced breast cancer. Brighton, 1. Nuffield Department of Plastic Surgery, University of Official Reporter: Dr. W. G. HARDING. Oxford. Congenital deformities in infants and children and their correction. Department of Anatomy, Charing Cross Hospital Medical Sessions School, and Institute of Diseases of the Chest, Brompton .Conference Room l. Hospital. The variation in the peripheral pattern in the Thursday, Jiuly 12.-9.30 a.m.. Contribution of Preventive normal bronchogram. Health Services to the Efficiency of Hospital Practice, Dr. Allergy Clinic, Wright-Fleming Institute, St. Mary's J. F. GALLOWAY (Wolverhampton), Dr. A. TALBOT ROGERS Hospital. Allergic phenomena in sensitivity to insects. (Bromley), Mr. R. L. NEWELL (Manchestcr). Joint Urological Clinic, Royal Marsden, St. Peter's, Friday, July 13-2.30 p.m., Ascertainment and Manage- St. Paul's, and St. Philip's Hospitals. Symptoms of bladder ment of Defective Hearing in the Very Young, Mr. tumours, types of tumours, classification, recent advances in NORMAN LLOYD CRABTREE (Birmingham), Dr. E. B. BERENICE treatment. HUMPHREYS (Leicester). St. Peter's, St. Paul's, and St. Philip's Hospitals in conjunc- tion with the Institute of Urology. The results of prostatic PSYCHIATRY obstruction. President: HENRY V. DICKS. M.D., F.R.C.P. (London). St. Mary's Hospital Surgical Unit. The use of polyvinyl Vice-Presidents: C. LAMORNA HINGSTON, M.B.E., alcohol sponge for the replacement of blood vessels. M.R.C.S., L.R.C.P., D.P.M. (Brighton); KENNETH SODDY, Harefield Hospital and Institute of Urology. Modern M.D., D.P.M. (London); ISAAC SurrON, M.D., D.P.M. treatment of geniti-urinary tuberculosis. (Leeds). Departments of Surgery and Urology, Glasgow Royal Hon. Secretaries: GERALD GARMANY, M.B., M.R.C.P., Infirmary. The value of arteriography and aortography in D.P.M., 51, Harley Street, London. W.1 ; F. TINDALE SHAD- the diagnosis of surgical and urological conditions. FORTH, L.R.C.P., L.R.C.S., L.R.F.P.S., D.P.M., Shannon Postgraduate Medical School, University of London. A House, 45, Dyke Road Avenue. Hove, 4, Sussex. machine designed to replace temporarily the heart and lungs Official Reporter: Dr. KENNETH SODDY. in order that surgery may be carried out under direct vision within the heart chambers. Session Bernhard Baron Memorial Research Laboratories, Queen Music Room. Charlotte's Maternity Hospital, and Institute of Obstetrics Friday, Jllv 13-2.30 p.m., Psychotherapy and the and Gynaecology, University of London. Hyaline mem- General Practitioner, Dr. M. BALINT (London), Dr. P. R. brane in neonatal lungs. SAVILLE (London), Dr. A. R. MAY (London). General Medical Practice. (1) Pre-coeliac syndrome. (2) Headache-insomnia-depression syndrome. SCIENTIFIC EXHIBITION College of General Practitioners. (1) Epidemiological re- search in general practice. (2) Acute chest investigations in Corn Exchange, July 9-13 general practice. (3) Prophylactic antibiotic, and chemo- The Exhibition will be open each day at 9 a.m. and will therapy in measles. close on the first three days at 6 p.m. and on the last two General Medical Practice. Two "holding-splints " de- at 5 p.m. signed to keep paralysed limbs immobile in an optimum The following list gives brief details of the exhibits corrected position in order that a general practitioner work- Royal Air Force Medical Branch. Aviation medicine- ing alone may apply specially designed plaster-of-Paris or applied physiology. The Martin-Baker ejection seat, aircrew plastic cock-up splints. equipment, and ear defenders. Royal Sussex County Hospitals, Brighton. Aids for the Norfolk and Norwich Hospital. Traction-manipulation disabled. of disk lesions. Plastic material for direct application to Sussex Eye Hospital. Transparent acrylic implants and patients. Plastic disk supports before and after making-up. trephines. Contact lenses. St. Dunstan's. Rehabilitation and occupations for blinded Department of Medical Illustration, Manchester Royal ex-Service men and women. Infirmary. (1) In conjunction with the Department of Sur- Royal Navy Medical School and Royal Navy Physio- gery. Exhibit A, The management of patients with haemor- logical Laboratory, Alverstoke, Hants. Development of the rhage from oesophageal varices. The mechanism of hepatic methods of sLibmarine escape. coma, and its prevention. (2) In conjunction with the De- Royal Free Hospital and Medical Research Council V.D. partment of Orthopaedic Surgery. Exhibit B, Supracondylar Reference Laboratory. Charts and data of the occurrence fractures in children: A new concept of the mechanism of of non-specific reactions with standard serum tests for this fracture and its reduction. (3) In conjunction with the syphilis and the application of tests using treponemal Manchester Royal Eve Hospital. Exhibit C, Ocular injuries: antigens or their elucidation. a survey of their causes, management, complications, and Leeds Medical School and General Infirmary. Laboratory results. (4) In conjunction with the Department of Surgery. investigations of fungous diseases. Exhibit D, OCclusive arterial disease. An arteriographic SUPPLEMENT TO THE 316 MAY 26, 1956 ANNUAL MEETING: PROGRAMME BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL investigation of occlusive disease in the lower extremity, 38.-Allen and Hanburys Ltd. illustrating the pathological anatomy and progress of the 39.-Imperial Chemical (Pharmaceuticals) Ltd. 40.-British Drug Houses Ltd. disease. The natural history of arteriosclerotic disease of 41.-Chas. F. Thackray Ltd. the lower extremities. 42.-Burroughs Wellcome and Co. Department of Radiology, the United Cardiff Hospitals, 43.-May and Baker Ltd. Cardiff. Advances in the diagnosis of the biliary system. 44.-Reckitt and Colman Ltd. Westminster Hospital Medical School. A histopathologi- 45.-Butterworth and Co. Ltd. cal study to provide evidence that the plaques which cause 46.-Cyanamid Products Ltd. coronary occlusion are organized mural thrombi and not 47.-Vitamins Ltd. 48.-C. Davis Keeler Ltd. lipid infiltration. 49.-Bailliere, Tindall and Cox Ltd. South London Transfusion Centre. A panel tracing ante- 50.-Medical Press. natal blood specimens through the various tests for ABO 51.-E. and S. Livingstone Ltd. and Rh groupings. 52.-The Practitioner. Canadian Red Cross Memorial Hospital, Taplow, Bucks. 53.-Ames Co. Ltd. The chemical basis of experimenital allergic encephalo- 54.-National Association for the Prevention of Tuberculosis. myelitis. 55.-British Medical Association Publications. Royal Eye Unit, Lambeth Hospital, Annie McCall 56.-Family Doctor. Maternity Hospital. (1) Sedation for ophthalmic surgery- a new method combining induced sleep with phenothiazine TIME-TABLE OF MEETINGS derivatives and local analgesia. (2) Promethazine as a R.-Events available for members of Representative Body and supplement to pethidine in obstetrical analgesia. (3) A Ladies accompanying them. new approach to pre-operative sedation, based on the use L.-Events primarily arranged for Ladies. of phenothiazine derivatives combined with opiates and U.-Events for all Members and Ladies accompanying them. hvpnotics. *Academic Robes should be worn. Charing Cross Hospital Division of Medicine and Depart- Wednesday, July 4 ment of Anaesthetics. Control of blood pressure. 4.30 to 6.30 p.m.-Annual Representative Meeting Inquiry Office Sussex Throat and Ear Hospital. Audiometric methods open at the Dome Entrance Hall. in hearing. 4.30 to 6.30 p.m.-Ladies' Club open, Octagon Room, Hotel St. Albans City Hospital. Dental abscess in skull found Metropole. near St. Albans, dating from A.D. 300 to 400. 8.30 to 10.30 p.m.-R. Cocktail Party (by invitation of the Brighton Division), Hotel Metropole. SPECIAL EXHIBITIONS Thiursday, July 5 Corn Exchange, July 9-13 9.00 a.m.-Annual Representative Meeting Inquiry Office open at the Dome Entrance Hall. The Pharmaceutical Society of Great Britain. (1) The 9.00 a.m.-Ladies' Club open, Octagon Room, Hotel Metropole. pharmacy of some hypotensive drugs, including rauwolfia, 10.00 a.m.-Annual Representative Meeting starts, the Dome. veratrum, Ind certain synthetic compounds. (2) Pharma- 11.00 a.m.-Welcome by the Mayor of Brighton to Annual ceutical historical equipment. Representative Meeting. Association of the British Pharmaceutical Industry. 11.00 a.m.-Coffee Party given by English-Speaking Union for Exhibit of the British Pharmaceutical Industry. Overseas Ladies, 44, Wilbury Road, Hove. 11.00 a.m.-L. Coffee Party at 21, Shirley Drive, Hove, by kind invitation of Mrs. J. H. Garner Howe (for 40). EXHIBITION OF PHARMACEUTICAL 2.00 to 6.00 p.m.-Afternoon Tour to Beachy Head and East- PRODUCTS, INSTRUMENTS, APPLIANCES, bourne, returning via Lewes. (Tea at Grand Hotel by kind invitation of the Eastbourne Division.) (For AND MEDICAL PUBLICATIONS 60.) Inclusive ticket, 6s. List of Exhibitors with Stand Numbers 7.30 p.m.-R. Representatives' Dinner, Cafe Anglais, Hotel Metropole. Ticket 25s., including aperitifs. A more detailed account of this Exhibition will be given later. 7.30 p.m.-L. Representatives' Ladies' Dinner, Clarence Room, 1.-Benger Laboratories Ltd. Hotel Metropole. Ticket 30s., including aperitifs 2.-S. H. Camp and Co. Ltd. and wine. 3.-Camden Chemical Co. Ltd. 9.30 p.m. to 12.30 a.m.-R. Representatives' Dance, Winter "4.-Edward Taylor Ltd. Hotel Ticket 10s. 5.-C. L. Bencard Ltd. Garden, Metropole. 6.-Energen Food Co. Ltd. Friday, July 6 7.-Rayner and Keeler Ltd. 9.00 a.m.-Annual Representative Meeting Inquiry Office open. 8.-John Wyeth and Bro. Ltd. 9.30 a.m.-Ladies' Club open. 9.-British Oxygen Gases (Med. Div.). 9.30 a.m.-Annual Representative Meeting. 11.-Calmic Ltd. 10.45 a.m. to 6.15 p.m.-All-day tour. Morning visit to Parham 12.-London Hospital (Ligature Department) Ltd. House. Luncheon at Pulborough. Tea at King 13.-Marmite Ltd. Edward VII Sanatorium, Midhurst (by invitation of 14.-Down Bros. and Mayer and Phelps Ltd. Sir Geoffrey Todd, Medical Superintendent, and the 15.-N.O.T.B. Association. hospital management committee). Inclusive ticket 16.-Ciba Laboratories Ltd. 18s. 6d. (For 60.) 18.-Roche Products Ltd. 11.00 a.m.-L. Visit to Preston Manor, Brighton. 19.-Ethicon Suture Laboratories Ltd. 1.00 p.m.-Overseas Luncheon, Royal Albion Hotel. 20.-Smith and Nephew Ltd. 3.00 p.m.-L. Visit to Preston Manor, Brighton. 22.-Eli Lilly and Co. Ltd 5.30 p.m.-R. Glyndebourne Opera (see note on p. 311). 23.-Parke, Davis and Co. Ltd. 5.30 p.m.-Cocktail Party for Women Representatives and 24.-Bayer Products Ltd. medical women accompanying Representatives, New 25.-H. K. Lewis and Co. Ltd. Sussex Hospital for Women, Windlesham Road, 27.-Glaxo Laboratories Ltd. Brighton (by invitation of the Sussex Association of 28.-Oxford University Press. the Medical Women's Federation). 29.-Board of Registration of Medical Auxiliaries. 7.30 p.m.-Welsh Dinner, Royal Pavilion Hotel, Castle Square, 30.