Page 19 - Microsoft Word - The Constructor 2016 A5V28

The Company Officers

Many may not appreciate what the Company owes to the Master's partner; The Mistress. Janet fully
supported me during my year, both representing the Company at functions as well as supporting me
with many of the practical things that go with the office. As with most Mistresses she is not a
member of the Company and we're extremely fortunate that partners of our Masters give so freely
to our Company.
When I assumed the mantle I had no burning desire to instigate sweeping change, believing my
predecessors had left the ship pretty much on course. I wished to continue with the development of
the Company through growing our membership, encouraging more Freemen to become Liverymen
and increasing the Charitable Trust's capital. In addition, I was keen for the workings of the Company
to be more transparent and inclusive with as many members as possible contributing to how we run
our affairs. None of these initiatives might appear particularly dynamic, however the fact is we have
now reached our optimum membership of high calibre construction professionals, the Charitable
Trust is developing a healthy capital fund, and there is more opportunity for members to be involved
with Company activities. However, encouraging Freemen to move up to Livery seems to remain a
challenge.
Whilst there were many highlights during my year, there were also low points, particularly the
coming to a head of our negotiations with HMRC over the PAYE and NI status of our Clerk and Beadle.
The Revenue had targeted City Livery Companies and we were not alone, so despite a visit to the
House of Commons to lobby my MP, it was no surprise when the Revenue came out on top. Anyway
the matter was concluded and we were able to move on poorer and wiser.
A highlight was my Master's Weekend in Paris when Janet and I were joined by 27 members and their
partners for a truly memorable couple of days in the French Capital. Setting off at about 10.00 am
from St. Pancras International, suitably refreshed by a glass of Möet & Chandon, we arrived at our
centrally based billet next to The Louvre in the early afternoon. We then indulged ourselves with a
sumptuous dinner on the River Seine, a guided tour of the magnificent Palace of Versailles, a formal
dinner at The Hotel St. James & Albany (with exceptional wine I recall). We concluded with a wander
through the bohemian district of Montmartre, including a visit to the landmark church of Sacré-Coeur
before setting off for home … and the sun shone!

At our December Court, I suggested we consider applying for a Royal Charter. This was a stated
objective in our Ordinances and, as we were growing in stature and were well regarded in the City,
the timing seemed right. I was therefore surprised when I received a cool reception to my proposal.
I concluded the short debate by offering a paper for the February Court meeting. This set out the
benefits of incorporation and the protection that would be given to our office holders. I said it also
gave us the opportunity to review our ordinances and amend these if appropriate, and clearly it
would give us the kudos of chartered status. It was agreed to take the matter forward and we were
then very fortunate when Tim Nicholson offered to lead on this. He took us through the process
such that we received our Royal Charter from The Duke of Gloucester three years later.
It is a remarkable year, as I'm sure all Past Masters will agree. However, it is the support and
vibrancy of the membership that makes our Company great and with the future leadership in good
hands, the Constructors will, I am sure, continue to go from strength to strength.”

Autumn 2016 | The Journal of the Worshipful Company of Constructors | 19