PRESIDENT'S COLUMN


Over the past twelve months, your Federation has grown stronger in several important ways.


Administration: We now have an established Secretariat and meeting facility at Hemel Hempstead.


Finance: Despite the additional costs of our secretariat our finances remain strong, as our accounts show.


Lobbying: Excellent conduits now exist with several Government departments, and complementary organisations in UK and Overseas.


Training: An NVQ for plant operatives is in the final stages of development.


Changed Constitution: Now more flexibility should enable even greater short-term contribution by members.


Used Oil and Waste Packaging: We have given considered advice to members and to Government, in the members' interests.


Market Research: We have studied the state of trade, the extent to which members use modern management practices and the credibility of our Federation. The work has been essential to future planning.


Despite substantial progress having been made - in large measure due to Rod Parker's conscientiousness and enthusiasm as our first Executive Director - news of such progress has not always reached the membership. This is not a new problem, but it does need early resolution, and three steps have been taken to improve the situation.


LUBE Magazine has undergone long overdue updating. The content should now satisfy a


wider audience. AN ATTITUDE SURVEY is now being undertaken with all member companies, to


check support for our plans, and to find out what else is wanted. FIVE VICE-PRESIDENTS increase our ability to communicate, and they are keen to act


as a two-way conduit with Council. Otherwise, it has been a fairly normal year! The Overseas Technical Visit to Slovnaft near Bratislava was a considerable success, and


David Seex has agreed to manage the 1996 programme. Two very successful Seminars have been held and branch social functions have been well supported.


For the future, two key programmes are in place. Signing up to a tough Code of Ethics


will raise industry standards. Secondly, our partnership with the Lubricants Consulting Company will enable the Federation to improve the competitiveness of the Lubricants Industry. By picking up the baton, the BLF will contribute to the UK's international competitiveness too.


Finally, as I pass on the Presidential baton, I do want to thank everyone who has answered


my requests for assistance over the past two years. They know who they are and, since over 100 people have been involved in time bound Task Groups, my successor should not be short of support.


R.I. S. Meadows OBE- National President.


R. I. S. Meadows OBE National President


Accurate Statistics: Over 90% of volumes are incorporated in returns. From 1996, comparisons against prior years will be possible.


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