Brethren,

As you know, a new Grand Rank Policy was introduced in 2019 following a review by a number of experienced Brethren.

I have asked some of those Brethren to conduct a review of the implementation of that Policy and report on fulfilment of policy objectives and recommend any changes. This work has commenced and will continue.

I also sought advice on whether we should proceed, as normal, with Grand Rank and non-Grand Rank recognition processes for announcement in March 2021, particularly with the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic.

The unanimous recommendation, with which I agree, is to suspend any awarding of Grand Rank conferral/promotions and non-Grand Rank recognition in March 2021.

This will permit the completion of the review and consultation across our fraternity for Conferrals/Promotions and non-Grand Rank recognition for announcement in March 2022.

Fraternally,