-Paines and Byrne Ltd. Brighton. Ticket 25s. 31.-Distillers Company (Biochemicals). p.m.-R. Theatre (tickets will be arranged for the Theatre 32.-Cow and Gate Ltd. Royal and Brighton Hippodrome). 33.-Sandoz Products Ltd. 34.-Menley and James Ltd. Saturday, July 7 35.-Crookes Laboratories Ltd. 9.00 a.m.-Annual Representative Meeting Inquiry Office open. 36.-Ortho Pharmaceutical Ltd. 9.00 a.m.-Coluncit Meeting, Red Drawing Room, Royal 37.-G. D. Searle and Co. Ltd. Pavilion. SUPPLEMENT TO THE 317 MIAY 26, 1956 ANNUAL MEETING: PROGRAMME BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL 9.30 a.m.-Ladies' Club openi. 9.00 to 10.00 a.m.-Round-table Conferences, Royal Pavilion. 10.00 a.m.-Annuiiial Represenitative Meeting. 9.30 a.m.-Ladies' Club open. 3.00 p.m.-L. Visit to Cowdray Park for polo. 9.30 a.m. to 6.15 p.m.-All-day tour to Hastings and Burwash. 4.00 p.m.-L. Garden Party by kind invitation of Dr. and Mrs. Coffee at the Town Hall, by kind invitation of the C. Barrington Prowse, at Hyde Manor, Kingston, Mayor of Hastings, followed by tour of Hastings. near Lewes. (For 60.) Luncheon at Addison's Restaurant. Visit to Bate- 7.00 for 7.30 p.m.-EdinbtLrgh Graduates' Dinner, Royal mans, Rudyard Kipling's house at Burwash. Tea at Pavilioni Hotel, Castle Square, Brighton. Ticket Burwash, by kind invitation of the Hastings Division. 27s. 6d. Transport ticket, 9s. (luncheon niot included). (For 7 45 fo- 8.30 p.m.-Glasgow Graduates' Dinner, Dudley Hotel, 60.) Lansdowne Place, Hove. Ticket 30s. 10.00 a.m.-Leinster and Childe Cup Golf Competition, West Sussex Golf Course, Pulborough. 10.00 a.m.-L. Notts Ladies' Challenge Cup Golf Competition, Sunday, July 8 East Brighton Golf Course. 9.30 a m. to 6.00 p.m.-R. All-day steamer trip from Ports- 10.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.-Scienztific Plentary Session, the Dome; mouth round the Isle of Wight. Train from " Recent Advances in the Knowledge of Cancer." Brighton to Portsmouth Harbour. Depart on 2.30 p.m.-Overseas Conference, Primrose Room, Hotel steamer 11 a.m. Cruise in sheltered waters of Metropole. Solent, etc. Leave Portsmouth Harbour for 2.30 to 5.30 p.m.-Scientific Sectionns, Royal Pavilion. Brighton 4.50 p.m. Packed lunch and tea will be 2.30 to 3.30 p.m.-President and Party, Official Tour of Scien- served on the steamer. Tickets 32s. 6d., inclusive tific Exhibition, Corn Exchange. of meals and transport. (For 350.) 3.00 p.m.-L. Visit to Preston Manor, Brighton. 11.30 a.m. for 12 noon.-* Robing for Roman Catholic service 5.00 p.m.-" At Home " for Overseas Visitors given by the St. Joseph's School. Mass for Roman Catholic Empire Medical Advisory Bureau, Hotel Metropole. doctors at St. Joseph's Church, Elm Grove, Brighton, 8.30 p.m. to 12 midnight.-U.* Civic Reception and Ball, Royal followed by Reception at Royal Pavilion, by invita- Pavilion. tion of the Sussex Branch of the Guild of SS. Luke, Cosmas, and Damian. Thursday, July 12 1.00 for 1.30 p.m.-Luncheon at the Royal Pavilion Hotel, 8.15 a.m.-Annual Breakfast of the Christian Medical Fellow- Castle Square, Brighton. Ticket 7s. 6d. ship, Hotel Metropole. 8.00 to 10.00 p.m.-Concert by the Southern Philharmonic 9.00 a.m.-Reception Bureau open for registration, Corn Orchestra, conductor, Herbert Menges, at the Dome. Exchange. (Sponsored by Ciba Laboratories Ltd., Horsham.) 9.00 a.m.-Scientific Exhibition open, Corn Exchange. 9.00 a.m.-Exhibition of Pharmaceutical Products, Instruments, Monday, Jiuly 9 Appliances, and Medical Publications open, Corn 9.00 a.m.-Annual Representative Meeting Inquiry Office open. Exchange. '3.00 a.m.-Scientific Exhibition opens at Corn Exchange. 9.30 a.m.-Ladies' Club open. 9.00 a.m.-Exhibition of Pharmaceutical Products, Instruments, 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.-Scientific Sections, Royal Pavilion. Appliances, and Medical Publications opens at the 10.00 a.m.-Treasurer's Cup Golf Competition, West Sussex Golf Corn Exchange. Course, Pulborough. 9.00 a.m.-Reception Bureau for Registration opens at the Corn 2.15 to 6.15 p.m.-L. Afternoon tour to Arundel Castle. Tea Exchange. by kind invitation of the Worthing Division. Ticket 9.30 a.m.-Ladies' Club open, Octagon Room, Hotel Metropole. 8s. 6d. (For 60.) 10.00 a.m.-Annual Representative Meeting. 2.30 to 5.00 p.m.-Scientific Plenary Session, the Dome: "The 12.30 p.m.-Annual General Meeting, the Dome. Present Position of A.C.T.H. and Cortisone." p.m.-Council Meeting, Red Drawing Room, Royal 3.30 p.m.-U. Garden Party, by kind invitation of Dr. Octavia Pavilion (on conclusion of A.R.M.). Wilberforce and the management committee, at 2.00 to 6.00 p.m.-L. Afternoon tour to Glynde and Firle Backsettown, Henfield. (For 50.) Place, Lewes, returning via Alfriston and Newhaven. 9.00 p.m.-U. B.M.A. Supper-Dance, Hotel Metropole. Tea at Glynde Place. Inclusive ticket, Ils. 6d. Ticket 20s. (For 60.) 13 3.00 p.m.-Special Sessionz of Sectioni of General Practice: Friday, July "The Education of the General Practitioner "- 9.00 a.m.-Reception Bureau open for registration, Corn Music Room, Royal Pavilion. Exchange. 8.15 p.m.-U.* Adjourned Anniual Genercal Meetinig anid Presi- 9.00 a.m.-Scientific Exhibition open, Corn Exchange. denit's Address, the Dome. 9.00 a.m.-Exhibition of Pharmaceutical Products, Instrumenits, 9.30 p.m.-U.* President's Reception, Royal Pavilion. Appliances, and Medical Publications open, Corn Exchange. 9.30 a.m.-Ladies' Club open. Tuesday, July 10 9.30 a.m. to 12 noon.-Scientific Plenary Session, the Dome: 9.00 a.m.-Reception Bureau open for registration, Corn " Handicapped Children." Exchange. 2.30 to 5.30 p.m.-Scientific Sections, Royal Pavilion. 9.00 a.m.-Scientific Exhibition openi, Corn Exchange. 9.00 a.m.-Exhibition of Pharmaceutical Products, Instruments, Appliances, and Medical Publications open, Corn Exchange. 9.30 a.m.-Ladies' Club open. HEREFORDSHIRE DIVISION 9.30 a.m. to 12.30 p.m.-Scienitific Sections, Royal Pavilion. 2.00 p.m.-Robing for Religious Service, St. Peter's Church MAYORAL RECEPTION Hall. The of Mrs. J. entertained 2.30 p.m.-U.* Official Religious Service, St. Peter's Church. Mayor Hereford, Ainslie, J.P., 7.30 p.m.-U. Annual Dinner, Hotel Metropole. (For 335.) the members of the Herefordshire Division and their ladies Ticket £2 l0s., including cocktails, wines, and at a reception at the Town Hall on the afternoon of May 3. liqueurs (see note on p. 310). Mrs. Ainslie's husband, Mr. William Ainslie, has been practising in the City of Hereford since 1899. He is at present Chief Steward of Hereford and was also host at Wednesday, Jutly 11 the reception. 9.00 a.m.-Reception Bureau open for registration, Corn Exchange. Over 100 guests were present, and great interest was shown 9.00 a.m.-Scientific Exhibition open, Corn Exchange. in a demonstration of the City plate and charters by the 9.00 a.m.-Exhibition of Pharmaceutical Products, Instruments, Deputy Town Clerk. Among the guests were the Chairman Appliances, and Medical Publications open, Corn of the Hereford Division, Dr. W. A. Jack, and the Chairman Exchange. of the Worcester and Bromsgrove Division, Dr. H. M. Miles. SUPPLEMENT TO THE 318 MAY 1956 NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE 1956 SERVICE 318 MAY 26, BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL pent facilitate co-operation and team-work ? Or would REFLECTIONS UPON THE NATIONAL they bring loss of freedom, whole-time salaried subordination HEALTH SERVICE* and so forth, nearer ? Are we inevitably going to feel upon us, in general prac- BY tice as elsewhere, more and more the hand of central planners as time goes by, or will professional efforts, together T. ROWLAND HILL, M.D., F.R.C.P. with wisdom and restraint at the centre, permit much peri- Physician, West End Hospital for Neurology and pheral devolution to appear ? The general practitioner is Neurosurgery, and Southend General Hospital; late the most fortunately placed of all of us here-apprehension Chairman, Central Consultants and Specialists Committee in the hospital world must be stronger. The cost of the N.H.S. amounts to one-tenth of the national income and I wish to emphasize the extreme difficulty of attempt- must therefore inescapably be of daily concern to the ing confidently to prophesy how our medical services Treasury, Government, and Parliament. Is all this public are going to evolve in the future. The more contact one ventilation to the advantage of medical efficiency, or will has with them the more complex do the issues, and the political dangers make us gradually adopt a prudent policy forces and influences at work, become. Perhaps the of safety first ? Will such a sadly unenterprising policy difficult of all is not so much follow the apparent increased risk of legal action by patients most thing correctly to and by the change in public opinion towards the doctor that prophesy what is likely to come about as what should seem to have accompanied the introduction of the National come about. Health Service ? How deep and permanent is this change in public feeling; this apparent loss of public respect and Some Questions affection; this impression felt by many of us that the.public What is going to be the future of general practice ? In now look upon us with some contempt and aim at getting what direction is it going to develop ? Will something halt from us their money's worth in return for their National the present tendencies and will the general practitioner again Insurance contributions and their taxes ? become technically more and more skilled, and in due course These questions are but a few of the imponderables that take on more and more clinical responsibility ? Will his now face us, and there are many more affecting particularly connexion with the hospital service begin to increase, the public health and hospital services. together with his opportunities for using ancillary diagnostic aids in the home or the surgery; or, in spite of protests and Profession's Planning Machinery efforts, are things destined inevitably to move the other way One must hope that interest in planning in the National so that the general practitioner of the future, intensely busy Health Service will be widespread in our profession in the with a large list, will help his patients most usefully by the future and not just left to a few except in moments efficiency and speed with which he calls the appropriate of acute crisis. The practising of a profession and the specialists and their hospitals to his aid ? administration of it should be done by the same people. We The answer does not rest wholly with the planners. It must never accept the position that because the clinician is depends largely upon the outlook and the wishes of the next a gifted physician or surgeon he is in some special way dis- generation of men entering general practice. Will they have qualified from the planning or the