LENT TERM 2020
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WELCOME Lent term offers opportunities for new beginnings in Cambridge; for freshers it is a chance to make new friends after discovering the people they clung to in freshers week are actually quite boring. For second years it offers the opportunity to work harder, and leave behind the indolence of Michaelmas. For finalists there is one last chance to enjoy life before dreaded exams. Lent, far from being abstinent, offers opportunities to indulge. And the Union this term is no different...
The Union’s commitment to free speech goes beyond simply hosting controversial speakers, though it is of course important to do that, the Union’s commitment must be to free speech abroad as well as at home. I am deeply proud that we will be honouring those who are taking part in a global movements for free speech, democracy and human rights. Beyond this we continue in our commitment to bringing you the speakers who shape our world, from finance, journalism, music and drama. Our panels, too, show this commitment, with exciting opportunities, such as to meet the women shaping our university life as heads of colleges.
Here at the Union we will encourage you to ignore the piling deadlines, and to waste time in good and new company. Debates are at the heart of what we do, and this term is no exception. We will be debating something old (the Monarchy), something new (New Labour), something borrowed (Hong Kong) and something that makes us all feel decidedly blue (climate change).
We are also collaborating with those from beyond this society, including the Wilberforce Society, who are hosting their annual conference here, and the Cambridge Review of Books, as well as PakSoc and the Majlis.
On top of these debates we will also challenge two venerable institutions of Cambridge: the Footlights and the Union, offering opportunities for everybody to be embarrassed. Most excitingly we will be having a literary debate for the first time in my knowledge. That said, nobody at the Union has any institutional memory so this isn’t saying very much. Nonetheless, for us it is exciting and new to see the Union stepping up to the cultural plate and debating more than just politics. Indeed an additional classical debate has been added last minute to our repertoire this term, asking again a question first debated over 2000 years ago; which is the greatest: Athens or Sparta?
We also have social events galore; our redevelopment sadly means a ball is not possible, but we are nonetheless going to have fortnightly ice cream, and Sunday mornings at the Union; an opportunity to read the papers, eat some pastries and have a cuppa. There will be time for meditation, and cocktails, and a salon - truly everything is on offer. The Union is a club; it is your club. And you should feel at home here, whatever level of involvement you want. Please enjoy the myriad things on offer this term, if you don’t, then don’t worry. There’s a suggestion box in the lobby.
In terms of our other speakers there is a focus this term on international human rights. Ban-ki Moon and Tawakkol Karman will be coming to speak, and we will be giving honorary membership to Martin Lee.
Lots of love,
Gabriel Barton-Singer President, Lent 2020 3
contents Membership 5 Getting Involved 7 Debates 8 Speakers 30 Panels 46 Social Events 54 Standing Committee 62 Appointees 63 Staff and Governance 64 President’s Thanks 65
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Term card kindly sponsored by
membership Thanks to the hard work of the Treasurer and their committee, this term your membership gives you:
25 % off La Raza Cocktail Bar 15% off Bellini Chocolate House and Subsidiaries 10% off Michaelhouse Café 25% off Ta Bouche Cocktail Bar 10% off Up and Running Sportswear Store 10% off Alwalton Hall Beauty Salon 20% off Engravers Guild of London 10% off Primo Cycles 20% off Smokeworks Restaurant 10% off Gardenia Restaurant, cash only 20% off Lockhouse Escape Rooms (contact treasurer@cus.org for voucher code) 3 for 2 on Fudge at Fudge Kitchen 10% off set Menu at Cote (Monday to Friday 12pm 7pm) 25% off food at Novi (Monday to Friday) 15% off The Locker Café 17% off drinks at Granny Ma’s bubble tea stall, The Market Valid upon production of your Union card unless a voucher code is required
Your membership gives you value for money, if you know how to use it. 5 55
Come to Cambridge’s biggest and longest running Super bowl party run in conjunction with the Cambridge Uni Pythons Super Bowl LIV, the 54th Super Bowl and the 50th modern-era will decide the champion for the NFL’s 2019 and 100th season
1815 will open throughout the night and be offering up drinks deals and food!
