Ken Cook wrote:
I got a similar impression during my recent MetO inspection. As you
say, I hope we're wrong and that the amateur will still have a valuable
input. Organisations such as the Climatological Observers' Link (COL)
would have an increasing role for the enthusiast if the Met O went on
this track, wouldn't they?
It would be a shame, but not a surprise, if the MetO alienated amateurs
who have spent many years of their lives making diligent, accurate
manual obs.and supplying them voluntarily.

Yes, couldn't agree more with both your points - it would indeed be a
sad end to almost 150 years of voluntary observing if it were to come
about, but I suspect the decisions have been made and 'active station
attrition' is already in hand to bring this about.

By the time it's unmistakeable the effects on climatological networks
and the continuity of records will probably be irreparable.

A profoundly depressing thought!

Stephen Burt
Stratfield Mortimer, Berkshire