News from the Society

The DTI has published a consultation document following the Latham Report. It outlines the Government's proposal to improve both the payment provisions and the adjudication provisions of the Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act. See the Society's original suggestions below. Copies can be obtained by clicking here.

Very recently Sir Michael Latham presented his first report to the Department of Trade and Industry. As might be expected there was not unanimity concerning the payment provisions but all seem to be agreed that 'pay when certified' clauses and their clones should be outlawed. On adjudication he comments that the Graham Watts report of the CIC identifies some problems and deserve a wider discussion. A short consultation period is suggested and it is hoped to get out the consultation document in the 'Autumn'!

Harold Crowter, FRICS FCIArb FHKIArb FFB, was appointed Honorary Secretary of the Society at the Annual General Meeting in succession to Ian Salisbury, MA(Oxon) DiplArch RIBA FCIArb.

An address by John Uff, President, at a joint meeting of the Society and the Society of Construction Law at Kings College London.

A summary of the main issues to have emerged so far.

John Uff QC, Professor of Construction Law at Kings College, London was elected at the President of the Society for the next three years. Traditionally the Presidents have been drawn from a different profession in rotation - Architect, Engineer, Quantity Surveyor and Lawyer. Starting his professional life as an engineer, he very early in his career decided to become a barrister, and John Uff quickly rose throught the ranks to QC and bencher of Grays Inn. He is a leading arbitrator both at home in the UK and overseas.

The Society has welcomed the following new members in 2004:

• Arbitrator member: Peter Aeberli
• Supporting members: John Rushton, Stuart Kennedy
• Overseas Members: Peter Caldwell, Paul Gelinas

The CIMAR Guidance Notes have been revised and updated and they include an appendix drafted by His Honour Judge Humphrey LLoyd QC on the subject of security for costs.

The Society has welcomed the following new members in 2002:

• Arbitrator members: Cyril Churn, Charles Ellis, Tony Ensom, The Rt Hon The Lord David Hacking
• Supporting members: Roger Button, David Loosemore
• Overseas Member: Paul A Karrer