Mathematical Colloquium in Manchester

Abstract

A MATHEMATICAL colloquium was held in the University of manchester during September 8-10. It was attended by more than a hundred members from most of the British universities and university colleges. The discussion sessions which occupied the greater part of the three days were devoted to analysis (two sessions), algebraic geometry, algebra, differential geometry and topology. They took the form of a short review of recent progress, followed by a general discussion. Lectures were given by Prof. H. R. Pitt (Belfast), on "Fourier Transforms", by Mr. P. Hall (Cambridge), on "The Basic Concepts of Abstract Algebra", and by Prof. J. H. C. Whitehead (Oxford), on "Homotopy Theory". The fact that most of the members were staying together in Dalton Hall, one of the halls of residence of the University, gave plenty of opportunity for those informal discussions which are so important a part of such meetings. It was the view of all those who took part that such a gathering should be a regular event, and a second colloquium will be held in 1950, probably in Oxford. To avoid clashing with the International Congress in September, this meeting will be held in the Easter vacation. The following were appointed a committee for the 1950 meeting: Prof. H. A. Heilbronn (Bristol), Prof. W. V. D. Hodge (Cambridge), Dr. W. Ledermann (Manchester), Prof. M. H. A. Newman (Manchester), Dr. D. Pedoe (London), Prof. H. R. Pitt (Belfast), Prof. W. W. Rogosinski (Newcastle), Prof. H. S. Ruse (Leeds), Dr. F. Smithies (Cambridge), Prof. A. G. Walker (Sheffield), Prof. J. H. C. WTiitehead (Oxford), and Prof. E. M. Wright (Aberdeen).