administration of his and very different standards and ideals from their predecessors, his colleagues' work and of the Service. If we falter on this, when the vast majority of them will be the products of State- all real influence in directing the future fortunes of our own education, wholly paid for by the State ? Will the general profession and the Service will pass from our profession's practitioner of the future insist upon independent practice, hands. We should keep our own professional thinking, plan- either single-handed or in partnership, in the National ning, and negotiating machinery under constant review. One Health Service, or will he incline more to teamwork with of the great dangers that have faced us here is self- other branches of the profession and with his colleagues in complacency; to be content with less than the best. For group-practice ? Which direction of evolution will be best this reason I was pleased when the British Medical Associa- for him, for medicine, and for public welfare ? None of tion at its Annual Meeting at Cardiff in 1953 appointed a these is an easy question to answer. constitution committee to overhaul the whole of its organiza- Are we going to see the three main branches of our pro- tion specially from this point of view. At the present time fession grow more separate in the future, or shall we see our professional machinery seems to have grown too some process of either spontaneous or planned integration complex. of preventive medicine, general practice, and specialist As a broad principle I believe that, so far as the national medicine ? If so, what form should this integration take ? hospital service is concerned, those working in the service Will our professional idealism and self-discipline decline so should constitute committees of themselves within the service that gradually the standards to which we conform will be that should not only assist its working but also do the think- imposed upon us by others from without ? It seems that ing, planning, and negotiating. So far as general practice is more and more dependence upon public money may carry concerned this is, of course, just what the local medical with it this danger, so that we might sink gradually in the committees, which are fortunately statutorily recognized, are hierarchy of society into a subservient position. We have doing. known these fluctuations before. We can easily forget of It is at the centre that the highest standards of efficiency what recent growth-virtually less than a century old-is the should be insisted upon, and I think it is here that we need position of good social status that the general practitioner most to overhaul our machine. Our central professional attained. It was really a mid- and late Victorian achieve- bodies have tended of recent years to enlarge too much in ment. the interests of democracy and representativeness. They are Will the present methods of general-practitioner remunera- much larger than those of the American Medical Association. tion persist indefinitely, and are they the best for his efficiency They tend to encourage the rise of the exhibitionist windbag and contentment ? If he gets drawn into closer co-operation to prominence in our counsels. The late Dr. Alfred Cox with the hospital service would he find himself happier, and gives delightful examples of this in his little book of auto- less perhaps at the mercy of troublesome patients, if his biographical memoirs, and tells how ineffective such persons conditions of employment approximate more to those of his were in National Health Insurance days when they came consultant colleagues, and would such terms of employ- up against highly competent and hard-bitten Civil Service * Based on a B.M.A. lecture to the S.W. Essex Division of the negotiators. Similar stories could be told of more recent Association. negotiations. SUPPLEMENT TO THE 319 MAY 26, 1956 NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL extremely competent, although usually with distinct limita- Medical Committees tions. So often in our own circles we feel that we have only When the 1946 Act was implemented in 1948, the Ministly loudly to declaim what we feel and want and we have as of Health decided to staff the hospitals by the method used good as got it. Nothing could be further from the truth. in voluntary hospitals that is, by staffs of consultants all of equal stature. It might just as easily have decided to Co-ordination in the Service adopt instead the local authority system, with differences of rank, pay, and seniority between all senior members of the What should be done to increase unity of effort in the staff and with a medical man in a position -of supreme N.H.S. both between the different sections of our profession clinical and administrative authority. and between our profession and the non-medical workers of, especially, the hospital service ? I am not a great believer Having decided on the former method the Ministry of the did not that under the volun- in the cross-membership principle, partly because of Health emphasize sufficiently involved. A consultant who could afford the tary system the proper establishment and functioning of a loss of time time to a convened liaison committee hospital medical committee was essential to administration. attend specially joint concern is unable The profession should have insisted at the beginning of the with an agenda of matters of mutual quite the of the to spare a whole afternoon to sit through a local medical Service upon statutory recognition hospital committee meeting, where 900% of the business does not medical committee, parallel to that of the local medical com- it should be mittee and the hospital management committee. involve him. Where co-operation is desirable done the set liaison subcommittee. The basis for consultant planning and negotiation must be by specially up I think that in most districts the best dividends will come this hospital medical committee, which needs to function from having joint liaison committees between local health locally at whatever levels seem appropriate to the consul- and tants concerned. It is important that it should be constituted authority, executive'council, hospital management com- m ttee at administrative level and between local medical by the staff itself, and not appointed by a management com- medical and local health mittee or of governors. After medical committee, hospital committee, board constitution at level. Most of committees should be in regular contact and consultation authority medical staff the professional with their parallel administrative and executive bodies. It is these appear to be needed in the Metropolitan area. This type of liaison development is very necessary at board of very important that sound advisory committee machinery of board this kind should also exist at regional hospital board level. governors and regional hospital level, again chiefly in the Metropolitan area. From this committee structure at hospital management Will there be increased between boards of committee, regional hospital board, and board of governors separation governors and regional hospital boards, or will they one day level come the committee's representatives to the centre, and be ? Will the continue for here again, as with the general practitioners, exists the urgent amalgamated teaching hospitals ever on and a under economic need to maintain the order of and their own, is there danger, highest thinking, planning, of academic status under the negotiating efficiency. We need to be much more efficient stringency, declining regional hospital boards ? It was hoped in the beginning that than we are. The position is made more complex by the from absolute necessity of embodying representatives of the co-operation would be very close; that consultants for would have turns of ser- Royal Colleges in our organization. Difficulties are added peripheral hospitals, example, vice at the but little of this has been seen. to by the fact that we have to conduct financial negotiations teaching hospital, to separately from those on policy, the former taking place Some believe that a single health board should exist under the Whitley umbrella. There is urgent need to over- administer general practice, hospital and consultant work, an haul, strcamline, and tune-up our machine centrally, for we and public health work. This may well be over-simplifica- ought to be in a much stronger advisory position in relation tion at this stage. I think the liaison machinery I have out- to the Government than we in fact now find ourselves. We lined would be better, but that some development should should by this time have got ourselves into such a position take place soon is desirable. that the authorities automatically turn to our central repre- In the general-practitioner field the long-established heavy sentative organizations for all the medical advice, both professional' membership of the executive councils is presum- general and particular, that they require, and this is far ably adequate and secure. Matters are very different in the from being the case. hospital service, where consultant membership of the con- sultants' own hospital committees and boards is grossly Proper Influence inadequate and, worse still, appointed by unsatisfactory methods. Except in the case of teaching hospitals our pro- To sum up, it is essential for consultants to have at the fession has no right to appoint, or to have appointed, mem- centre a thinking, planning, and negotiating body, highly bers of its own choice, and the results have been deplorable. efficient, composed of our best men, in constant contact Our hospital boards and committees lack many of the with the Government, making its presence felt all the time; virtues of democratic responsibility in consequence. a body that no authority could possibly ignore, maintain- ing the proper influence of ouir profession over the hospital service. We can get this if we are clear in our minds that What We Want we must have it; without it, hospital medical staffs are in We are all aware of the Cinderella-like position of our much greater danger than their general-practitioner col- public health colleagues, with their income tied to that of leagues danger of subordination in policy formation and non-medical officials in local authority service and with their in administrative control to the other powerful interests in work shorn by the 1946 Act of much varied responsibility this section of thc Service, some of whom have a natural and that they had before. We must all agree that as many men human love of power-the non-medical members of boards in preventive medicine who could do it should be encouraged and committees and the non-medical hospital administrators, to continue clinical work also. More should be done in the and to some extent also the