New Zealand Studies review

In view of concerns about the future of the Centre for New Zealand Studies at Birkbeck, University of London, further constructive discussions took place last week between representatives of the University of London, Birkbeck and the New Zealand High Commission. All shared the view that the Centre has completed some significant work since it was established and has contributed a great deal to the cultural and academic community in the United Kingdom.

However, the current Director's period of secondment at the College will come to an end at the end of September and an endowment has yet to be secured that would ensure that the Centre could continue in the longer term. We feel, therefore, that there is a need for a period of reflection and review to consider the way forward and also assess longer-term funding options.

We have come to the conclusion that the best course of action at the present time is to wind down the Centre in its current form; review its mandate and operations; and to seek a way forward for studies related to New Zealand to continue at Birkbeck. Like the New Zealand Government, we are concerned to see the work initiated in the Centre for New Zealand Studies continue.

We are also considering the possibility of calling together a small group of senior academics involved in New Zealand studies to provide some advice on the best way forward. If such a group were to be formed, they would be expected to consult widely with interested parties.

We confirm that the resources donated to the Centre by the New Zealand Government, and other private individuals, will remain in the Centre's current premises under the care of the University of London, and that academics and other visitors will continue to have access to them. Resources which were the personal property of the Director will continue to be in his possession and it will be his decision as to whether they would remain in the Centre.

Birkbeck gives its full assurance that the studies of the current PhD students linked to the Centre will not be interrupted by any review process over the coming weeks. Moreover, the University of London is prepared to facilitate the continuation of some of the activities of the Centre during this time. Any enquiries about either of these should be directed to Professor Philip Dewe at Birkbeck: philip.dewe@bbk.ac.uk

Sir Graeme Davies, Vice-Chancellor, University of London

Professor David Latchman, Master, Birkbeck, University of London