GETTING INVOLVED Stewarding
Being Appointed
One of the best ways to get involved with the Union is
At the end of each term, the incoming team of officers
stewarding our events. Stewards wear a fetching neon
interviews people for a variety of positions on Full
jacket, get the best seats in the house, a £5 bar tab and
Committee, all of which are advertised via email, and
a free grilled sandwich per event stewarded. So what
in the Union’s Facebook Group. There are roles for
are you waiting for? Join ‘Cambridge Union Society
anyone and everyone, regardless of experience, so
Stewards’ on Facebook or reach out to christian.
do keep an eye out for the end of Michaelmas which
owen@cus.org for more details.
is when the Lent team will start recruiting. Union experience is not required to apply for these roles.
Running for Election Participating in Debates Each term elections are held for the position of President,
Executive
Officer,
Speakers
Officer,
Our weekly debates also offer our members a chance
Treasure and Social Ents Officer. To run for election,
to speak alongside and debate with these figures
one must satisfy a few criteria that can be found in
themselves. Every Saturday we host open auditions
the Union’s constitution on our website. Most of
for one or two of the six spaces in the following week’s
these involve supporting the Union’s competitive
debate - sign up and come along! The specific slots and
debating programme in a variety of ways. Running for
debates open for audition are subject to change - check
President requires that one has previously been head
emails and Facebook to stay up to date. New debaters
of a department at the union.
are encouraged to apply. Additionally, two floor speeches per week are awarded a prize with a value of approximately £150, so we encourage everyone to join the discussion. You can join the Union at cus.org/join. Life membership costs £190, and annual membership costs £105. For enquiries about bursary membership, please reach out to louise.gamon@cus.org. Our events will always be open to our members, whether they are still students of the University or not. Similarly the building is yours to work in, enjoy and use. You can become a member today.
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DE B AT E S How Debates Run
Can’t Make The Debate?
The debates take place every Thursday of term from eight to half-nine, with an emergency debate half an hour before that; the emergency debate is to cover a topic too ‘urgent’ for us to have had time to prepare a full motion.
To get involved through social media, you can use the hashtags #CUS or #CUSdebate. You can also watch on a livestream by logging in online.
To join in any debate you can give a floor speech or a point of information during the debate.
History of Debates at the Union Debates are at the heart of what we do. This term we will be celebrating our 205th Anniversary. This gives us an opportunity to reflect; the Union was formed as a union of debating societies, as a way of patching up disputes between undergraduates after a pub brawl in 1815.
Floor speeches are short speeches given after each pair of speakers has finished (one from the proposition, one from the opposition). To make a floor speech, when the President asks, raise your hand; this is an opportunity to make a speech proposing, opposing or abstaining on the motion. If chosen, come to the closest standing microphone and hand your membership card to the Vice President, so they can get your details. Don’t feel shy - speeches vary hugely in quality, yours will not be the worst.
We still try to keep that spirit alive, though without the violence, and put debates at the heart of our agenda. If you’re curious about our history, we will be airing one of our most famous debates this term, followed by a talk by some of those who participated in it, and experts on it. If you want to make history of your own, we urge you to get involved and to take the floor.
Points of Information are short comments or questions directed at a speaker during their speech and accepted at their discretion. To offer one, simply stand up and say ‘on that point’ or ‘point of information’, or ‘if I may...’. If it is accepted by the speaker, state clearly your name and college and then make your comment. Keep it short, please, you weren’t an invited speaker. 8 8
Intervention 10 Literature 12 Monarchy 14 Hong Kong 16 Comedy 18 New Labour 20 Brexit 22 Climate 24 Classics 26 Presidential 28
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THIS HOUSE believes WESTERN MILITARY INTERVENTION HAS DONE MORE HARM than good Thursday 16th january
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Since the 1990s, Western countries have been involved in a plethora of military interventions: Kosovo, Sierra Leone, Iraq, Afghanistan, Syria - and most recently Iran. Some argue that these interventions have merely exacerbated sectarian problems. Others have argued that without the West’s interventions human rights would have been fundamentally eroded in these countries. The failure to intervene can throw up its own problems, such as in Rwanda or Yemen. This question represents one of the new fault-lines in the emerging political battle that is no longer about right or left.
