The fight for the future of Britain’s Royal Institution has heated up again, with a group of rebel members attempting to reinstate its controversial former director Susan Greenfield.

Greenfield was made redundant earlier this year and has since begun legal action against the RI, alleging sexual discrimination. Now her supporters have triggered a special general meeting at which RI members will vote on a proposal to replace the entire board of trustees (who made Greenfield’s redundant in the first place).

However, the Times says that the letter sent out yesterday to members regarding the meeting contains a “unanimous recommendation to members to vote against the resolution”.

The RI is in a financially precarious position at the moment and there are fears that potential funders will shy away should the coup succeed. “The wholesale replacement of the council and officers at this time would create further unnecessary instability,” says Chris Rofe, chief executive officer of the institution (Times).

A spokeswoman for the RI confirmed that all members would be invited to attend the 12 April meeting where the rebel plans would be voted on.

Past coverage

The Royal Institution’s troubles continue – 12 February

Greenfield ousted from Royal Institution – 11 January

Royal Institution faces cash crisis – 16 December

Royal Institution spat hits the media – 08 December

Image: photograph of the RI by Matt From London via Flickr under Creative Commons.