Russell Foundation Shaky

Lord Bertrand Arthur William Russell was born on May 18th, 1872 and died on February 2nd, 1970. During his life he made his name as one of the greatest men who has ever lived. To quote him: Three passions, simple but overwhelmingly strong, have governed my life: the longing for love, the search for knowledge, and unbearable pity for the suffering of mankind.' This last was one factor that made him truly remarkable, for there are few who are so influential that feel let alone care about the plight of other people. It often led him to actions that were unpopular or controversial.

His pacifist activities during the First World War resulted in an order from the War Office that he be not allowed into any prohibited area. Prohibited areas were those where enemy spies were least wanted to penetrate. Then, for writing in an article that American soldiers could be used as strike-breakers in England, 'an occupation to which (they are) accustomed when at home', he was imprisoned for six months.

In 1955 he initiated and was the major driving force behind a manifesto signed by ten eminent scientists, including Albert Einstein, of both capitalist and communist ideologies. This statement brought attention to the dangers of nuclear warfare and called for a conference of scientists to consider matters related to such dangers. This lead to a number of conferences being held which in turn played a large part in the creation of the partial Test-ban Treaty. Though unsatisfactory this was a sign that East and West could work together and was caused, originally, by Bertrand Russell.

To gain the attention of people and focus it on nuclear weapons; to struggle against oppression, war and the arms race the Bertrand Russell Peace Foundation was formed in 1963.

This organisation, among other things, sent representatives to distant countries to collect information required for its work. One of the most notable results of this was to find out something of the truth as regards atrocities that occurred in Vietnam. Of course, such activities required money. Many people of different countries helped with gifts and although the Foundation has always had financial problems it has survived to the present day.

However, in October of last year a letter from Countess Edith Russell. Bertrand Russell's wife, was published in the Dominion telling of two threats which imperilled the Foundation's entire future. One was the intention of the local authorities of the City of Nottingham, where the Foundation's headquarters are at Bertrand Russell House, to bulldoze these buildings to realign a road This plan has been over ruled by the Government.

The other problem is not yet overcome. This is that the Inland Revenue are seeking to change the law so a retrospective tax can be imposed on gifts received by the Foundation. If the High Court decides in the Inland Revenue's favour the amount the Foundation is liable to pay would increase from around 6,000 pounds to over 35,000 pounds (sterling). Up until now the fund launched to meet this possibility has raised 14,000 pounds.

If you wish to help the Foundation survive you can either donate money to the Bertrand Russell Appeal Fund, c/o 32 Mahoe Street, Linden and it will be sent to England from there; or you could send a postal note direct to Bertrand Russell House, Gamble Street, Nottingham, NG7 4ET, England. Please help prevent the destruction of one of Bertrand Russell s most important works.