PROPOSITION
OPPOSITION
The Rt. Hon Sir Malcolm Rifkind KCMG QC
Dr. Alan Mendoza Alan Mendoza is a founder and Executive Director at the Henry Jackson Society, a cross-party foreign policy think tank, which was founded by students at Cambridge. He read History at Gonville & Caius College.
Sir Malcolm Rifkind was the Conservative MP for Edinburgh Pentlands from 1974-1997 and then for Kensington from 2005-15. He has served within various Cabinet roles under both Thatcher and Major, including Defence Secretary (1992-1995) and Foreign Secretary (19951997).
Tom Harwood Tom Harwood is a journalist and political commentator based in Westminster. While he predominantly works as a reporter for the Guido Fawkes website, his writing can also be found in the Spectator, Conservative Home, and the Telegraph. He is a frequent guest on the BBC, Sky, and ITV, including flagship programmes from Good Morning Britain to Newsnight, and BBC Question Time.
Dawn Foster Dawn Foster is a journalist, broadcaster and author, writing for The Guardian on politics, social affairs and economics. She regularly contributes to The Independent, the New York Times and Tribune, and is a regular commentator on the BBC and Sky News.
Student Speaker
Student Speaker
This could be you! Details for auditions can be found on page six.
This could be you! Details for auditions can be found on page six.
Floor Speech Prizes: Winner - Cocktail Workshop for two at La Raza Runner Up - Punting Tour for four with Scudamore’s Punts 11
THIS HOUSE prefers reading oscar wilde to george orwell Thursday 23rd january
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Do we prefer satire or comedy? Do we take refuge in the serious or the frivolous? Do we understand the importance of being earnest or would we rather be in Room 101? These two authors demonstrate well two powerful traditions in British literature: the comic and the satirical. Some would argue that during our present global crises we should look to Orwell more than ever, others would reach for the escapism of Oscar Wilde. In a new enterprise for the Cambridge Union we are beginning our cultural debates – and this is our first.
PROPOSITION Will Self
To be announced watch this space!
Will Self is the author of 25 books, some of which have been translated into 25 languages. His Dorian: An Imitation is an adaptation of Oscar Wilde’s The Picture of Dorian Gray set during the AIDS crisis. He holds the Chair in Contemporary Thought at Brunel University, and lives in South London.
OPPOSITION Student Speaker
Student Speaker
This could be you! Details for auditions can be found on page six.
This could be you! Details for auditions can be found on page six.
abstention Professor Angie Hobbs
Student Speaker
Angie Hobbs graduated in Classics and then a PhD in Ancient Philosophy from Cambridge. After a Research Fellowship at Christ’s, she moved to the Philosophy Department at the University of Warwick. She was a judge of the Man Booker International Prize 2019 and is a Professor of the Public Understanding of Philosophy.
This could be you! Details for auditions can be found on page six.
Floor Speech Prizes: Winner - Personal Styling session with Ros Giles Personal Styling Runner Up - Meal for two at Crepe Affair 13
THIS HOUSE believes the house of windsor is failing Thursday 30th january
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In recent months the Royal Family has suffered a series of setbacks. Prince Philip banned from driving, Prince Andrew banned from television - and now the Duke and Duchess of Sussex seem to want to set their own path. Yet the Queen’s popularity remains high - is this all the press fussing over nothing, or is the House of Windsor failing in some deeper way? This will be an all student debate, on this most topical of questions; the Union is committed to remembering its roots, as a debating society, and you, as members, should have the maximum chance to debate. Details for auditions can be found on page six. All speakers will get to enjoy a three-course black-tie meal before the debate. This exciting and topical debate is entirely of your making!
