This is a candidate statement for the position of UNA-UK Trustee. Please note that this profile has not been edited for factual accuracy or language, and that UNA-UK does not accept responsibility for any mis-statements of fact.
It has been a privilege to represent the South & South West of England on the Board of UNA-UK for the last four and a half years. The Board holds the Executive in high esteem and felt they needed to support the proposals put forward to the Extraordinary General Meeting, which were passed by over 75 per cent of members that voted, in order to streamline the organisation and eradicate the operating deficit.
However, I had a strong belief that if we are to encourage the spread of democracy across the world, we ourselves must also have a democratic basis. I argued strongly that the membership representatives on the Board should have the majority, but I was one of only three people who voted against having only two nationally-elected representatives. I still think it is vital that there is a dynamic link between members, the Executive and the Board if we are to retain our influence as a membership-based organisation with a strong constituency.
For two people to represent the views of all the members in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland is going to be a daunting prospect, but one that has to be energetically pursued if we are to ensure we remain the dominant force and think tank that UNA-UK has become.
Many original ideas come from the members, whose joint experience covers an amazing range of subjects. I would hope to be able to process these thoughts and balance the proposals with the vital job of ensuring that the present financial deficit is not only eradicated, but a working surplus is established.
I hope I have a reputation for original thought and a constructive frame of mind while being prepared to speak out when necessary, and I would hope that I could fulfil this difficult role honourably.