An initial analysis of responses to the recent ECF consultation on proposed changes to its grading system has been published on the ECF website, giving percentages for and against the two ideas of monthly grading lists and four-figure numbers, analysed by age‑group category and membership category.

Oddly, overall percentages for and against are not given, and cannot be deduced from the figures given. Nevertheless, it is fairly clear that about 67% were in favour of monthly grading lists, and about 80% were in favour of 4-digit numbers, the latter being assumed to be probably linked to ELO-style calculation.

Over 900 responses were received, which was about 8% of the total membership, which is actually quite a high “turnout” compared will results achieved by Membership Category Representatives on ECF Council when they seek opinions from members prior to ECF meetings.

As with the Brexit vote, feasibility, method and impact have been largely left for later consideration, it seems, but it is likely this will raise its head at the ECF October meeting, when the Board may seek approval for next steps, unless, of course, the consultation results are to be taken as a mandate for action, without recourse to Council.

The summary of consultation results can be found here: https://www.englishchess.org.uk/grading-consultation-results/.

Steve Mann