On Friday 6th June we held one of the most important events organised by our institution, the 127th Annual General Meeting. On this occasion, the meeting exclusively for members was held at the Spanish Chamber of Commerce premises. The Executive Committee of the Chamber presented the financial statements of 2013, as well as the full list of events and activities organised by the Chamber during that period.
Everything was ready for our members to enjoy the 127th AGM Lunch.
After the members’ meeting, the 127th AGM lunch was held at one of London’s most iconic landmarks: the House of Lords, within the Palace of Westminster. Numerous representatives from our member companies did not want to miss this special occasion, so much so the event was indeed sold out in a couple of weeks.
This activity was possible thanks to the kind hospitality of Lord Daniel Brennan, QC, who was our host on such a remarkable afternoon.
After the necessary security checks and once inside the House of Lords, our guests could enjoy the sunny weather at the terrace during the drinks reception. Many of them took the opportunity to snap some pictures at the impressive views, with the London Eye as the backdrop.
Lord Daniel Brennan, QC welcoming attendees.
The proceedings of the lunch started with H.E. the Ambassador of Spain leading the traditional loyal toasts in honour of the Queen of Great Britain and the King of Spain. It was then the turn of Lord Brennan, our host, to welcome us as his guests with an opening speech in which he made reference to his longstanding passion and admiration for Spain.
After the main course, the President of the Chamber, Javier Fernández Hidalgo began the round of speeches thanking our host Lord Brennan for having made possible the event. He also took this opportunity to thank our Patrons and members for their continuous support. More importantly, he proudly informed the assistants that since the last AGM the Chamber has gained 6 new Patrons.
The President of the Chamber Javier Fernández Hidalgo during his speech.
Our President then introduced Lord Bell, our Guest of Honour for the lunch. Lord Bell is the Chairman of Bell Pottinger and one of the best known figures in the public relations sector in Great Britain. During his speech, he mentioned meeting and working with Margaret Thatcher during his successful publicity campaigns for the Conservative Party in the British General Elections of 1979, 1983 and 1987, which he noted was a turning point for him. He then went on to explain how the industry has evolved over the years, sharing insights and anecdotes with our guests.
Our guest of Honour, Lord Bell and H.E. the Ambassador of Spain Mr. Federico Trillo-Figueroa.
After Lord Bell, it was the turn of H.E. the Ambassador of Spain Mr. Federico Trillo-Figueroa to address attendees. The Ambassador expressed his gratitude to both Lord Brennan (for his hospitality and kind words about Spain) and Lord Bell (for his insightful observations).
Attendees enjoying the drinks reception at the House of Lords terrace.
We would like to thank all attendees for their participation in the Annual General Meeting and for sharing with us such a unique day. The full gallery of pictures can be seen by clicking here.
If you missed this event and want to be up-to-date on future activities, please visit our Upcoming Events section or sign up to our newsletter.