The I.A.E. Annual Banquet
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'THE annual banquet and dance of 1 the Institution of Automobile Engineers was held on October 16 at the Dorchester Hotel, London, the President, Captain J. S. Irving, M.I.Mech.E. (the famous designer of the " Golden Arrow "), occupying the chair.
The President of the Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders, Mr. J. Albert Thomson, LL.D., J.P., gave the toast of the Institution. He referred to the cordial relationship between the Institution and the Society. Its prestige never stood higher, its influence was never greater, and its work never more important, particularly in connection with, research and schemes for training apprentices and issuing repairs certificates.
Captain Irving referred to his pride in his position as President. He never expected to attain such an honour. He thought that he had reached the summit when, a year or two ago, he was awarded the Institution's medal. He considered that the automobile industry was only on the threshold of its development. There was a close liaison between technical and commercial development, and the S.M.M. and T. had encouraged the Institution since its early days. It was now up to the Institution to reciprocate.
Following the toast of the guests, proposed by Mr. A. J. Hancock, Sir Malcolm Campbell, M.B.E., referred to the work of the ;Institution in every sphere in which the internal-combustion engine is used. Commenting upon the President's remark that we had not reached finality in design, he mentioned that Sir Ernest W. Petter designed his first motor in 1892. This had the engine at the back of the chassis; possibly this would be considered the correct place in future. He asked if the possibility of developing an aero-automobile had been considered. This could have wings which would fold back to enable the vehicle to run on the road.