Agenda item

Pursuant to the decision of the Court of 13 October 2016, the Lord Mayor invited Wendy Mead O.B.E. to take up the office of Chief Commoner for the ensuing year.

Resolved unanimously – That this Honourable Court wishes to extend to,

Michael Welbank, M.B.E

its heartfelt gratitude for the manner in which he has undertaken the role of Chief Commoner over the past year.

Michael has a wonderful knowledge of how the Corporation works – and crucially, who to talk to to get things done. His charisma, approachability and his wicked sense of humour have meant that he has been a pleasure for both Members and Officers to work with.

Having enjoyed an extremely successful worldwide career in architecture, it is perhaps no surprise that his year in office saw him achieve success in another field of development – that of Member Development, which he has championed with aplomb, particularly the creation of the New Members’ Induction Programme.

His successful past Chairmanships within the City Corporation, of the Planning & Transportation and the Hampstead Heath Highgate Wood & Queen’s Park Committees, saw him develop significant expertise in navigating difficult and complex issues, such as flood management and road danger reduction – experience which stood him in good stead for this role.

He has been a charismatic host at a number of civic and hospitality events and we know that he will take away fond memories of his year, including high profile Freedom Ceremonies for iconic figures such as the actor Eddie Redmayne - and also perhaps of his exploits dancing around the maypole at the Pearly Kings and Queens event in October!

In taking leave of the Chief Commoner and in thanking him formally and sincerely, his colleagues wish to express their appreciation, not only for his enthusiasm and hospitality during the past year, but also for his consideration and courtesy and they wish him continued happiness and success in the future.

Michael Welbank was heard in reply and also took the opportunity to express the gratitude of the Court to the following Members, who had been unsuccessful in achieving re-election, for their service:

-       John Alfred Barker, O.B.E.

-       Alex Bain-Stewart, J.P.

-       Alexander John Cameron Deane

-       William Barrie Fraser, O.B.E.

-       Stanley Ginsburg, J.P.

-       Julian Henry Malins, Q.C.

-       Gareth Wynford Moore

-       Christopher Punter

-       Ann Marjorie Francescia Pembroke

-       Adam Fox McCloud Richardson

-       Virginia Rounding