LI Extraordinary Meeting.

June 2009. First to speak was Tony Edwards. Very sensible ideas and wants to improve freedom of opinion throughout the LI. Brian Clouson the spoke. He feels LI acted too late to reduce costs, the new offices were only meant to have 10 workers, the library and bookable meeting spaces for members. The supposed investment of Bernard Mews is now costing money, due to a high mortgage and has nearly brought about bankruptcy. He wanted to know why are so many senior people are just chosen and not elected. Colin Godrum responded to say that staffing was increased due to need. Jo Watkins continued to say that the LI moved out of BM as it became too small. Marketing & PR staff were taken on to promote the LI better. Sue Illman spoke for the LI saying she was elected and that as she has done much for the LI she feels justified. Bill Cairns felt that young and old are not engaged enough on the Board and the Charter is used to restrain growth. Annie Coombs, Noel Farrer, Jo Watkins and Tim Gale want all at the LI to act together. Robert Camlin felt the LI Board were not listening to members. Tom Robinson was outspoken. I was very surprised at the lack of relationship between Executives and members, I appreciate all such bodied have politics, but concerned that people are not working together and promoting our industry in a much more positive light.