Summer of study ahead...

THE remit of the new panel is yet to be established, however, the five members, four of whom are yet to be appointed, are due to publish their remit on university governance within the next month.

They will then consult over the summer and report back to parliament by the end of the year.

At the moment, the specific responsibilities of each governing body are set out in each university's governing instruments.

However, the lengthy history of many institutions has led to variations and complexities.

In practice there is increasing similarity in the responsibilities and duties of governing bodies due to statute and the requirements of funding and regulatory bodies. There has also been a gradual trend away from a traditional "stakeholder" model of governance (often heavily influenced by local or professional bodies) towards a more performance-driven approach.

However, that has led to some being seen as aloof and being accused of appointing those on an "old boys' network" rather than on merit.

Generally, governing bodies are responsible for strategic plans, finance, resourcing, employment, estates, senior appointments and pay, audit and legal compliance.

Mike Russell pointed out the panel's key issues: intellectual freedom, community involvement and accountability to the taxpayers and government.