The Diploma needs reprinting, if only to change the date, but Council thinks the opportunity should be taken to redesign and modernise the Diploma, and wishes to have membersí views on this.

With the number of elections averaging only one in every two years, the print run is very small, but in these days of computer graphics and desk top publishing the small number is irrelevant and the scope for a new design is wide open.
A few questions to start the ball rolling:

Should the diploma be totally redesigned to a modern look?

Should the style remain the same, with copperplate and gothic lettering?

Should the size remain the same (nearly A3) or something nearer A4?

Should the layout be ëlandscapeí or ëportraití style?

Should we continue to use heavy ëparchmentí paper?

Should colour be used?

Should the wording be framed?

Should the Societyís logo be included?

It should be mentioned that Council is considering changes to the laws governing the election of Honorary or Corresponding Fellows, but this will not obviate the need for new diplomas.

We currently have six Honorary and twelve Corresponding Fellows. At present, Law 3.2(a) states that ëthe Society may confer Honorary Fellowship in recognition of merit or achievement in the science of geology or for service to the Society.í Law 3.2(b) states that ëthe Society may elect as Corresponding Fellows persons of scientific merit or achievement resident outside the United Kingdom who by membership of the Society may be enabled or assisted to extend and foster links between the Society and the science of geology abroad.

Please put your ideas on paper for Councilís consideration