Floor Speech Prizes: Winner - Group Session with Lockhouse Escape Games Runner Up - Group Walking Tour with Cambridge Tour Guides 15
THIS HOUSE believes CHINA IS THE NEW IMPERIAL POWER IN HONG KONG Thursday 6th february
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The situation in Hong Kong has become ever more serious over the past year. The Michaelmas before last, the Union hosted Martin Lee, Evan Fowler, Benny Tai and Nathan Law - the latter two of those are no longer able to visit the UK. Yet there are no simple answers for Hong Kong, how can it cohabit with and inside of a country which has strikingly different values and aims? Is Hong Kong suffering unjustly or is it as free and prosperous as any city can be in the 21st Century, a Century that will surely belong to China? We are delighted to announce that Martin Lee will be receiving honorary membership.
PROPOSITION
OPPOSITION
Martin Lee SC JP
Victor Gao
Martin Lee is a Hong Kong politician and barrister. He is the founding chairman of the United Democrats of Hong Kong and its successor, the Democratic Party, Hong Kong’s major pro-democracy party. Nicknamed the “Father of Democracy”, he is recognised as one of the most prominent advocates for democracy and human rights in Hong Kong and China.
Victor Zhikai Gao is an international relations expert and translator. He is a Director of the China National Association of International Studies and an Executive Director of Beijing Private Equity Association. He is best known for his position as the late Deng Xiaoping’s translator and currently an international expert on Chinese issues. Student Speaker
Evan Fowler
This could be you! Details for auditions can be found on page six.
Evan Fowler has written about social identity and generational issues for the South China Morning Post, China Daily and others. He has also been a regular contributor to House News. Evan is a columnist and co-director of Hong Kong Free Press. Evan is owed particular thanks for helping to forge a long term relationship between Hong Kong pro-democracy activists and the Union.
Student Speaker
To be announced!
This could be you! Details for auditions can be found on page six.
Floor Speech Prizes: Winner - Gift Voucher for The Pint Shop Bar and Restaurant Runner Up - Free Beauty Session at Alwalton Hall 17
THIS HOUSE believes the cambridge footlights have ruined comedy Thursday 13th february
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From Stephen Fry and Hugh Laurie to Olivia Colman and Emma Thompson the Footlights have played a worryingly large part in Britain’s cultural life – has this been for better or for worse? Have we become dominated by a narrow sect of comedians from middle-class backgrounds writing sketches about the cosy middle-class, or has this remarkable institution produced some of the most challenging and innovative comedic changes in the last fifty years. The Cambridge Footlights were at the forefront of the wave of alternative comedy, but have they left us all stuck with what was revolutionary comedy back then? In short, have the Cambridge Footlights ruined British Comedy? This debate is brought to you in collaboration with the Cambridge Footlights. For this debate in the audition for student speakers preference will be given to auditionees from the Cambridge Footlights. However these auditions are open to all members. This day will mark the exact 205th Anniversary of the founding of the Cambridge Union Society, following the debate there will be an anniversary themed cocktail available in the bar, and a small celebration.
Kindly sponsored by
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THIS HOUSE regrets New labour Thursday 20th february
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As Labour recovers from its worst defeat in decades, we ask: does Labour have to become like New Labour to win? And is that worth the price? This debate will ask us to take an historical look back on the period of 1997-2010, Iraq, the financial crash, 7/7 – was the New Labour response to these events the correct one? As time passes, new perspectives on the BlairBrown era are beginning to emerge. Is now the time to look back to the past for answers, or is it time for something else entirely?
PROPOSITION
OPPOSITION
To be announced
Tom Newton Dunn Tom Newton Dunn is an English newspaper journalist. Having previously worked for ten years as a defence journalist and foreign reporter, since 2009 he has been the political editor of The Sun newspaper.
