The question of sections, which had been in abeyance for a considerable number of years, was raised when interest within the Society developed around the subjects of mathematics and physics. The interest became so great in 1923 that a new section was formed—the mathematical and physical section—to be concerned specially with mathematics, physics, astronomy and chemistry. The functions were to be chiefly concerned with the development of these sciences as a whole and acquainting its members with the results of latest research work both at home and abroad. The section under the control of ten councillors, with Professor T. H. Laby as chairman, functioned immediately with special meetings being held for its members, attendances of up to 80 being obtained. After many years of successful operation, this section became absorbed into other scientific societies.

The decision in June 1923, that all papers submitted to the Society should be refereed prior to publication, was a noteworthy one in that it guaranteed the suitability of the material for the Proceedings. The only exception to this principle was to be in the case of no suitable referee being available in Australia, when the council would accept responsibility for publication.

A strong deputation to the government in 1923 for increased financial assistance brought immediate results. The deputation asked not only for the restoration of the annual grant but that action should be taken to repair the Society's premises and bind its library periodicals. Following an inspection of the property by the State Treasurer, Sir William McPherson, an assurance was given that the annual grant would be raised to £200, the volumes of the library would be bound by the Government Printer, and repairs to the building would be effected through the chief architect of the Public Works Department. While these negotiations were in progress, a further offer was received by the council through their agent for the leasing of the Exhibition Sreet. frontage for the erection of a garage at an annual rental of £300. The Treasurer of the government, stating that he was opposed to Crown Lands being leased in such a manner, brought about a refusal by the council not only of this tempting offer, but a cancellation of the earlier decision to lease portion of the site. Sir William McPherson's proposals being approved by the government, 800 volumes were bound by the Government Printer free of charge, while plans and specifications of works to cost approximately £1,000 were prepared by the Chief Architect. While the latter was not immediately forthcoming, renovations to the caretaker's cottage and the fencing were carried out expeditiously.

Royal Society of Victoria