In a discussion between ITFS and George Reid on Radio 4’s consumer affairs programme, You & Yours, Mr Reid laid out his plans for the Review.

Bill Fraser of ITFS stressed the importance of consulting widely with the Trust’s 310,000 members and learning from past mistakes. Mr Reid pledged he would move from issues-options-recommendations by end-June 2010 and promised to listen to Members’ views. He acknowledged the need for our views to be heard equally as those of his ‘distinguished’ team of experts in audit, finance, government and heritage who will work pro-bono because they recognise the ‘centrality of the Trust to the quality of life in Scotland’.

When asked about decisions taken under the present governance arrangements, Mr Reid commented they had not been taken ‘as transparently as they might have been’ and he hoped that that a future three year rolling strategic plan would prevent more ’sudden unexpected decisions’ of the type taken in 2009 which lead to closures and redundancy.

In a separate message to ITFS, Mr Reid has invited us to meet shortly and present an initial overview. We urge our supporters to communicate specific issues to ITFS in advance of that meeting.

You can listen to the interview here:
George Reid/ITFS. You & Yours Radio 4 – 20th Nov 2009

In a message to ITFS supporters, George Reid has assured us that the voice of ITFS supporters will be heard.

Mr Reid writes: ‘I am very conscious of the need for transparency, particularly in a large membership organisation like NTS. I am clear that the review has to be independent and robust, with recommendations which are evidence-based and sustainable. This will involve study of resources as well as organisation. The fundamental question will be “Fit for Purpose?” ‘
‘My commitment is to preserving and promoting the heritage of Scotland and finding the best way for NTS to contribute to this goal. I have no commitment to any group or view inside NTS. I shall clearly engage in the widest possible consultation, yourself included. For the stability of the organisation and its staff, I hope for an informed internal debate in which “In Trust for Scotland” will feel comfortable that its voice is being heard.’

You can also hear an interview with Mr Reid and ITFS’s comments broadcast on Radio Scotland:
The Reid review – Radio Scotland 9th November