CONDITIONS IN PARTICULAR INDUSTRIES. 288

others, led in reforming the association. It has grown rapidly and
now includes practically all of the important British firms in the
plectrical field.
It consists of bona fide British manufacturers of electrical goods
and plants, machinery, material, and complementary apparatus, and
of persons connected with firms in Great Britain manufacturing or
handling such products.!
The controlling body is formed by a president, vice presidents,
council, and secretary. The council, which directs the affairs of the
association, numbers 15 members, of whom one-third retire annually,
but are eligible for reelection.
The manufacturers of the association are divided into sections,
classified according to the goods which they manufacture. Each
section may create committees for the consideration of questions
that may arise, either independently or in relation with committees
of other institutions.
Purroses.—The avowed activities of the association are directed
toward fostering and protecting the electrical and related industries
in Great Britain through cooperative action, particularly in the following
 capacities:
(a) As a central organization providing means for the discussion
of and speedy action on all questions affecting the industries.
(3) As the voice of the united industries in agreement or difference,
especially with—the legislature, the Government, municipal, local and
public authorities, carriers, and kindred institutions.
(¢) As a promoter of business in colonial and foreign markets.
(d) As a diffuser of confidential and general information.
(e) As an arbitrator of disputes.
(f) As a promoter and controller of exhibitions.
(9) As a promoter of cooperative publicity in the interest of the
industries.
The association further provides machinery for the prosecution of
claims before the Government, municipal corporations, and the board
of trade, and against common carriers. Government bills and home
office regulations affecting the electrical and allied industries receive
prompt and practical attention.
Export activities.—Conditions in the export trade have been
studied, activity therein stimulated, the errors of others avoided, and
a more profitable field secured for national competition. Conferences
have been held with British colonial authorities respecting tariff
measures. Over-seas committees in the colonies and in foreign countries
 have been appointed, and the efforts of these committees have
been directed along practical lines—such as reports on (1) the chief
handicaps to British trade, susceptible of removal through the exercise

Statement of the functions of the association by its secretary.