High-voltage electron microscopy in the UK

This paper contains a brief account of the recent history of the development of High-Voltage Electron Microscopy in the United Kingdom. In particular the basis on which the Science Research Council decided to set up a number of High-Voltage Electron Microscope facilities in universities is described, and the functions and management of these facilities are outlined. The various steps in the decision-making process are discussed. The motivation for High-Voltage Electron Microscopy, the extent to which expectations have been fulfilled, the achievements so far, and future promise are considered. The paper attempts to fill some of the gaps, and to remove some misconceptions in a recent paper in Research Policy by Leach (1973).