Address by the MW The Pro Grand Master The Most Hon. the Marquess of Northampton, DL at the Quarterly Communication of the United Grand Lodge of England on 13 December 2006

Brethren, we held the first meeting of the Rulers’ Forum here yesterday with representatives of the ten groups and have got off to a good start.  We discussed a variety of topics which are relevant to the future of English Freemasonry.  The minutes of the meeting will be widely circulated and I hope that any Brother who has any good ideas for the well being of the Craft will pass them to the Forum through his local group.

The Centre for Research into Freemasonry at the Sheffield University continues to make good progress.  Many of you will have seen reports of the events in the spring, accompanying the opening of the Centre’s new premises, named after the pioneering Masonic scholar, Professor Douglas Knoop, a Past Master of Quatuor Coronati Lodge No. 2076.  The University of Sheffield’s teaching affairs committees have now approved an MA programme in the history of Freemasonry and Fraternalism, the first such degree in the world, which will be launched during 2007-8.

I would like to give you an update on the appointment of the Grand Secretary.  The final selection process is taking place currently and we will be making an announcement shortly.  Finally, on behalf of my fellow Rulers, I would like to take this opportunity of wishing you and your families a very happy and peaceful Festive Season and a prosperous New Year.