The proposed new structure (detailed in the March 2002 issue of the BGS Newsletter) is based on devolution to four national councils.

Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales effectively already have national management structures in place, but a Council for England will need to be created to serve as a forum for the 14 existing English regions.

At its meeting on 23 May, BGS Council agreed that the President should convene an “interim administration” for England. In consultation with the English regional branches the Interim Administration will develop proposals for a permanent English Council, to take office by no later than October 2004. During the transition period the Interim Administration will deal with key issues in the health service and the Society relating to England.

It is the intention of the Interim Administration to maintain a good two-way communication with the English regional branches. Therefore the existing English members of the current UK Council will continue to act as their regions’ national representatives.

The first meeting of the Interim Administration will be held in September. Subsequent meetings will be at two monthly intervals.
For further information on the Interim Administration please email:
Louise-Wykes@bgs.org.uk

Stop Press - Legal delays
While the process of devolution is proceeding smoothly, it will take longer than anticipated to effect the legal revision of the BGS Constitution. It is now expected that this will be available for approval by the membership at an extraordinary meeting to coincide with the Spring Meeting in April 2003.

Louise Wykes
BGS Office

Members of the Interim Administration for England
Chair: Prof Cameron Swift
Dr Peter Belfield
Dr David Black
Dr Beverley Castleton
Dr Ian Donald
Dr Margot Gosney
Dr Ian Hastie
Dr Roger Lewis
Dr David Maisey
Dr Finbarr Martin
Prof Graham Mulley
Dr Chris Turnbull
Dr Doug MacMahon