non-clinical medically qualified future to bring this about, and I suppose there bught to be administrators, whose interests, I fear, are not always quite some two-way changes. Is it a good thing that maternity identical with those of the clinician. services should have such divided responsibilities in their I must confess myself to be, at the moment, somewhat of administration ? Where is the real borderline between geri- a pessimist. Our whole training as doctors makes us marked atric services and Part III accommodation or between the individualists, and close, self-effacing co-operation is not work of the tuberculous physician in the hospital and in the easy for strong individualists. Government administrators, home ? although often narrow in their outlook, hard and realistic, Surely there is room for a considerable increase in public with a clear eye for economic and political realities rather money, provided from the centre rather than from local than a misty one for ethical idealism, are picked men and funds, to produce an enormous extension of home nursing SUPPLEMENT TO 320 MAY 26, 1956 NATIONAL HEALTH SERVICE BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNALTHE -~ ~ ~ ~ ~~~~RTS MEIA JORA services, of which the present ones should be regarded as both at the periphery and at the centre, is as strong and as mere skeletons. A much bigger home nursing service would perfect as possible. Then we should all give the maximum help the general practitioner to do more responsible medicine of loyal support and trust to that machine and avoid the in the home, to save (and here it would also save money) ever-present dangers of loudly voiced distrust, internal dis- pressure on hospital beds and to ease the problem of care sensions, and disunity. If first we work out what we want, *of the aged and the chronically disabled. and make sure that it is right, and if, secondly, we struggle I imagine that the real future of the public health medical implacably to get it, we shall be doing the best that is man lies in his closer identification with the other branches possible for ourselves, for medicine, and for the country. of the Service, especially perhaps the hospital service. The vast majority of our profession would not welcome develop- ments in the other direction-namely, the giving by amending Acts of more power to local authorities; in N.H.S. matters, CONFERENCE OF HONIORARY SECRETARIES for example, handing back hospitals to them, as Mr. Bevan PROBLEMS OF THE DIVISIONS in his later years has suggested. The Conference of Honorary Secretaries of Divisions and How much can the general practitioner spread the interest Branches, held at B.M.A. House, London, on May 11. was of his work into the preventive and hospital fields, and how probably the best attended in the history of this event. can his skills be maintained ? I am a believer myself in a The chair was taken by Dr. R. B. L. RIDGE, joint honorary really long spell of responsible hospital employment before secretary, Metropolitan Counties Branch, and honorary entering practice. The skills a man picks up in his resident secretary, Enfield and Potters Bar Division. Officers from and junior hospital days remain fundamentally with him the Regional Offices were invited to attend for the first time always. An extra year of suitable resident hospital appoint- as observers. The morning session was devoted to a ment before entering practice is worth a multitude of subse- " Brains Trust" in which questions were answered by a quent short refresher courses. Is it a very unpopular opinion panel consisting of the Secretary and the Treasurer of of mine that an early rush into general practice should be the Association and the chairman of the Organization discouraged by making junior and intermediate hospital Committee. posts more attractive in their terms ? This, I think, would Dr. RIDGE, in opening the Conference, said that as a co- be mutually helpful, as would overcoming in some way the opted member of the Organization Committee the strongest present difficulties in late entry to general practice. I believe impression he had brought away from its meetings was the in responsible specialized clinical assistantships for interested weight which that Committee attached to expressions of men in good hospitals, with prospects of advancement, even opinion from the Secretaries Conference. The Conference (by competition) to consultant posts, though I do not believe had now been given official recognition in that the Organiza- in these arduous days that many men will ever be able tion Committee in considering its own constitution had satisfactorily to combine consultant and general-practitioner decided that the Chairman of the Conference should be work. One side or the other, if not both, will suffer. an ex-officio instead of a co-opted member. General-practitioner beds, yes. It is agreed between G.M.S. and Central Consultants and Specialists Committees that, Welcome by Chairmn of Council where these are set up, consultants in various specialties Dr. E. A. GREGG, Chairman of Council, said that secre- should be attached for regular visiting. This development taries, of course, had every right to attend at Headquarters, should be admirable with this kind of co-operation. but that they should attend in this organized form of a I am being dogmatic and perhaps provocative, but has yearly conference was of great importance. It could not be not the day come when the complexity of medicine demands too frequently emphasized that the strength of the British co-operation, teamwork, not in expensive health centres, but Medical Association lay in its Divisions. The local Division in simple and inexpensive group practice organization as was to all intents and purposes the local B.M.A., and the described by Collings, with secretarial and nursing help to Association itself was nothing more than an aggregate of lighten the load of non-medical work on the doctor ? Apart all the Divisions. As he had so often said, there was only from retaining his own surgery, might not the general prac- one British Medical Association-only one organization of titioner find membership of a neighbouring group surgery an the whole profession. There were any number of sectional advantage ? Would not well-organized group practice organizations representing various fields of activity, but lighten the pressure of work ? only one Association representing the profession as a pro- fession Professionally one must to the hope, owing complexity He had been struck during the recent discussions on of medicine, that clinical co-operation between general prac- titioner and consultant will the report of the Constitution Committee with what was strengthen. It is probably healthy said about the functions of the Branches. The function of that the old state, where the consultant was often economi- the favours of the a Branch was described as " the fostering and maintenance cally dependent upon general practitioner, of the unity of the profession in its area." That could not has gone. The two can now co-operate on a man-to-man and this is be said in better words, and the same applied with even basis, surely better. greater emphasis to the Divisions. They stood for the fullest I have left till last a few words about the junior hospital and freest exchange of experience amongst all classes of staffing problems. Hospital junior staffing needs must be doctors. He had no use for those in the profession who met and proper professional prospects must be held out ploughed before a lonely furrow and thought only of their own the eyes of junior staff. The special difficulties of interests. The profession was one, the Association was one. such staff entering general practice after some years must and this applied not to medical politics alone. People must be met-in fact, they should be more than met. It may be dispossessed of the idea that the B.M.A. was a medico- also be right that there should be some career posts in political organization simply. They wanted to give all the hospital, short of consultant rank, but these should be limited attention they could to the development and furtherance and scrupuldusly defined. There is otherwise real danger of of scientific and professional work. Dr. Gregg concluded dilution and of underpayment for consultant work. The by saying how immensely the work of the secretaries was problem of restricted entry to our profession is now being appreciated. studied by the Government and by ourselves. Points in Organization Dr. A. MACRAE, Secretary of the Association, reminded Final Point the Conference of its proposal last year that the election Our professional is of members might be taken out of the hands of Branches position very anxious. Some of this and given is our own fault. The most important thing we have to see to Divisions. The Constitution Committee had to is that our own professional policy-making machinery, looked at this suggestion and would recommend that in future the election normally should be in the hands of MAY 26, 1956 CONFERENCE OF HONORARY SECRETARIES BRITISHSUPPLEMENTMEDICAL JOURNALTOTUHE 321 Divisions, with the exception that newly qualified doctors, felt this recognition should take was a Roll of Fellows. He who had not yet acquired any permanent or semi-permanent concluded with a word of appreciation of the restraint which practice, might conveniently be elected by the Central secretaries had exercised in their requests for grants. Council, as was already done in the case of members of the armed Forces and other unattached candidates. There might, Questions and Answers however, be circumstances in which it would be impolitic to have an election in the Division say in the case of a doctor The meeting being thrown open to questions, Dr. M. P. who for some reason was not persona grata with his neigh- MARTIN (Worcester and Bromsgrove) asked about the posi- bours-and in such cases there might be a reference to the tion of the local organization of the British Medical Guild, Branch. particularly in view of the fact that it might be necessary to He also drew attention to the resolution which came before call it into action in the not distant future. Dr. MACRAE the last Annual Representative Meeting, and was referred to replied that it was considered that no action was neces- the Council for consideration, that in order to relieve the sary at present. In the first place, the joint remunera- burden on the Council and to stimulate interest in the tion claim would be a just one, and there was no ground for periphery wider use should be made of delegation and co- supposing that the Ministry would not accept it. Again, in option. It was not quite certain what was to be delegated and negotiations of this type a point from which they could who was to be co-opted, and reference was made to those who get no further