Purge London Byte Shop, chairing BMMG council and flying shuttle to Manchester
One very busy day, and in hot and sultry weather. First a variety of office work and gathering together of files for a two day session of meetings, then by train to London at lunchtime and the hire of an interview room at the Great Northern Hotel close to Kings Cross Station. I first ask Bob Robinson to join me and hear his side of the story and then explain that in the company’s view he cannot continue as The London Managing Director due to acts of gross discourtesy and indiscretion.
A great difficulty over two hours of seeking his agreement to resign and accept settlement which he eventually does. I wonder how a person can be so naive and wrong in judgement as to expect that he can publicise his leaving, not discuss the matter with his Boss and then expect to work his notice as if nothing had been said. A final settlement of three months’ salary (£3440) in lieu of his 12 months’ notice of contract and a further £2000 for his bonus scheme. His 2000 shares are transferred back to the company for a nominal £2. Then I summon Russel Jacques, the assistant manager and agree terms for his taking over the Branch. He will be young, enthusiastic and, though lacking in experience is both keen and willing to learn and follow company counselling. The task complete I take the tube to Holborn and then to Theobalds Road and the offices of Transam Microsystems. Here I chair a full meeting of council of the BMMG and discuss replies to make to the NCC, CCTA and D of I and the arrangements for the forthcoming meeting with the Minister on July 20th. Leaving the meeting early and in the care of the Vice Chairman for the remaining and non-urgent business, I take a taxi to Heathrow Airport and the British Airways Shuttle to Manchester. From the airport, the No44 bus slowly winds through suburban Manchester and I study with interest the poorer people who rely on this method of transport. I should have taken the express bus but I am in no hurry. Then to the Portland Hotel and a comfortable room for the night. This night there were violent storms in St Neots with thunder and lightning.