Metric and British Measures

Abstract

IN view of the vigorous and sustained efforts of the exponents of the metric system, and the eminent names that are to be found among them, it is perhaps not a little surprising that it makes so little progress towards general acceptance in Great Britain. The Weights and Measures Act of 1897 legalised the metric denominations for use in trade, and was expected to lead to its advantages being so generally recognised that the Imperial system would soon disappear. Twenty-five years have now elapsed, and the position is almost unchanged. In fact, the policy of compulsory introduction of the metric system by law, which formerly was always strongly supported, was ruled out by the Metric Committee of the Conjoint Board of Scientific Societies in its Report in 1919, and though the report of this Committee was not adopted by the Board, the subject of compulsion is not likely again to be seriously considered for some time at least. Even the Decimal Association has recognised this position, and now advocates a modification of the Imperial system which will serve as a first step towards facilitating the ultimate end it has in view. A modification of some sort is now being called for with increasing insistence, so that it may be desirable to examine the principal considerations involved.