was not reached without warning, and there had brought forward the motion. The existing opportunities would be time to prepare for battle if necessary. for service on the committees appeared to have been over- Questions were asked about the position in relation to looked. The Divisions and Branches could certainly have a the subscription of members who, after lapsed membership, hand in getting members appointed to the central committees. rejoined the Association. The TREASURER said that there Save in the case of three " domestic committees," it was not was provision for relief in cases of real hardship. Moreover, necessary for a member to be already a member of the there was evidence of misunderstanding on this point, and Representative Body, and if a divisional secretary knew of a a member who definitely resigned was not liable for sub- good man locally there was always a chance of his nomina- scription for the years when he was not a member. tion. Failing election by the Representative Body, there The SECRETARY pointed out that a certain amount of dis- was always a chance of election by the Council. Secretaries cretion could be exercised on subscriptions. The Associa- were perfectly at liberty to bring to the notice of the mem- tion had a rule that those who had been members for 50 ber of Council for their constituency the name of any man years were no longer liable for subscription, but it some- in a divisional area who would be likely to be of service times happened that members who had not quite reached on a central committee. this period found themselves, owing to misfortune or retire- Dr. Macrae concluded with the request that the private- ment, unable to continue their subscriptions, and in certain bed position in the different areas might be reported for the of these cases it was possible for the liability to be waived. information of the Private Practice Committee, which was Questions were raised about the representation of sec- endeavouring to complete a survey on the subject. tions of the profession other than general practitioners and Mr. L. DOUGAL CALLANDER (Hon. Treasurer) said that consultants, in particular junior hospital staff. Dr. MACRAE from the financial point of view the Association had a said that junior hospital staff and other special groups were reasonably good year in 1955, making a surplus of £47,500. looked after by the Consultants and Specialists Committee, £5,000 had been placed in reserve for the Annual Meeting which by no means confined its attention to established which was to be held jointly with the Canadian Medical consultants and specialists. The General Medical Services Association in Edinburgh in 1959, and which would be an Committee also had a subcommittee which looked after the epoch-making event. The membership of the Association interests of young and unestablished practitioners. With had increased by 1,468-a very satisfactory figure when it regard to industrial medical officers it would be difficult to was remembered how nearly the membership was approach- join these in the general remuneration claim to the Ministry ing saturation point. But the Association, like everybody of Health, because they worked outside the National Health else, had to look forward to increasing costs, and he could Service. Dr. PRIDHAM added that the organization for senior hold out no hope of any reduction in subscription. They medical students and the newly qualified was regarded by had budgeted this year for some £25,000 surplus, but already the Organization Committee as of great importance, and £12,000 extra expenditure had come along which could not steps were being taken to give such a committee greater have been visualized at the time. status. Dr. J. A. PRIDHAM, chairman of the Organization Com- Discussion took place on board-and-lodging charges for mittee, said that he hoped the interest of all honorary secre- junior hospital staff, and Dr. D. P. STEVENSON, Deputy taries would be enlisted on behalf of the World Medical Secretary, said that the Staff Side of Committee B of the Association, which was founded in their own building, and Whitley Council was well aware of its responsibility in this was really an important body, representing as it did the respect. They were also trying to ensure a uniform stan- point of view of practising doctors in many countries. He dard of amenities. Dr. POTTER mentioned the difficulties went on to refer to the Constitution Committee, which of organizing peripatetic groups, such as housemen, within would shortly be considering the observations of the Council the Association, but every endeavour was being made to on its report. The report would eventually go-not this do so. year-to the Representative Body, but it would first go to Asked what proportion of newly qualified men joined the the Divisions and Branches, which would be given the fullest Association, Dr. L. S. PoTrER, Assistant Secretary, said that opportunity for comment. The Constitution Committee had a record was kept of those who joined within two years of decided that the unit of the Association must be the Divi- qualification. In 1953 the figure was 67.8%; the figures sion. Areas might need to be enlarged or altered in a for 1954 and 1955 were not yet complete but suggested a number of respects, and the initiative must come from the still higher percentage, and it was hoped that the figure Division itself. If it was felt in a Division that its area would be stabilized at about 70%. should be altered, and if agreement was obtained with the The TREASURER referred a questioner from Glasgow to other Divisions concerned, then the alteration would go para. 159 of the Annual Report of Council on the question forward. Dr. Pridham also referred to the need for ensur- of giving more latitude to Divisions in spending Association ing that every branch of the profession was represented on moneys. This fund obviously must be controlled from Head- tocal executive committees; and again to the desirability quarters, but he felt certain that if honorary secretaries of liaison with local medical societies, including the mutual would deal with the matter in the way intended certain advertising of meetings. Finally he brought up the proposal justifiable extra expenditures would prove very beneficial. to recognize good local service, which was just as deserving Dr. P. J. SHIELDS (Doncaster) asked how much Associa- of recognition as service at the centre. The form which it tion money was allocated annually to the World Medical 322 MAY 1956 CONFERENCE OF HONORARY SUPPLEMENT TO THE 26, SECRETARIES BRITISH MEDICA4 JOURNAL Association. The TREASURER replied that at present it was some £2,000 a year, but it might well be increased to £5,000. Problems of the Large Division The position which the B.M.A. had reached in the eyes of Arising out of a comment by the Constitution Committee the world was such that they must be prepared to send their on the size of Divisions, there was a short discussion on the emissaries abroad and to receive emissaries from other management of a large Division. Dr. D. F. HEATH (Birming- countries. ham) said that there were 1,000 members in his Division. Dr. S. H. LISHMAN (North Northumberland) suggested There was an executive committee and there were contacts that it would be a help to new members if they were allowed with various bodies in the city. The senior honorary secre- to pay their annual subscription in quarterly instalments, tary was a co-opted member to the local medical committee provided this was done by banker's order. The TREASURER and there was also co-operation with the hospitals. The promised to look into that proposal. dean of the medical school was a great help to the Division The question was raised on whether admission to the Roll in getting hold of the younger member. The Division also of Fellows of the Association should be combined with had contact with the Medical Institute in Birmingham. some monetary award, such as relief from paying subscrip- What were the difficulties of running a large Division ? tions. On a show of hands the suggestion was negatived. First there was the loss of contact with members, and in Dr. H. FIDLER (Bradford) raised the question of the making contacts it was important to employ the help of adequacy of compensation for practices compulsorily as many members as possible. He found that the local acquired. Dr. POTTER said that the stage was being medical committee was assuming more and more the duties approached when they would see the Minister personally which the B.M.A. Division should or could do. Clinical on this question. The Compensation and Superannuation meetings were arranged and held by the Division in the Committee had been hammering at it for five years. The winter months, although there were other medical societies interest rate was now quite unrealistic. in the city. If simple discussions were held the members The Conference adjourned for lunch, at which the would attend; if an abstract subject was chosen the mem- honorary secretaries were the guests of the Council. bers were not interested. Birmingham Division was divided into "wards." They were formed about 40 years ago by practitioners in the city Division Handbooks and Programmes and they met on Sunday evenings in each other's houses. Dr. I. E. JAMESON (Salisbury) opened a discussion on the It was found that the most active members of the Division scope and usefulness of Divisional handbooks. He said came from the wards. One-third of the members of the that his Division had produced a handbook for six years executive committee retired every year and must stand down in order to give the general practitioner something useful for a year before they could be re-elected. The chairmen and something more than information about meetings. The were chosen from the different branches of the profession; handbook contained the names of members of the Division, there would be a general practitioner one year, a full-time some information about fees, the names and addresses of consultant the next, and another year it would be a part- district nurses and health visitors. The cost was covered time consultant, then a public health medical officer, and by advertisements and a small profit was made. The first this helped to keep the Division together. There was a handbook had entailed a tremendous amount of work, but Young Practitioners and Assistants Committee, which was the following issues had only to be kept up to date. It was getting ahead quite well, and also a doctors' wives associa- of a small, convenient size which could be kept in the tion, although this was not a B.M.A. association. pocket, and his members found it very useful. Any Division with over 400 members should have two Dr. P. S. STEEN (South Essex) said that his was a young secretaries, a senior and a junior, so that the junior could Division and had published a handbook every year. The get an insight into the work. Headquarters informed him cost was covered by advertisements. In order to get accu- if a member resigned so that he could be contacted. rate information a questionary was sent to every member. Dr. Heath also suggested that there should be a fund It had been suggested that pages for notes should be inserted which would assist young doctors to attend the Annual at the back, but purchase tax had to be paid if this was done Representative Meeting, and he thought it would be helpful The Public Relations Department of the Association had if this meeting could end on a Saturday. assisted them to get advertisements. The handbook was Dr. A. S. ANDERSON (Bristol) said that the problem in sent out to the hospitals, to medical officers of health, and Bristol was not quite so large; there were just over 500 others who might be interested. members, but there was a changing population. 