The guest speaker at next week's meeting is Steve Andrews from the DTI's Office of Science & Innovation who will update members on the RoHS (Restriction of Hazardous Substances Regulations) Directive which passed into UK law on Saturday 1 July. The agenda will also address PLASA's recent lobbying activities and its appointment of a political & parliamentary consultancy, which led directly to the tabling of parliamentary questions on RoHS. Energy Minister Malcolm Wicks answered the questions on behalf of government, and later attended a private meeting with PLASA CEO Matthew Griffiths and representatives from PLASA member companies. Also key to the Forum discussions will be advance notice of the forthcoming EuP (Energy-using Products) Directive, which may have the potential to hit manufacturers even harder than RoHS.
The Forum will also provide an opportunity for PLASA to update members on recent initiatives, including a targeted press campaign to raise awareness of key issues, preparatory work on a survey of pay scales for the sector, plans for the introduction of a searchable database of tender and contract information and progress on its qualifications work.
Through hosting the regular meetings, PLASA hopes to create an active network of manufacturers to improve the commercial prospects of PLASA member companies. The meetings are backed by an online discussion forum so that all PLASA members worldwide have an opportunity to be part of the ongoing dialogue.
The Forum runs from 2.30pm-5.00pm. If you are interested in attending, please call Ruth on +44 (0)1323 410335 or e-mail at the addresss below.
(Chris Henry)
