Organizational questions and research plans were discussed at the third session of the South Pacific Commission which was held in Anse Vata, Noumea, New Caledonia, from May 7 to 17, 1949 under the chairmanship of Mr. J. B. D. Pennick of the Netherlands. The Commission approved a work program for the Research Council in the fields of health, economic conditions and social development. Among the specific studies authorized for the following year were 1) methods of improving collection and dissemination of epidemiological intelligence; 2)collection of data on diet and nutrition of communities and individuals; 3) study of atoll and low island economy; 4) study of fishery methods; 5) review and summary of information on cash crops; 6) survey of facilities for professional and technical training in the South Pacific; 7) the use of visual aids in education among island people; and 8) study of techniques for teaching literacy.