Response to queries from RICS member Anthony Walker FRICS

We are committed to actively listening, engaging and ensuring members remain at the forefront of the ongoing positive transformation at RICS.

Following stimulating discussions at our recent member engagement 'Shaping the Future' event series, and insightful feedback in an article by Anthony Walker FRICS, we are addressing the key points raised.

1. Levitt Review, Chapter 5: Alison Levitt KC recommended that chapter 5 of the report should not be published as it included unsubstantiated allegations that were outside of her review scope. The leadership team at RICS is not looking to hide anything, but it would be wrong to publish unconfirmed content or negatively impact well-intentioned individuals who supported the Review anonymously.
2. SRB resignations in June 2023: We have always strived to be transparent and open about this, signalled by the fact that a comprehensive Q&A was published on rics.org shortly after the former SRB resigned. Once we had our new SRB Chair on board, we progressed with the EG interview referenced to cover additional points.
3. Modus and journals: We know that many members would like to see written publications made available. I am pleased to say that members will be able to opt in to receive printed Modus and journals. We are working on this right now with a view to bringing it in at the end of the year.
4. Governing Council (GC) elections: It isn’t fair to ask any GC members to step down before their term ends, when they have dedicated their time and expertise to serve the profession.
   We are seeing a good response to the campaign that went live last week and it is essential that we encourage our members to stand for the 11 seats that are currently available. By doing so we can ensure we have an effective GC - you can apply to stand here. The best way to ensure a competitive election this year is to stand for election.
   
5. Electing the Senior Vice President: You can view a recent update from Harriet Kemp, NRC Chair here. I would add that we are absolutely open to the possibility of the broader membership electing the SVP and the voice of members will be heard – but as this would require a member vote resulting in a change to our Bye-laws, which needs Privy Council approval, we need to incorporate this matter and others into the next independent review in 2025.
6. Independent regulation within RICS : Our senior executive officer, Standards and Regulation, Chris Alder, sets out why this is the most effective model here.
7. RICS registered firms: The case referenced is currently subject to an appeal, so we cannot release further details at this stage, but our SRB Chair Nigel Clarke shared this update after the outcome of the tribunal which resulted in the expulson of the member involved. Nigel will issue a further update post appeal, including our review of the case in question and any changes to future policies and processes, following this review.
8. Membership checks: Again, it is not appropriate to share any details currently, but we will publish the outcome of our review post-appeal.