[BULK] Re: [address-policy-wg] 2007-08 New Draft Document Published (Enabling Methods for Reallocation of IPv4 Resources)

michael.dillon at bt.com wrote:
> Of course. But how does the RIPE community as a whole get expert
> legal advice prior to the board's review of policy? In other words
> a proactive type of advice rather than a reactive cover-your-behind
> type of legal review.
>   
That is actually quite an interesting and far reaching question and 
applies to any resources requested by the RIPE community.

The RIPE community has, of course, no monetary resources of its own to 
call on. Where such resources are required, the RIPE NCC has 
traditionally provided them. I think what you are asking is that either 
the RIPE NCC pays for legal advice to be given to the RIPE community or 
that some lawyer be found to give pro bono advice. Ultimately the Board 
decides on whether RIPE NCC resources should be allocated to the 
community, of course, although mostly it just passes them through on the 
nod and this could be no exception.

However, I do share Shane's pessimism about the likely outcome of 
involving lawyers.
> Perhaps if we ask for such advice on the list, then the meeting 
> organizers might take the time to find a legal expert who can
> make a presentation at a future RIPE meeting. That way everybody
> can benefit from the information.
>   
We can but hope.

Nigel