Your report “RIBA in turmoil as faction presses for ‘radical change’” (27 March, page 13) is a surprising appearance of fantasy journalism in an otherwise excellent magazine

I have just returned from Cardiff after an exemplary, constructive and convivial council meeting in which RIBA plans for dealing with the recession were discussed in a spirit of complete confidence in the operations of the institute.

I have no idea how your reporter concluded that there was a “faction” of council members forcing any decision-making regarding radical restructuring. The idea that I would be part of such a “faction” is patently absurd since I and fellow board members are at the heart of the review and contingency planning under way across the whole range of the RIBA’s professional, cultural and business services.

The aim is to identify the highest priorities for delivery during the recession, and then for development in what may be a very different business environment. Both the executive and the trustees agree that the recession is a catalyst for change – and we are working hard to ensure the RIBA is in the best position to face the challenges that are daily becoming more manifest.

Sunand Prasad, president, RIBA

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