We present new results on the Galactic bar/bulge transverse velocity structure using Gaia and the VISTA Variables in Via Lactea (VVV) survey. Gaia is complemented in high extinction regions by the multi-epoch infrared VVV observations for which derived relative proper motions can be tied to Gaia’s absolute frame. We extract kinematic maps (both 2D and 3D) of the Galactic bar/bulge, from which we measure the pattern speed of the bar using a novel technique. We focus on the evidence of an X-shaped bulge from the kinematic maps.

The metallicity distribution and abundance ratios of the Galactic bulge are reviewed. Issues raised by different groups in recent work, in particular the high metallicity end, a comparison between the oxygen abundances derived from different indicators, the [OI] 630nm and IR OH lines, and the issue of measuring giants vs. dwarfs, are discussed. Finally, abundances in bulge globular clusters are briefly described.

Spectra in the range 4000-7000 Å were obtained for a sample of bulge stars using the GMOS-Gemini low resolution spectrograph. The sample stars were selected from a VLT-FLAMES project for the observation of 1000 bulge stars, for which abundance ratios have been derived. Our aim is to study old stellar populations in external galaxies.

The Bulge has been mapped in the infrared both coarsely from balloon platforms and in detail from the IRAS satellite and the ground. The information revealed by each type of survey is discussed. Particular attention is given to surveys of the Sgr I clear field, its content of long-period variables and their implications for distance determination and the high end of the Bulge luminosity function.

The Baade's Window bulge is a metal-rich, rotationally supported entity, whereas the solar neighbourhood halo is metal-poor and non-rotating; what is the connection between these two spheroid components?

We present results of a spectroscopic survey of 847 K-giants from 3 low absorption windows at (5,-12), (-5,-12) and (-25,-12). This is a seven times larger sample than has been previously studied in this region.