The first Laws of Duplicate Bridge were published in 1928. There had been successive revisions in 1933, 1935, 1943, 1949, 1963, 1975, 1987, and 1997. In accordance with its By-Laws the World Bridge Federation promulgated the current edition in 2007.

Previously through the 1930s the Laws were promulgated by the Portland Club of London and the Whist Club of New York. From the 40s onwards the American Contract Bridge League Laws Commission replaced the Whist Club, while the British Bridge League and the European Bridge League supplemented the Portland Club's efforts. The 1975 Laws were also promulgated by the World Bridge Federation, as they were in 1987 and 1997.

This latest revision supersedes the 1997 Code. Zonal authorities may implement the Code at any time after 1st January 2008 but before 30th September 2008.

Over the years there has been a marked increase in the expertise and experience of Directors, which has been recognized in the new Code by the increased responsibilities given to them. In addition, the Appeals process has been improved considerably by the introduction of the “Code of Practice for Appeals Committees”, to which attention is drawn.

The Drafting Committee notes with sorrow the passing of Ralph Cohen during the drafting of the new Code and the earlier passing of Edgar Kaplan. The assistance of Antonio Riccardi is acknowledged together with that of David Davenport of the Portland Club.

The Drafting Committee also acknowledges with gratitude the substantial contributions of Anna Gudge, Richard Hills and Rick Assad. The Code, however, would not have been produced without the dedication and hard work of its Coordinator, Grattan Endicott.

The Drafting Committee consisted of:

• Max Bavin
• Ralph Cohen
• Joan Gerard
• Ton Kooijman
• Jeffrey Polisner
• William Schoder
• Grattan Endicott (Co-ordinator)
• John Wignall (Chairman)

John R. Wignall, MNZM

TABLE OF CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION