UISTRinUTOR’s REPORT FOR 1951 
103 
DISTRIBUTOR’S REPORT FOR 1951 
Although the number of specimens sent in for distribution is still 
far too small, there has been a slight increase in the number both of 
contributors and of sheets contributed, and it can only be hoped that 
the Exchange Section is about to consolidate its position. 
In most cases the material was carefully selected and well prepared, 
but one is forced to the conclusion that the study of the major critical 
genera is being left almost entirely to the few people who are recognised 
authorities. This is regrettable, as only the widespread collection and 
exchange of critical material can provide information on problems of 
distribution and at the same time encourage the interchange of opinion 
on identification which is so invaluable. 
It is good to be able to welcome three new members to this Section — 
Dr. G. W. T. H. Fleming; the Herbarium of the Botany School, 
Cambridge; and the Division of Botany, Department of Agriculture, 
Ottawa. This last unexpected and extremely fine contribution of 
Canadian material brings a fresh interest to the Distribution, recently 
concerned almost entirely with the British flora, and indicates a possible 
and welcome widening of its scope. In all cases the genera sent out are 
represented in this country, and valuable material has been distributed 
of certain species whose rarity precludes iiormal collection here. A few 
European duplicates of British species have also been included by mem- 
bers, and it can only be suggested that a more general exchange of 
critical material with botanists in Scandinavia and Europe through 
this Section could be of very considerable interest. 
The thanks of the Society are due to the following botanists for 
their identifications and notes on the specimens contributed: J. P. M. 
Brenan, J. E. Dandy and Dr. G. Taylor, R. A. Graham, W. O. Howarth, 
C. E. Hubbard, R. D. Meikle, N. Y. Sandwith, V. S. Summerhayes, 
Dr. S. M. Walters, Dr. E. F. Warburg, Dr. C. West and Dr. D. P. 
Young. 
Thanks are also due to the Committee and Director of the Public 
Library and Museum, Carlisle, for permission to carry out the Exchange 
in the Museum. 
C. W. Mxjirhead. 
Carlisle, April 1952. 
