At the UKIPG Main Group Meetings on 26th September and 12th December 2011, it was decided to change the way of working and the pattern of meetings. There will no longer be quarterly 'Main Group Meetings', although the (slightly renamed) sub-groups will continue to meet (in person or virtually) as required. This process had already started over the last two years, with the March Main Group meeting being replaced by a 'professional ethics and trust' conference.
To provide overall governance and accountability of UKIPG, there will be one annual General Assembly meeting, normally on the last Monday in June each year. Each full member body will be able to send two representatives to this meeting. In addition, any co-opted Chairman of a UKIPG Special Interest Group will be invited to attend, irrespective of whether he or she is connected to a UKIPG full member body. This General Assembly will be responsible for the continued existence of UKIPG, for appointments of Office Holders and Secretary, for guidance on the future work plan and priorities, and for approving membership fees, overall expenses and budget.
The formal part of the General Assembly may be complemented by another event of topical interest, possibly involving guest speakers, discussion seminars etc.
Between General Assembly Meetings, there will be scope for other plenary events, which may be limited to UKIPG members and invited participants, or may also be accesible to the public at cost. Such events may be evening, half-day or full day seminars or conferences, and will provide networking opportunities for the representatives.
Early in 2012, a third 'Professional Ethics and Trust' Conference is being planned, to deal with privacy of information. Further details to follow - currently suggested date is 27th March.
The 2012 General Assembly is likely to be held in the afternoon of Monday 25th June.