22% of Dr. J. W. CRAWFORD (Tunbridge Wells) showed his Divi- the members were consultants, teachers, or in the hospital sion programme, which was made in the form of a folded service. There were a number of medical societies in the card. It gave the names of the officers and the dates of city which covered the field of medicine. There were district clinical and committee meetings. It was sent direct to mem- groups, rather like the wards in Birmingham, but they were bers. A welcoming letter was always sent to new members geographically divided. The district groups were some of with a copy of the card and the rules. the most active in the medical field. Some had produced In the discussion one honorary secretary said that the memoranda which had become almost policy at Head- cards in his Division were provided and printed by one of quarters. the large firms who had an advertisement on the back. The main problem in a big Division was keeping in touch Dr. STEEN, replying to questions, said that medical officers with the members, and the executive committee should be of firms were asked if they would care to have a copy; a representative of all branches of the profession. It was list of hospital staffs, included in the South Essex Division important to get in touch with the younger doctor. handbook, was valuable. The names of members of the Dr. T. J. LEE (Wandsworth) said there was one problem Association were printed in one kind of type and non- he was up against, and that was to get a representative members in another. industrial medical officer or a consultant on the executive Dr. VIDLER (Bradford) said that as a result of liaison committee. Dr. FORRESTER (Glasgow) said that his Division between public medical health officers lists were sent to appointed a liaison officer to all the big hospitals to stimu- all practitioners in his Division containing the names of late interest, and this worked very well, district nurses, health visitors, and so on. Lists of practi- The Honorary Secretary of a small Division said that he tioners were in all post offices. knew every member of his Division personally, and 90% by Dr. JAMESON agreed that much of the information in Christian name. In a large Division the secretary had no handbooks could be obtained from other sources, but, time to chase people up and encourage them. nevertheless, the handbook was a valuable epitome. The Dr. G. W. ANDERSON (Newcastle-upon-Tyne) said that in list of district nurses contained in his handbook was the the large centres there were so many outside attractions that only one in the neighbourhood. it was difficult to get members to the Divisional meetings. TO THE MAY 26, 1956 CONFERENCE OF HONORARY SECRETARIES BRITISHSUPPLEMENTMEDICAL JOURNAL 323 Dr. G. CORMACK (Newcastle-upon-Tyne), speaking to the St. George's.-Reappointed: Professor T. Crawford; Mr. point that local medical committees were usurping some M. F. Nicholls; Mr. V. H. Riddell. of the functions of the B.M.A. Division, said that local Westminster.-Reappointed: Mr. R. Coyte; Dr. C. J. Gavey; Sir Geoffrey Todd. medical committees were statutory bodies set up to deal St. Mary's.-Reappointed: Miss Esther Rickards; Dr. with certain aspects of the Health Service. Because of that G. L. M. McElligott. New: Dr. C. A. Young; Mr. D. and their close lihks with executive councils, they could Hamilton MacLeod (until March 31, 1957). get things done more quickly. He thought Divisions might Guy's.-Reappointed: Professor T. B. Johnston; Professor look into this and get their job back from the local medical W. R. Spurrell; Dr. F. S. Warner. committees. King's College.-Reappointed: Dr. R. Cocker. New: Dr. Dr. W. BROWN (Huddersfield) suggested that it should be J. L. Livingstone. laid down that a secretary should serve as assistant secretary St. Thomnas's.-Reappointed: Mr. R. H. Boggon; Mr. F. Cook; Dr. J. S. Richardson. before he became a full secretary, especially in a small Hammersmith, West London, and St. Mark's.-Reappointed: Branch. He suggested an abbreviated handbook could be Professor I. Aird; Dr. C. M. Fletcher; Mr. R. H. Franklin. put out for secretaries which would outline the main points Hospital for Sick Children.-Reappointed: Dr. I. A. B. Cathie; of the job. He expressed extreme gratitude for what he had Mr. G. H. Macnab. learned that day. National Hospitals for Nervous Diseases.-Reappointed: Dr. Macdonald Critchley; Mr. H. Jackson. New: Mr. T. Cawthorne. Royal National Throat, Nose and Ear.-Reappointed: Pro- Chairman for 1957 Conference fessor F. C. Ormerod. Moorfields, Westminster, and Central Eye.-Reappointed: Mr. Dr. V. Cotton Cornwall, Honorary Secretary, Mersey- F. W. Law. New: Mr. E. F. King. side Branch, was declared elected chairman of the next Bethlem Royal and Maudsley.-Reappointed: Professor G. W. conference. A vote of thanks to the chairman for his con- Harris; Professor A. J. Lewis. New: Dr. A. D. Leigh. duct of the business was carried with applause, and the St. John's Hospital for Diseases of the Skin.-Reappointed: conference concluded. Dr. F. R. Bettley; Dr. G. M. Frizelle; Dr. S. C. Gold. Hospitals for Diseases of the Chest.-Reappointed: Dr. A. Hope Gosse; Dr. F. H. Young. Royal National Orthopaedic.-Reappointed: Mr. A. T. Fripp; Mr. H. J. Seddon. National Heart.-Reappointed: Sir Russell Brock; Dr. J. M. HOSPITAL BOARD APPOINTMENTS Campbell. St. Peter's and St. Paul's.-Reappointed: Mr. A. W. Badenoch; The Minister of Health has appointed or reappointed the Mr. J. D. Fergusson. New: Mr. H. K. Vernon. following medical members to boards of governors of teach- Royal Marsden.-Reappointed: Mr. A. Lawrence Abel; Dr. E. E. Pochin. ing hospitals and regional hospital boards, mainly to fill Queen Charlotte's and Chelsea.-Reappointed: Mr. F. Cook; vacancies caused by retirement in rotation of one-third of Mr. A. B. Evans. New: Mr. J. B. Blaikley (until March 31, the members, until March 31, 1959. 1957). Eastman Dental.-Reappointed: Professor W. E. Herbert. Regional Hospital Boards New: Dr. G. S. Wigley. Newcastle.-Reappointed: Dr. S. Whately Davidson; Profes- sor R. B. Green; Dr. R. G. Russell. Provincial Teaching Hospitals Leeds.-Reappointed: Dr. R. Watson. Uniited Newcastle-upon-Tyne Hospitals.-Reappointed: Profes- Sheffield-.Reappointed: Mr. R. Lodge; Dr. D. Macmil'-an; sor R. V. Bradlaw; Professor R. B. Green; Professor F. J. Professor G. L. Roberts. Nattrass; Dr. J. Hendry. New: Professor E. A. Pask. East Anglian.-Reappointed: Mr. M. W. B. Bulman; Captain United Leeds Hospitals.-Reappointed: Professor P. J. Moir; E. Murray-Harvey. New: Mr. K. W. Mackenzie. Dr. D. C. Moir; Professor T. Talmage Read; Dr. J. E. Rusby. North-west Metropolitan.-Reappointed: Mr. A. Staveley New: Dr. J. R. H. Towers. Gough; Miss Esther Rickards. United Sheffield Hospitals.-Reappointed: Dr. C. S. O'Flynn. North-east Metropolitan.-Reappointed: Dr. L. Comyns; New: Mr. F. W. Holdsworth; Professor R. P. Jepson. Professor V. W. Dix. United Cambridge Hospitals.-Reappointed: Professor A. L. South-east Metropolitan.-Reappointed: Dr. A. Talbot Rogers; Banks; Mr. T. J. Fairbank. Dr. E. R. Boland. United Oxford Hospitals.-Reappointed: Dr. C. W. Carter; South-west Metropolitan.-Reappointed: Dr. C. J. Grosch; Dr. Honor Smith; Mr. A. S. Till. Mr. H. H. Langston; Dr. L. Minski. United Bristol Hospitals.-Reappointed: Professor A. I. Oxford.-Reappointed: Mr. A. R. Banham; Mr. J. A. Darling. New: Mr. A. L. Eyre-Brook. Stallworthy. United CardifJ Hospitals.-Reappointed: Professor L. C. South-western.-Reappointed: Dr. L. W. Hale. Rogers; Alderman J. Walker. New: Professor W. W. Mushin; Welsh.-Reappointed: Professor 0. H. Williams. Professor H. Scarborough. Birmingham.-Reappointed: Professor C. F. V. Smout; Dr. United Birmingham Hospitals.-Reappointed: Dr. R. S. F. W. Marshall. Aitken; Dr. H. Bulmer; Professor J. M. Smellie. New: Dr. Manichester.-Reappointed: Professor A. D. Macdonald; J. C. Heather (until March 31, 1958). Councillor H. Pigott; Dr. A. Pool. United Manchester Hospitals.-New: Dr. S. B. Smith; Pro- Liverpool.-Reappointed: Professor Sir Henry Cohen; Sir fessor G. A. G. Mitchell. Arthur A. Gemmell; Dr. S. Barton Hall. United Liverpool Hospitals.-Reappointed: Professor Sir Henry Cohen. New: Mr. A. McKie-Reid; Mr. J. Howell- London Teaching Hospitals Hughes. St. Bartholomew's.-Reappointed: Sir Geoffrey Keynes; Mr. 0. S. Tubbs. New: Dr. E. R. Cullinan. London.-Reappointed: Mr. D. W. C. Northfield. New: Dr. R. R. Bomford. TRADE UNION MEMBERSHIP Royal Free.-Reappointed: Professor E. M. Killick; Mr. J. D. McLaggan; Mr. A. Clifford Morson. New: Dr. F. P. Lee The following is a list of local authorities which are under- Lander. stood to require employees to be members of a trade union University College.-Reappointed: Mr. D. R. Davies; Dr. or other organization: E. A. Gregg. Middlesex.-Reappointed: Mr. A. C. Morson; Professor Metropolitan Borough Councils.-Fulham, Southwark. B. W. Windeyer. New: Mr. R. S. Handley; Mr. J. P. Monkhouse. Non-County Borough Councils.-Crewe. Charing Cross.-New: Dr. N. S. Plummer; Dr. K. S. Smith. Urban District Councils.-Houghton-le-Spring. SUPPLEMENT TO TIl 324 MAY 26, 1956 CERTIFYING INCAPACITY FOR WORK BRITISH MEDICAL JOURNAL I trust that this short account will help to dispel any CERTIFYING INCAPACITY FOR WORK misunderstanding regarding the attitude of the Society to- wards the shortage, which, I can assure you, we regard very FORMS MED.6 AND RM.7 seriously.