As independent bodies The R&A and the United States Golf Association have worked closely together since 1952 to produce a uniform code of rules so that wherever the game is played the same laws apply.

Every four years the two governing bodies agree any necessary amendments or clarifications and the main thrust of their work is in reviewing, revising and clarifying the rules so that they can be more easily understood and applied.

Because of the complex nature of the game, one small change in the rules is rather like altering the shape of one piece of a jig-saw puzzle, affecting all the pieces that touch it.

Proposed changes are discussed in detail with golf authorities in all parts of the world and when The R&A and USGA make their final decisions there has to be complete agreement on both sides. The abiding principle is always "are they for the good of the game?"

Suggestions for simplifying the rules or making them more fair are always welcomed by The R&A.

In November 2009, The R&A and the USGA issued a joint statement of principles regarding the use of electronic devices, including distance-measuring devices. The R&A and the USGA reaffirmed that these devices, allowed solely when a relevant Local Rule is in operation, may be used to measure distance only and must not be able to measure other conditions such as wind speed or direction, slope of the ground or temperature.

Read the full text of the Joint Statement.