Society of Construction Arbitrators

SIR MICHAEL LATHAM APPOINTED TO REVIEW ACT

The Government has announced that it has appointed Sir Michael Latham to review the workings of the Housing Grants, Construction and Regeneration Act 1996 following representations from various trade bodies in the Industry. More details can be found on the DTI website. A number of members of the Society are on the Adjudication Panels of the bodies listed in the Press Announcement as having been contracted by Sir Michael. The consultation period is rumoured as being very short.

JOHN UFF ELECTED PRESIDENT FOR THREE YEARS

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.

PROPOSAL FOR A SUPPLEMENTARY ARBITRATION PROCEDURE

The Review Body has been asked by the Committee of the Society to draft a supplementary procedure to reflect the lessons of adjudication whilst allowing for a more detailed consideration of the evidence than is possible in 28 days. The principal initial suggestions include a time limit of perhaps three months, or 100 days, within which the Award must be produced which can only be amended by the agreement of both parties.

NEW MEMBERS

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
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