-I am, etc., Some doctors have found that they need more than the one W. J. ASHWORTH, London, W.1. President, copy of the orange-coloured form Med.6 which is to be Society of Radiographers. found at the end of each book of first medical certificates. Form Med.6 is used for sending confidential information to the divisional or regional medical officer when the certifying Defence of the Middle Classes doctor considers it undesirable for the patient to know the SIR,-Dr. Gordon Sutcliffe's letter (Supplement, May 12, exact diagnosis of his illness. The divisional medical officer p. 281) demands an answer. I will disregard the gratuitous tells the local pensions and national insurance office when insult to Mr. Price, except to state that I know Mr. Price form Med.6 has been used (but does not divulge the con- and can assure Dr. Sutcliffe that his motives are not self- fidential diagnosis) in order to prevent that office from seeking. Dr. Sutcliffe's irrational statement that by joining referring the patient to the regional medical officer or from the middle-class alliance doctors will forgo their professional taking other action. status indicates that he knows nothing of the organization The Ministry of Pensions and National Insurance has he seeks to criticize. arranged for additional copies of this form to be available, The need for the middle-class alliance is very real. It and they may be obtained from: is true that we have our professional associations and In England, the Divisional Medical Officer, Ministry of Health, organizations, but these bodies have not done very much London, Birmingham, Leeds, Manchester, or Nottingham as during the last 10 years to halt the decline in our professional appropriate. and financial status. It is the apparent impotence and in- In Wales, the Divisional Medical Officer, Welsh Board of eptitude of our professional organizations which underlies Health, Cardiff. and emphasizes the need for the middle-class alliance. In Scotland, the Regional Medical Officer, Department of of Health for Scotland, Edinburgh, Aberdeen, Dundee, Glasgow, Moreover, we have to consider those hard-hit sections or Inverness as appropriate. the community who do not have, even nominally, an organi- zation to represent their interests-Army pensioners, widows, Extra supplies of form R.M.7 can also be obtained from retired folk living on fixed incomes, and so on. If the the divisional medical officers or regional medical officers national council which Dr. Sutcliffe proposes should be set mentioned above. This form is for use when a doctor up, I think that most of us would approve of such a body wishes to obtain a second opinion from a regional medical in principle; but its existence would in no way make the officer in cases where there is doubt about the patient's middle-class alliance superfluous, and in any event the alli- incapacity for work. ance is in existence now-the national council is not even on the drawing board. I would appeal to doctors to find out about the alliance Correspondence from Mr. Price at the House of Commons, and if they agree with its aims to support him, so that he can then speak for, inter alia, all those discontented Dr. Smiths and Dr. Browns Because of heavy pressure on our space, correspondents are for proof of whose existence one need only peruse your asked to keep their letters short. correspondence columns.-I am, etc., Shortage of Radiographers London, S.W.10. A. W. BEARD. Sm,-I was interested to note that the chairman of the Radiologists Group is reported (Supplement, May 5, p. 262) Emergency Call Service to have drawn attention to the shortage of radiographers SIR,-I had never heard of the Emergency Call Service, and to have stated that the Society of Radiographers is but it appears to be a splendid idea if conducted in an unwilling to admit this shortage. ethical and legal manner. The potentialities of such a May I respectfully say that, far from not admitting the service to the hard-pressed London doctor are enormous, shortage, the Council of the Society, which includes radio- especially to those in single-handed practice. For instance, logists, has had this problem under active review for some in the case of a doctor with mild illness, such as influenza, time, and only a few months ago discussed it with the trying to snatch a good night's rest, it could be a real boon. Ministry of Health. As a result of this discussion, and If the doctor is prepared to pay for it out of his own with the approval of the Ministry, the Society has recently income and the organization is well conducted, I fail to see made modifications in the pre-entry educational requirements any objection at all.-I am, etc., for students which, it is hoped, will go some way towards S.E.17. P. NORMAN GAY. alleviating the shortage. Moreover, we have made another London, request to meet the Minister as soon as possible, in order to explore further ways of easing the difficulty. I should SIR,-When the N.H.S. Act was being advocated, one of also point out that the suggestion that candidates should the carrots dangled before the bemused eyes of general prac- be employed temporarily under some other designation while titioners and the public was the conception of a central awaiting examination results is by no means a new one-in organization where night-duty doctors would be alert and fact, I understand that this has been for some time a immediately. available to attend to emergency calls. This commonly adopted practice throughout the country. is precisely what is offered by the Emergency Call Service. Dr. Grace Batten earns our thanks for asking the Group It may be objected that members are allowing their to press for higher salaries for radiographers, for herein lies patients to be treated by doctors who are not known to the greatest single factor contributing to the shortage. I need them. But is not this precisely the situation that arises only state that since 1948 the cost of living has risen 56%, when one appoints a locum ? Nothing is known about while in the same period a junior radiographer's salary has him, there is no check on his activities, and his vagaries are risen 23 %, and a superintendent radiographer's salary by often only detected after he has gone. Introduction by an only 12- %. If one adds to this the meagre number of agency is no guarantee of reliability. Contrast this state of senior and superintendent posts as compared with the total uncertainty with the circumstances in the E.C.S. Doctors number of radiographers employed it will be seen that the are not employed unless their credentials and experience profession does not offer a sufficiently attractive career to satisfy the medical organizers, and their activities are checked retain its members. Indeed, statistics have shown us that several times during the night, while the report made to there is no undue shortage of entrants, but that there is a the patient's doctor in the morning provides a further oppor- huge wastage in the first few years after qualification. tunity for assessing the value of their work. If membership MAY 26, 1956 CORRESPONDENCECORRESPONDENCE ~~~~~~BRITISHBISUPPLEMENTMEDICAL JOURNALTHE 325 of the E.C.S. is to be pronounced " undesirable," sheer logic high-pressure propaganda on their behalf, including notices must lead to the conclusion that employment of a locum is in the British Medical Journal and two circulars each to " reprehensible." some 45,000 doctors in England, all of which was paid for Doctors and patients who have had experience of the very them. We estimate this cost at a large sum. CLne of us satisfactory working of the scheme will await with anxiety (S. D.) did a limited amount of circularization at his own the deliberations of the Medical Practices Committee on this expense through hospitals. The other (C. T. H. W.) asked the Minister of Health to help, as he wished specifically matter.-I am, etc., Health Service. London, S.W 18. D. N. JACKMAN. to represent the doctors of the National This help was refused. At the election, each independent candidate polled some SIR,-We would like wholeheartedly to endorse the senti- candidates naturally ments expressed by Dr. W. Weinberg (Supplement, May 12, 8,000 votes, but the B.M.A.-sponsored Service. were elected. The total effect was thus that the B.M.A. p. 282) with reference to the Emergency Call by its elderly members. We We have been aided by the E.C.S. since early this year, secured the whole representation believe that the G.M.C. itself should publish the election and can find nothing but praise for this highly efficient of the non-profit-making medical organization. This has been address of each candidate, thus eliminating the power patients who have had purse. We believe that the representatives should be of all repeatedly echoed by all of our with virile ambitions and occasion to be visited by E.C.S. doctors. It is difficult to age groups, and that younger men complications ideas should not be shouldered off like this. We believe envisage the nature of the ethical and legal that the election apparently anticipated by the General Medical Services that it was the intention of Parliament has effected a dramatic should be a free one of suitable persons, and that the Committee. The advent of E.C.S. to grab the entire repre- change in our working conditions, with a resultant significant B.M.A. should not use its powers and capacity for work. We sentation. We believe that reform of this decadent and improvement in our well-being And we still believe that hope that it will consolidate its position and expand its scope unfair electoral system is urgent. T the profession would be better represented by us, if only to help others.-We are, etc., A 1.nT-n would retire after their 20 R-. L. GTULIINLi. two of the members re-elected London, S.W.5. R. L. GOTHILL. or 30 years' service.-We are, etc., Herne Bay, Kent. C. T. H. WHITESIDE. Pay Increase to S.H.M.O.s Rugeley, Staffs. STANLEY DILLON. SIR,-It is now exactly two years that S.H.M.O.s have taken up their determined stand against the inadequate pay award of April, 1954, and you had the kin.dness to print H.M. Forces Appointments my letter on this subject (Supplement, May 22>, 1954, p. 281). Measured against the time that we have had to wait, the meagre pay increase now granted by the Industrial Court ARMY EMERGENCY RESERVE OF OFFICERS (Supplement, May 12, p. 280) will disappoin t many among ROYAL ARMY MEDICAL CORPS us, and might induce some to belittle what has;been achieved Colonel J. L. Hamilton, M.C., T.D., to be Honorary Colonel, and to speak of failure. But that is certairnly not so. I 21 General Hospital. regard the award as a great achievement in that it is the Colonel C. H. Budd, M.C., T.D., has relinquished the appoint- 01 ment of Honorary Colonel of an A.E.R. unit, tenure expired. outcome of a struggle, resolutely carried n by our own Colonel J. A. Hooker, T.D., having attained the age limit for representatives, undaunted by two refusals fro]m the Manage-ge retirement, has ceased to belong to the A.E.R.O. ment Side. This is real success, on which [ItheuManashould like Lieutenant-Colonel T. H. Dockrell, T.D., has been granted the S.H.M.C). Group, and the acting rank of Colonel. to congratulate the leaders of Lieutenant-Colonel P. W. Ingram has resigned his commission, which, I trust, will encourage them to pursue all the many retaining the rank of Lieutenant-Colonel. from issues to a successful end.