Representatives from 32 countries of the Commonwealth, having met at Reading, UK 18-22 June 2001, at the Conference of Commonwealth Meteorologists.

Noting that similar conferences have been held periodically since 1929, noting that the theme of this Conference was "Working together to improve weather, water, climate and related environmental services in all Commonwealth countries." acknowledging with gratitude the role played by the Met Office, UK, in convening these conferences, recognising the commitment shown by the Commonwealth countries by participating in such conferences, appreciating the role of the Commonwealth Secretariat and the guidance on possibilities of follow-up opportunities,

Recommends

(a) that the Conference of Commonwealth Meteorologists be established on a regular basis,

(b) that a Steering Group be formed to initiate and monitor follow-up actions during the inter-sessional periods,

(c) that we work to strengthen relationships and establish partnerships among the National Meteorological and Hydrological Services (NMHS) within the Commonwealth, to enhance the capability of all members,

(d) that the NMHSs in the Commonwealth should respond appropriately to trends in globalisation and the increasing capabilities of the private sector,

(e) that, by mobilizing resources within the Commonwealth and with other funding agencies, we strengthen capacity building activities in the Commonwealth countries, through methods such as the exchange of personnel, transfer of technology, and organisation of regular and specialised training programmes,

(f) that we establish and maintain a Commonwealth meteorological website, to highlight our activities and to exchange relevant information,

(g) that avenues be explored for establishing a formal status for the Conference of Commonwealth Meteorologists within the Commonwealth structure,

(h) that papers be prepared on major issues related to weather, water, climate and environment and cooperation within the Commonwealth countries on these issues, for consideration by the biennial Commonwealth Heads Of Government Meetings (CHOGM) and the annual meetings of the Commonwealth Finance Ministers,

(i) that the Steering Group may draft such a paper in consultation with all other members and the Commonwealth Secretariat by an appropriate deadline for the ensuing CHOGM,

(j) that we work towards strengthening co-operation with WMO and other relevant bodies,

(k) that we seek the help of the Commonwealth Secretariat and the Commonwealth Science Council in the above endeavours.