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students in their union: clubs and societies handbook 2002/314. ultra viresUltra vires is Latin for “beyond the powers”. It can apply to any body which has rules, such as:• companies• local authorities• trade unions• students’ unionsAn ultra vires act is one that is outside the specified and/or implied constitutional objects and powers of the body inquestion. It is “beyond the powers” and therefore illegal.how does ultra vires affect clubs and societies?The Attorney General has published guidance confirming that students’ union can fund clubs and societies as part ofthe fulfilment of their charitable objects:“It is clear, for example, that if a college is to function properly, there is the need for the normal range of clubs andsocieties so as to enable each student to further the development of his (sic) abilities, mental and physical. Equally itis likely that the college will gain from the fact that the students hold meetings to debate matters of common concern,and publish some form of campus newspaper. Reasonable expenditure on such purposes is, in the view of theAttorney General, plainly permissible for a students’ union.”Clubs and societies in receipt of students’ union funds must have a genuine membership. The union should fix minimumlevels of membership and may lay down provisions relating to the club or society’s constitution and officers.Nothing the club does should be unlawful or unacceptable to the union, college or society at large. There should be astandard procedure for setting up clubs and the funds allocated to each should be reasonable having regard to thesize of its membership and programme of activities.clubs and societiesA club or society may affiliate to a related larger organisation having the same or similar purpose – to get information,support, facilities etc. For example, a Conservative Club could affiliate to the Conservative Party, or an AmnestyInternational Society could affiliate to Amnesty International (British Section).• a club or society may hold meetings and invite speakers on relevant topics• a club or society may produce pamphlets and other campaigning material, provided they are accurate and well rea-87