So there we were, finally getting a private holiday in after a busy year, when you realise you have a lot of reading time ahead learning about the central position of Tyrol and Maximilian I in European history. Lots to look forward to in 2025. With all best wishes for the New Year to family, friends, colleagues, and anyone else reading this!
Month: December 2024
Alderman Professor Michael Mainelli Re-elected For Third Term
It was a cordially-contested election with a result of 70% in my favour. My acceptance remarks this evening went:
Continue readingWardmote 2024 – Electoral Statement
Alderman, Ladies & Gentlemen,

After one of his lengthy, repetitive speeches Soviet leader Leonid Brezhnev confronted his speechwriter. “I asked for a 15 minute speech, but that lasted an hour!” The speechwriter replied: “Comrade, it was 15 minutes, but I gave you four copies…”. You’ll be glad to hear I have a single copy.
Club di Londra
What an honour – today I took over as President of the Club di Londra from Sir Rocco Forte, at Brown’s Hotel, a Rocco Forte Hotel, 33 Albemarle St, London W1S 4BP.
Club di Londra is a non-profit organization that acts as a cultural, entrepreneurial, and social hub to strengthen ties between Italy and the United Kingdom. It serves as a place for debate, business, and networking, hosting events like dinners and conferences with prominent figures in economics, politics, and culture. It was founded in 1986 by members of the Italian Chamber of Commerce & Industry for the UK and the wider Italian community. The Club is grateful for enormous support from Ambasciata d’Italia a Londra.
Continue readingKnights Of Malta Medal
What an honour, and a delight, to be awarded a Silver Medal, Pro Merito Melitensi, from the most distinguished Sovereign Military Hospitaller Order of Saint John of Jerusalem, of Rhodes and of Malta for aiding their humanitarian goals.

“Pro Merito Melitensi” is an order of merit awarded by the Sovereign Military Order of Malta for distinguished service that has brought honour and prestige to the organization. It is distinct from the Knightly Order and is bestowed upon non-members, regardless of religion, who have contributed to the Order’s humanitarian goals or Christian values. Recipients do not become members of the Order of Malta or take religious vows upon receiving it.
Sham Or Glam Syndrome?
Remarks to: Graduation Ceremonies, Birkbeck College, University of London, on receiving a Fellowship, Winter 2024
Continue reading