- -I am, etc., Major (Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel) B. B. Hickey, other outstanding rank of L. WITTELS. T.A.R.O., to be Major, and has been granted the acting Leeds, 15. Lieutenant-Colonel. Majors F. S. Mooney and A. C. F. Green, E.R.D., have been granted the acting rank of Lieutenant-Colonel. Salaried Service Major W. A. H. Stevenson, T.D., has relinquished his com- mission, retaining the rank of Major. SIR,-I do not propose to take up your spaLce by an exten- his commission. the capitaLtion system tinstmoof Major E. V. Bevan, T.D., has resigned sive discussion of the merits of Captain J. C. Knox, C.B.E., has relinquished the appointmentof payment for general practitioners as oppose o asaried of Honorary Colonel, 5 General Hospital, retaining the rank Honorary Colonel. service, except to observe that it is an inhLerent weakness Emer- a doctor and can subject to the Captain (Honorary Major) J. G. Reid, M.V.O., formerly of the former that is, be, gency Commission, to be Captain, and has been granted the kind of intimidation described by Dr. B. Hirish (Supplement, acting rank of Lieutenant-Colonel. April 21, p. 208). Captains (Acting Majors) G. S. Crockett and J. C. Grant have is to granted the acting rank of Lieutenant-Colonel. Dr. F. Wille (Supplement, May 12, p. 2831) indeed been and E. R. S. Hooper never been asked to issue a false Captains A. J. Buller, H. M. Jamison, be envied in that he has )n have been granted the acting rank of Major. National certificate or to bribe a patient to remain c)n his list.liSt. My Captain (Acting Major) C. M. B. Pare, from A.E.R.O. the acting rank of Major. experience has been otherwise, and I shoulId like to place Service List, to be Captain, retaining be have left my list after my refusal to: Captain G. S. Plaut, from Emergency Commission, to on record that patients supplies Captain, and has been granted the acting rank of Major. (1) issue certificates to enable them to obtain extra of rationed foods, (2) certify that they were incapable of TERRITORIAL ARMy (3) provide on ROYAL ARMY MEDICAL CORPS working when in fact they knew otherwise, of Major. form E.C.10 supplies of self-prescribed reimedies for self- Captain P. S. Davis has been granted the acting rank diagnosed complaints.-I am, etc., F. TERRITORIAL ARMY RESERVE OF OFFICERS: ROYAL ARMY Ebbw Vale. BANDo. MEDICAL CORPS Brigadier W. R. Ward, T.D., Q.H.S., from Active List, to be G.M.C. Election Brigadier. attained the at the General Lieutenant-Colonel T. W. Preston, T.D., having SIR,-As the two independent candidates limit of liability to recall, has ceased to belong to the we should be for the age rank of Lieutenant-Colonel. Medical Council election Sgrateful T.A.R.O., retaining the to opportunity to bring certain facts to the nc)tice of the pro- Lieutenant-Colonel J. D. Finnegan, T.D., from Active List, for Diirect Representa- be Lieutenant-Colonel. fession. There were seven vacancies Major (Honorary Colonel) M. L. Formby, T.D., having tives. The B.M.A. sponsored seven candiidates, including attained the age limit of liability to recall, has ceased to belong anid four members retaining the honorary rank of Colonel. the Chairman of Council, the Treasurer, to the T.A.R.O., M. R. Frazer, T.D., of the B.M.A. Council. All these had tihe advantage of Major (Honorary Lieutenant-Colonel) E. SUPPLEMENT TO THE 326 MAY 26, 1956 ASSOCIATION NOTICES Bs.rH MEDICAL JOURNAL having attained the age limit of liability to recall, has ceased to belong to the T.A.R.O., retaining the honorary rank of JULY Lieutenant-Colonel. 5 Thurs. Annual Representative Meeting (at Brighton), Major A. A. Guild, from Active List, to be Major, and has been 10 a.m. granted the honorary rank of Lieutenant-Colonel. 6 Fri. Annual Representative Meeting (at Brighton), Major W. F. Mair, T.D., having attained the age limit of 9.30 a.m. liability to recall, has ceased to belong to the T.A.R.O., retain- 7 Sat. Council (at Brighton), 9 a.m. ing the rank of Major. 7 Sat. Annual Representative Meeting (at Brighton), Major G. V. Cole, from Active List, to be Major. 10 a.m. Captain (Honorary Major) W. Mayne, having attained the age 9 Mon. Annual Representative Meeting (at Brighton), limit of liability to recall, has ceased to belong to the T.A.R.O., 10 a.m. retaining the honorary rank of Major. 9 Mon. Council (at Brighton), at conclusion of A.R.M. 9 Mon. Annual General Meeting (at Brighton), 12.30 p.m. ROYAL AIR FORCE 9 Mon. Adjourned Annual General Meeting and Presi- Flight Lieutenant W. B. Kennedy to be Squadron Leader. dent's Address (at Brighton), at 8.15 p.m. ROYAL AIR FORCE RESERVE OF OFFICERS Branch and Division to be Held Squadron Leader G. A. Baker has relinquished his commission, Meetings retaining the rank of Wing Commander. BRADFORD DIVISION.-At Medical Societies' Room, Bradford Royal Infirmary, Wednesday, May 30, 8.15 p.m., A.G.M. ROYAL AIR FORCE VOLUNTEER RESERVE CHELSEA AND FULHAM DIVISION.-At Fulham Town Hall, Squadron Leaders R. J. Twort and D. P. Van Meurs have S.W., Friday, June 1, 8.30 p.m., annual general meeting. relinquished their commissions, retaining the rank of Wing CUMBERLAND DIVISION.-At County Hotel, Carlisle, Thursday, Commander. May 31, 8 p.m., two films; 9 p.m., business meeting. Squadron Leaders D. 0. Dickie, E. H. Kitching, W. M. Martin, DORSET DIVISION.-At the Chest Clinic, Dorchester, Tuesday, and 0. Scarborough have relinquished their commissions, re- May 29, 8.30 p.m., meeting. Lecture by Dr. D. G. Vulliamy: taining their rank. "Enuresis." Flight Lieutenants A. E. Burton, N. F. Kirkman. and J. H. EASTBOURNE DIvISIoN.-At Burlington Hotel, Saturday, June 2, Ward have relinquished their commissions, retaining the rank of 7.15 for 7.45 p.m., annual dinner and dance. Guests are invited. Squadron Leader. HARROW DIVISION.-At Rayners Hotel, Rayners Lane, Monday, May 28, 8.30 p.m., business meeting. KESTEVEN DIvISION.-At George Hotel, Grantham, Thursday, May 31, 7.15 for 7.30 p.m., meeting. Address by Lieutenant- Association Notices Colonel M. B. Matheson: " Nuclear Warfare and the Doctor." LAMBETH AND SOUTHWARK DIVISION.-At Belgrave Hospital foi Children, Clapham Road, S.W., Tuesday, May 29, 2.30 p.m., ADJUSTMENT OF AREAS OF DIVISIONS clinical meeting arranged by medical staff of the hospital. All members of the Division are invited. OF MALAYA BRANCH LIVERPOOL DIVISION.-At Liverpool Medical Institution, Tues- day, May 29, 8.30 p.m., special meeting. Notice is hereby given by the Council to all concerned of METROPOLITAN COUNTIES BRANCH.-At B.M.A. House, Tavi- the transfer of Trengganu and Kelantan from the area of stock Square, London, W.C., Tuesday, May 29, 3 p.m., annual thp Central Division to that of the Northern Division of general meeting. President's Address by Dr. Alistair R. French: "Negligence is an Ugly Word." the Malaya Branch. The areas of the two Divisions will NORTH WALES BRANCH.-At Imperial Hotel, Llandudno, Thurs- now be: day, May 31, 3 p.m., annual meeting. Presidential Address by The Northern Division.-Penang, Province Wellesley, Perak, Dr. A. Maddock Jones: " Cerebrospinal Fever." and Kelantan. REIGATE DIvISION.-At Reigate Hill Hotel, Monday, May 28, Kedah, Perlis, Trengganu, 8.30 p.m., meeting. The Central Division.-Selangor, Pahang, Negri Sembilan, and SOUTH LANCASHIRE AND EAST CHESHIRE BRANCH.-At Pack Malacca. Horse Hotel, Bradshawgate, Bolton, Wednesday, May 30, 12 noon for 12.30 p.m., luncheon; 2 p.m., annual meeting; 2.30 p.m., The area of the Southern Division remains unchanged- visits have been arranged. namely, Singapore and Johore. A. MACRAE, SOUTH STAFFS DIVISION.-At Executive Council Offices, Lynton Street, Wolverhampton, Tuesday, May 29, 8.30 p.m., A.G.M. Secretary. SOUTHAMPTON DIvisION.-At Royal South Hants Hospital, Wednesday, May 30, 8.30 p.m., extraordinary general meeting. SUSSEX BRANCH.-At Royal Victoria Hotel, St. Leonard's-on- Diary of Central Meetings Sea, Wednesday, May 30, 12.30 p.m., annual general meeting, MAY followed by luncheon and afternoon tnrp. WEST SUFFOLK DIVISION.-At Everard's Hotel, Bury St. 29 Tues. Subcommittee on Guillebaud Report, Central Edmunds, Wednesday, May 30, 8.30 p.m., meeting. Consultants and Specialists Committee, 11 a.m. WILLESDEN DIvISION.-At Physical Medicine Department, Willesden General Hospital, Tuesday, May 29, 8.30 p.m., annual JUNE general meeting, preceded by film: " Cortisone." 1 Fri. Ophthalmic Group Committee, 10.30 a.m. YORK DIVISION.-At York Medical Rooms, 23, 1 Fri. Ophthalmic Qualifications Committee, following Society'sA.G.M. Ophthalmic Group Committee. Stonegate York, Tuesday, May 29, 8.30 p.m., 1 Fri. Subcommittee on Future of Ophthalmic Services, Ophthalmic Group Committee and Faculty of Meetings of Branches and Divisions Ophthalmologists, 2 p.m. 5 Tues. Editorial Subcommittee, Joint Formulary Com- DORSET DIVISION mittee, 11 a.m. A meeting was held at the Chest Clinic, Dorchester, on March 6 Wed. Mobile Radio Subcommittee, Private Practice 16, 1956. Dr. C. Hollins was in the chair and 23 members were Committee, 12 noon. present. The meeting debated the question of a claim for in- 6 Wed. Private Practice Committee, 2 p.m. creased remuneration, and accepted that it was justified. A 6 Wed. Tuberculosis and Diseases of the Chest Group motion, " This meeting expresses the opinion that junior public Committee, 2 p.m. health M.O.s are underpaid and that the B.M.A. should take 7 Thurs. Central Consultants and Specialists Committee, steps to put the matter right now," was supported. 10.30 a.m. 12 Tues. Alternative Edition Subcommittee, Joint Formu- TANGANYIKA BRANCH lary Committee, 11 a.m. The annual general meeting was held in the Women's Service 14 Thurs. Conference of Representatives of Local Medical was in the Committees, 10 a,m. League on February 24, 1956. Dr. W. J. McGinness 15 Fri. Chest Services Subcommittee, Central Consultants chair and 14 members attended. The following officers were and Specialists Committee, 11.30 a.m. elected: 15 Fri. Overseas Committee, 2 p.m. President.-Dr. A C. E. Cole. 19 Tues. Coal Gas Poisoning Subcommittee, Science Com- Vice-president.-Dr. D. Ellis-Jones. mittee, 2 p.m. Honorary Secretary.-Dr. G. M. Daya. 20 Wed. Conference of Consultants and Specialists, 10 a.m. WALSALL AND LICHFIELD DIVISION 20 Wed. Maritime Subcommittee, Private Practice Com- mittee, 2 p.m. A recent meeting, well attended, passed the following resolu- 21 Thurs. Ethical Review Subcommittee, Central Ethical tion: "We strongly approve the joint action of the General Committee, 11 a.m. Medical Services Committee and the Joint Consultants Com- 21 ThuIrs. Central Ethical Committee, 2 p.m. mittee in their efforts to obtain implementation of the Spens 22 Fri. Staffing Committee, 10.30 a.m. report at the present time."