The Rt. Hon Sir Vince Cable
To be announced
Sir John Vincent Cable is a British politician who was Leader of the Liberal Democrats from 2017 to 2019. He was the Member of Parliament for Twickenham from 1997 to 2015 and from 2017 to 2019. He was President of the Cambridge Union in Easter 1965 and elected President of the University Liberal Club.
Student Speaker
Student Speaker
This could be you! Details for auditions can be found on page six.
This could be you! Details for auditions can be found on page six.
Floor Speech Prizes: Winner - Boardgame Bundle from Lockhouse Escape Games Runner Up - Professional Headshot Session with Regina Ray Photography 21
THIS HOUSE believes we were right to leave the eu Thursday 27th february
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With the deadlock finally broken, it looks like we’ll have left the EU before this debate. But the issue is far from settled: there will no doubt be a series of negotiations as we enter the transition period - and with it, a continued debate. Should we have a vote on a deal? Should we have had another vote on whether we stay or leave? Or is it best to honour the result of the referendum and trust the government to deliver Brexit?
PROPOSITION
OPPOSITION
The Rt. Hon Gisela Stuart Gisela Stuart was the Labour MP for Birmingham Edgbaston from 1997-2015 and chaired the official Vote Leave campaign in 2016. She is the Chair of Woolton Park, a foreign policy think-tank.
The Rt. Hon Lord Campbell of Pittenweem CH CBE PC QC Kt. Lord Campbell was leader of the Liberal Democrats between 2005 and 2007. A former Olympic sprinter, one time styled as ‘the fastest white man on the planet’, he moved into the law, becoming a Queen’s Counsel. Widely regarded as a statesman, and admired on all sides, he is a long-standing supporter of the European Union.
Suella Braverman MP Suella Braverman is the Conservative MP for Fareham. She has previously chaired the European Research Group, and served as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State at the Department for Exiting the European Union. She read law at Queens’, and is a former chair of Cambridge University Conservative Association.
Christine Jardine MP Christine Jardine is a Scottish Liberal Democrat politician. She was elected as the Member of Parliament for Edinburgh West in 2017. She is the Liberal Democrats Spokesperson on Home Affairs, Justice, Women and Equalities and sits on the Scottish Affairs Committee at Westminster.
Student Speaker
Student Speaker
This could be you! Details for auditions can be found on page six.
This could be you! Details for auditions can be found on page six.
Floor Speech Prizes: Winner - Cocktail workshop for two at Ta Bouche Runner Up - Personal Styling session with Ros Giles 23
THIS HOUSE believes it’s too late Thursday 5th march
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Kindly sponsored by
Whether it’s the raging bushfires in Australia,‘unnatural’ rains in Indonesia, or melting ice caps, the Earth appears to be in an increasingly dire state.This has become the defining issue of our times and will continue to be, but is it too late? Can we simply ‘put an end’ to it? Will what we do be enough? Or are we screwed?
PROPOSITION
OPPOSITION
Proposition speakers to be provided by AstraZeneca
Baroness Bennett of Manor Castle
Proposition speakers to be provided by AstraZeneca
Cllr. Rod Cantrill
Natalie Bennett is a British politician and journalist who was born and raised in Australia. She led the Green Party of England and Wales from September 2012 to September 2016. Bennett was given a peerage in Theresa May’s 2019 resignation honours.
Rod Cantrill has been a city councillor for Newnham Ward in Cambridge since 2004, taking a leading role in climate initiatives - and fighting for the council to aim to be carbon neutral by 2025. He was the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary Candidate in the 2019 General Election, where he reduced the Labour majority significantly.
Student Speaker
Student Speaker
This could be you! Details for auditions can be found on page six.
This could be you! Details for auditions can be found on page six.
Floor Speech Prizes: Winner - Group Photoshoot at Dumbleton’s Photography plus print Runner Up - Meal for two at Crepe Affair 25
THIS HOUSE would rather be a spartan than an athenian Tue sday 10th march
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This special extra debate’s line-up is yet to be announced. Keep your eyes peeled for what should be a fabulous debate - exploring the historical rivalry of Sparta and Athens. The speakers have already confirmed, and are practicing their arguments. Marking 2500 years since the battles of Salamis and Thermopylae, this debate should aim to settle the ancient hellenistic debate, argued over generations, which was the greater: Athens or Sparta?
