The meeting at the RICS's London headquarters was attended by chartered surveyors from as far afield as Australia, Kenya, the USA, Greece, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong and the Republic of Ireland. The council was set up as a response to accelerating economic globalisation, which has affected construction and property agency, investment and valuation. About 20% of the RICS's 110,000 members now practise outside the UK.

This international approach is also reflected in the new RICS presidential team. Incoming president Peter Faulkner will be supported by senior vice-president Peter Fall and four vice-presidents designate; two from the UK, one from France and one from the USA.

' We have made the leap from a UK to an international body with a globally recognised qualification,' said President Peter Faulkner. 'The world economy is changing rapidly, with national boundaries less of a barrier than they have ever been. We have dismantled the borders in our profession so that RICS members are equipped with the best qualifications, and most open mindset, to provide business and governments with top class advice.'