BRITISH ASSOCIATION SCIENTIFIC CONFERENCE AT THE ROYAL INSTITUTION [Allocated Title]

Sound film shot at the Royal Institution in London, where the British Association for the Advancement of Science convenes an international conference on the role of science in world order, and distinguished delegates speak.

Reel 1: Interior of a hall at the Royal Institution. Edvard Beneš, President-in-exile of Czechoslovakia, addresses the conference. He speaks of the development of science over the centuries and the advancement it has brought to mankind, and the determination not to allow 'technological misuse' in the future. A British scientist (Richard Gregory?) addresses the conference (with 'My lords, your Excellencies') and reads a message from Churchill, the Prime Minister. Churchill's message emphasises the importance of freedom in scientific endeavour and discussion, and the damage done to science by Germany.

Reel 2: Another British eminence speaking; he speaks of the liberty to learn, express and develop as key to science. Sidney Webb speaking; he references a recent poem in the Manchester Guardian entitled 'Diehard', about this meeting of the British Association. He speaks of the liberal values of science, how science impinges on world affairs, and the importance of criticism. The appliance of science in government and human affairs. Ivan Maisky, Soviet ambassador to the United Kingdom, in the audience. Chinese ambassador Wellington Koo. The importance of 'scientific planning' and how to planning can make problems unnecessary. American ambassador to the United Kingdom, John Gilbert Winant, speaking; he pays tribute to Britain's courage of moral fibre and imagination and forward-looking intellect. The contribution of science to the building of the new world, and practical problems. He cites the Tennessee Valley Authority as a case study 'the most imaginative, and successful domestic experiment in the last decade'. The TVA effectively superimposed on local and subimposed under national agencies. The TVA's greatest contribution in planning, coordination and leadership. The coming rebuilding of the world: 'we of the new world will certainly participate'. The hope that planning and administrative power will 'follow the boundaries of problems' and precede action to allow science and technology to serve mankind.

35mm