Floor Speech Prizes: Winner - Group Photoshoot at Dumbleton’s Photography plus print Runner Up - Meal for two at Crepe Affair 27
THIS HOUSE Believes there is still a point in the cambridge union Thursday 12th march
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Free speech, some claim, is threatened. Others argue that institutions like the Cambridge Union are fundamentally outdated – serve us ill, and produce the worst kind of future leaders of this country. Whether the Cambridge Union is a fulcrum for earnest and free debate, or an echo-chamber for a national elite, institutions like it are coming under renewed scrutiny. This debate will ask whether there is still a point in the place, as it celebrates its 205th year.
PROPOSITION
OPPOSITION
Gabriel Barton-Singer
To be announced
Gabriel is the current President of the Cambridge Union. He previously served as Executive Officer in Michaelmas of 2018 before losing his subsequent bid for the Presidency badly. He was Chair of the University Liberal Association from 2018-19, is a member of the Cambridge Footlights and is now reading for an MPhil in Modern British History.
To be announced
Colonel (Retd.) William Bailey MBE Bill Bailey is the Bursar of the Cambridge Union, and aside from a previous career in the military, has been based at the Union for over a decade, as he endlessly reminds us all. He has seen over 30 different standing committees here, and knows exactly what it is that the Union does.
Baron Parkinson of Whitley Bay Stephen Parkinson is a life peer, who was previously a special adviser to Theresa May as Home Secretary and Prime Minister, a think tank researcher, and a lobbyist. He wrote ‘Arena of Ambition’, the history of the Cambridge Union Society, and was President in Lent 2004.
Student Speaker This could be you! Details for auditions can be found on page six.
Floor Speech Prizes: Winner - Free Cocktail Workshop for two at La Raza Runner Up - Group Photoshoot at Dumbleton’s Photography Kindly sponsored by
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SPEAKERS Queueing and Balloting
Cancellations
At popular events where queues may arise, regular updates will be provided by the Union committee through our social media channels. We will also ballot some seats for our most popular events.
The following speakers have confirmed their attendance. However, in the case of cancellation we will always try our best to reschedule events as soon as possible and communicate the new details.
Meet the Speaker
Union +
Are you a big fan of one of our speakers? There may be opportunities for members to meet speakers throughout the terms - email speakers@ cus.org to register your interest.
If an event is labelled with the Union+ logo, it is open to all students of the university, not just members.)
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Hiromichi Mizuno 32 Ann Wroe 32 Secretary-General Ban Ki-Moon
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Baldwin Buckley Debate Screening 34 Good Morning Britain
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Bill Browder 35 Arafat Mazhar 36 Dr Adam Rutherford 36 The Rt. Honorable John Bercow
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Dame Sally Davies 38 Tawakkol Karman 39 Tarana Burke 39 JPEGMAFIA 40 Bari Weiss 41 Craig David and Colin Lester
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Will Young
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We will be releasing further speakers as and when they finalise throughout term so keep an eye on Facebook.
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Mr Mizuno is the Executive Managing Director and Chief Investment Officer for the world’s biggest pension fund, the Japanese Government Pension Investment (GPIF), where he oversees over $1.5 trillion in assets . During his stewardship of the GPIF, Mr Mizuno has shifted the landscape of the asset management industry through championing diversity in the workplace, ethical and sustainable investing, and artificial intelligence. He is one of the Founding Members of the Climate Finance Leadership Initiative (CFLI) as well as the Global Investors for Sustainable Development (GISD), and sits on numerous committees in an advisory role to the Japanese cabinet, including on the topics of “Growth Strategy in accordance with Paris Climate Change Agreement’ and “Healthcare and Medical Growth Strategy”.
hiromichi mizuno
He was the subject of a 2019 Harvard Business Case Study titled “Should a Pension Fund Try to Change the World?”.
