Budget, 1959-60, Report by Budget Sub-Committee

A simplified estimation of income and expenditure for 1959-60 is presented.

It is based on the assumption that the grant for 1959-60 from the Hon. Minister for; Scientific and Industrial Research will be the same as that received for 1958-59, namely, £ 5,000. This grant continues to constitute the principal source of revenue of the Royal Society, although sales, levy on Transactions, and one-sixth contribution from Branches are estimated for the coming year to amount to £770. On the expenditure side there are several new items, or rather transfers to separate funds, representing a total of £450. This, in addition to the expenditure for the publication of the Rules of the Society and an Index to Volumes 64–85 of the Transactions (£450) brings the total to £900. In view of the large amount carried forward each year in excess income over expenditure, this additional expenditure is no strain, considering that all but £400 will be spent after Branch contributions towards the Darwin Expedition have been received.

A further explanation of items in the estimates follows the Budget Statement.

The Sub-committee recommends the adoption of these estimates and that the Standing Committee be authorised to present early in December a case to the Hon. Minister of Scientific and Industrial Research for a grant of £5,000 for the year, 1959-60.

The Sub-committee also holds the view that a brief discussion with the Secretary of the Department of Scientific and Industrial Research prior to meeting the Minister would do much to smooth the way and increase general understanding Early action is called for as the D.S.I.R. estimates are prepared in January and the Royal Society's grant is a part of the vote of the D. S.I R.

For and on behalf of the Committee,

R. W. Willett