The appointment of Rupert Emerson '21, associate professor of Government, to a position in the Department of Interior by Harold L. Ickes was announced yesterday.

Emerson is to head the division of territories and island possessions, which includes Alaska, Hawaii, Puerto Rico, and the Virgin Islands. Arthur N. Holcombe '06, professor of Government, termed Emerson's post the number one position in the administration of overseas dependencies.

In his new office, he will issue no commands. Instead he will act as an intermediary and coordinator between the possessions and the central government, keeping in touch with Congress on all legislation relating to them. Emerson will also formulate policy for the management and the bettering of living conditions of the possessions.

Coordinates Colonies

Emerson's post, originally known as the Bureau of Insular Affairs, was created to coordinate the governments of the colonies. The department of State, the War Department, and the Department of the Navy each govern the possessions under their respective jurisdictions.

Although the post is to be a full time job, Emerson will not resign from the faculty. He will secure an indefinite leave of absence. Emerson is now in Washington to become acquainted with his new duties. Returning on Sunday, he will make arrangements to assume his post in the middle of June.

Holcombe Pleased

Professor Holcombe stated. "It is an excellent appointment and a well-earned one. It is gratifying to have a member of the Department of Government elected to such a responsible position. It is a tribute to Emerson's research and writing."

Payson S. Wild, assistant professor of Government, believes that Emerson is an excellent choice for the post, for "he is skilled in the problems of colonial and backward nations. His book, 'Malasia,' is an authoritative study of the British and Dutch possessions in South East Asia. Emerson is genuinely interested in the post."