Proposed by: Ian Taylor, Sys3 Ltd
Seconded by: Kathy Duthoit, Netside Ltd

Additional statement from Robert Fox

Election Statement

Robert Fox  BB-Online UK Ltd

I, and most members that I talk to, believe that over the years, technically and administratively, Nominet have done an excellent job.  I also believe the plan to fund a charitable foundation is a very laudable idea and should be pursued with the utmost vigour.

Reduce Registration Fees
My only criticism is that for the past several years they have taken far more in fees from the membership than is justified by the costs.

I believe that future fees should be in line with costs. The accounts for 2007 show that Nominet can continue to cover their expenses should fees be reduced by as much as 30%, to £3.50.

Return Fees by way of Rebate
The current credit squeeze is likely to have a knock on effect for our industry as it ripples out through the economy. With this in mind, I suggest that a portion of the £11.5 million that Nominet holds in cash and short term investments, should be used to make a significant rebate to the members in respect of past fees paid.  If elected I would endeavour to help the board find ways in which this could be achieved.

There is no valid reason why Nominet should continue to hold such excessive reserves of cash. The business is a monopoly, able to recover whatever costs it incurs from the membership.

Retain Board Representation for the Members
Among the resolutions being proposed at the forthcoming AGM is one to increase the size of the board by allowing the executive to appoint additional directors themselves, without their being elected by the membership. Nominet has built its’ reputation by listening and acting on the advice of its’ members, now it intends to permanently remove the vital link between the board and the membership. I intend to vote against this resolution (resolution 6) and I strongly advise all members to vote against this resolution.

Increase member participation on the Board
With the Board wishing to appoint outside directors, the power of the members could be compromised. I believe that to restore balance, the interests of members will be best served if the membership directly elects the chairman.

If I am elected I will do my utmost to implement these changes.

If you have any comments or questions on this manifesto please  E-mail me at vote@bb-online.co.uk

Curriculum Vitæ

Robert  Fox

After graduating as an Electronics Engineer, I started work in the City of London as a Field Support Engineer for a computer service company.

After 1986 my interests were concentrated in software and telecommunications, working as a support manager for an online database company and subsequently managing teams of engineers creating a nationwide communications network.

The next step was to set up my own business in 1988. We developed communications software and subsequently developed a number of databases for various clients. In doing so we undertook consultancy work for a number of blue chip companies including British Telecom, Telecom Eirean, The European Bank, Barclays De Zoete Wedd Securities Ltd., County NatWest Securities Ltd., and also The Department of Trade and Industry.

In 1990 I helped form a new business in Ireland. We created and maintained a comprehensive financial and credit database of all Irish limited companies. I held the position of Technical Director there until 2004.

In 1997 I set up my current business, the international domain name registration agents, BB Online UK Ltd. We became Nominet members in 1998, ICANN accredited since 2000, and then the first operational NZ registrar in the Northern hemisphere. Currently BB Online is accredited to, or members of some 17 major country code registries.

Interests
Fellow of the Royal Society Of Arts
My other interests include theatre, fitness, travel and skiing.