Opening Plenary Passed with little controversy, though in what I sensed was a somewhat tense and expectant atmosphere. The meeting was well attended, both by (what might be called) the old guard, and by many new members who no doubt represent a wide spectrum of thinking on SC 34?s subject areas. There was no substantive discussion either of Ecma?s proposed maintenance agreement for OOXML (should it become a standard), or of the UK?s proposal to create a new working group for Office document formats . These will most likely be formally addressed in the next SC 34 meeting which will take place in Oslo in April 2008. Changing of the Guard The most notable business of the plenary was the appointment of a number of new SC 34 officers. Our long time chairman, Jim Mason (who unfortunately is not able to attend this meeting) is stepping down from his position. Jim has been chairman for all my time in SC 34 and has proved sage and effective at every turn. The respectful affection in which he is held is best illustrated by the appreciation which SC34 produced to mark the occasion of his 20th year as convenor. Ken Holman and Jim Mason Our outgoing Secretariat Manager, Ken Holman , has also been in his role since I first attended SC 34 meetings. Ken has always been a cheerful and able presence, and his XSLT (and more) scripts have produced a fantastic near-real-time view of SC 34?s business ? achieving the