The RICS confirmed this week it was in talks to merge with the Institution of Civil Engineering Surveyors.
The RICS informed its governing council in writing of the talks on Monday with the ICES, which has 3000 members.

A RICS spokesperson said the overall strategy was to increase its influence in the industry.

He said: "The RICS sees itself as one of the main forums for the property and construction in the industry. It is now increasingly the centre of gravity for the sector."

  • A proposed extraordinary general meeting at the RICS over its proposed fee increase will not take place until spring 2004, said QS campaigner Jeremy Hackett.

    Hackett, who is leading a campaign to reverse the decision over subscriptions, said in a statement that he had collected 400 of 880 signatures required for a meeting. Hackett said: "Accountability to the membership, both financial and governance, remains our objective. Nothing less will do."