The Board were very pleased at the number of members who responded to the recent ePoll on the subject of a Petition for a Royal Charter, and on the related matter of our name.
An overwhelming majority supported the Petition but, as expected, the proposition that we should change our name split members three ways. The Board is now considering how best to take matters forward in discussion with the Privy Council Office, the Engineering Council and other stakeholders. But of greater importance, the Board recognised, from the comments received from around the world, that there remained much misunderstanding amongst members on some issues and for this they accepted responsibility. Our principal objective over the next few months will be to engage more directly with members, not least through the aegis of the IGA. Led by our IP-elect, Richard Fowler, the Board will spend as much time as possible meeting Branch members, providing factual briefing and listening to members’ views.
We will provide regular updates on how matters are progressing, recognising that it is better to arrive at the right answer rather than to get a quick answer.