Claire, you said, "We have monthly meetings, which I'd like abolished cos I don't want to spend any more time w/ people like that than I have to."

Well, you're a free citizen of a free nation. Don't go.

Better yet, say you'll stay for 15 minutes, and anything important better be raised in that time.

By the way, I'm surprised you have a male flatmate. I don't think it's a good idea.