Whether ancient or modern, the underlying principle of all livery companies is timeless. They continue, in innovative ways, to do what they have done for all of their history - supporting their craft and members and building fellowship.

On some issues all livery companies work together. These are called the Pan-Livery Initiatives and include the Livery Skills Council, Livery Schools Link, Livery Climate Action Group, Livery Communications Group and the Livery Charity Chairs Group. We also participate in a number of fact-sharing projects, aimed at spreading the good news about livery companies e.g. the Pan-Livery Philanthropy Survey, which brings together information about financial and pro bono giving by members of the Livery.

Most livery companies have links with the armed forces. For us, this means a special relationship with LXX Squadron of the RAF, based at Brize Norton and HMS Portland based at HMNB Devonport, as well enjoying connections with 329 (Finsbury) Squadron Air Training Corps.

The other essential bond of the livery companies is with the City of London Corporation and the governance of the City of London. For the past several centuries, twice a year (Midsummer Day in June and Michaelmas Day in September), all who have held the Livery in the 111 Companies for more than 12 months, are summoned to Guildhall for meetings called Common Hall. Amongst other business transacted at these meetings, the Livery elect the two Sheriffs of the City of London and choose two candidates, one of which the Aldermen must elect as Lord Mayor. The Livery also plays a prominent part in the City’s major events.