There has been growing concern among members of the College about the possible effects on health of rising unemployment; the Research Committee has been considering this and in particular has been exploring the possibility of encouraging further research in this field. Members of the Committee felt that on the whole general practitioners would be likely to see those affected in far greater numbers than psychiatrists. The Research Committee therefore organized a small symposium and invited representatives of the Social and Community Psychiatry Section and of the Research Division of the Royal College of General Practitioners to join it. The symposium was held at the College on 15 October 1982.

This paper considers the possible long-term consultant manpower requirements in England and Wales for child and adolescent psychiatry and its specialties, including psychotherapy and community child and adolescent psychiatry. It is based on papers previously prepared by the College Executive in relation to manpower requirements for child psychiatry (Royal College of Psychiatrists, 1973) and adolescent psychiatry (Royal College of Psychiatrists, 1976), and to the role, responsibilities and work of the child and adolescent psychiatrist (Royal College of Psychiatrists, 1978) and on discussions with the Department of Health and Social Security.

‘The Treatment of Anxiety’ is the theme of a seminar to be held at the Priory Hospital on 23 June 1983, with Sir Desmond Pond in the Chair. Topics include ‘The diagnosis of anxiety’ (Professor Anthony Clare, St Bartholomew's Hospital); ‘Are tranquillisers harmful?’ (Dr Desmond Kelly, The Priory Hospital); 'Stress control for professionals' (Dr Robert Sharpe, The Institute of Behaviour Therapy); and ‘The management of anxiety in general practice’ (Dr David Wheatley, The General Practitioner Research Group). Further information: Dr Desmond Kelly, The Priory Hospital, Priory Lane, London SW15 5JJ.

Over the past few years a number of policy statements concerning the needs of people with mental handicap have been published.

It has become the custom for our Annual General Meeting to be held at an interesting hospital, with a business meeting and discussions of a special topic in the mornings and, following lunch, the trainees of the Division are invited to present their research. As each year passes one is, yet again, impressed by their projects and their presentation. Currently they emanate almost exclusively from the Manchester trainees scheme. They are considerably influenced by Dr Peter Maguire.

A course on ‘Psychiatry of Late Life’ for psychiatrists, geriatricians and community physicians will be held from 18 to 22 July 1983 at the University of Birmingham. Accommodation is available, but places are limited to 30. Information: Mrs V. Gilbert, Administrative Assistant, Board of Graduate Clinical Studies, Medical School, Vincent Drive, Birmingham 15.