Thursday 16th jan, 6pm
Ann Wroe is a writer, most recently notable for her unique style of obituary in the Economist (one a week, friend or foe). Recent subjects have included General Suleimani, Sir Christopher Lee and Toni Morrison. Her favourites to write, though, are obituaries for people (and things) noone has heard of - a Bell Foundry, a carp, a highwire climber or a man who thought he was a God. She has also written biographies of obscured or partially known figures, from Perkin Warbeck to Pontius Pilate. Please join us for this Q and A, in the smaller setting of the Kennedy Room, for what should be a fascinating and rare event.
This event is co-hosted by the Cambridge Review of Books.
ann wroe economist obituaries editor f r i d a y 2 4 t h j a n u a r y, 5 p m 32
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secretary General ban ki-moon
In April 2019, Mr. Ban has been elected as the Chairman of the Presidential National Council to deal with Particulate Matter.
tue sday 21st january
Mr. Ban has served two consecutive terms as the Secretary General of the United Nations (20072016). Throughout his tenure at the UN, Mr. Ban strove to be a bridge builder, to give voice to the world’s poorest and most vulnerable people, and to make the Organization more transparent and effective. He has pressed successfully for action to combat climate change- an effort that culminated in the adoption and rapid entry into force of the landmark Paris Agreement in 2016.
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Join us for this screening of the historic James Baldwin FR Buckley Junior debate. This debate, on the motion ‘This House Believes the American Dream has been achieved at the expense of the negro’ packed this chamber to the rafters, and the footage is striking. Prior to this event there will be a panel discussion of the event, with the President from the time, Peter Fullerton and David Heycock, a student who spoke in the event, alongside Nick Buccola who has written a book about the great debate. Do join us for this exciting and historical event, in the Chamber.
baldwin buckley debate screening w e d n e s d a y 2 9 t h j a n u a r y, 5.45pm
good morning britain
f r i d a y 3 1 s t j a n u a r y, 6 a m
On the day we leave the European Union Good Morning Britain will be broadcasting from the Cambridge Union live, with Piers Morgan and Susannah Reid. There will be an opportunity for a small number of members to watch live.
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bill browder w e d n e s d a y 2 9 t h j a n u a r y, 4 . 3 0 p m Bill Browder is an American-born British financier and political activist. He is the CEO and co-founder of Hermitage Capital Management, the investment advisor to the Hermitage Fund, which at one time was the largest foreign portfolio investor in Russia. The fund, and associated accounts, eventually grew to $4.5 billion of assets under management. November 13, 2005, Browder was refused entry to Russia, deported to the UK, and declared a threat to Russian national security.
He discovered that while those documents were in the custody of the police, they had been used to fraudulently reregister Hermitage’s holding companies to the name of an ex-convict. Five weeks after his second testimony, on November 24, 2008, Sergei Magnitsky was arrested at his home. While he was in custody, Magnitsky was mistreated, and eventually fell gravely ill. After Magnitsky’s death, Browder lobbied for Congress to pass the Magnitsky Act, a law to punish Russian human rights violators, which was signed into law in 2012 by President Barack Obama. In July 2017, Browder testified to the U.S. Senate Judiciary Committee on Russia’s alleged interference in the 2016 U.S. presidential election. Browder’s will be making an address to Union members followed by questions, in what should be a fascinating event.
Eighteen months after Browder was deported, on June 4, 2007, Hermitage Capital’s offices in Moscow were raided by twenty-five officers of Russia’s Interior Ministry. Browder assigned Sergei Magnitsky, head of the tax practice at Firestone Duncan, to investigate the purpose of the raid.
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Join the Cambridge Majlis and PakSoc who are hosting Arafat Mazhar at the Cambridge Union. Renowned for his specialist expertise in Pakistan’s blasphemy legislation, the young filmmaker and director of activist NGO Engage Pakistan is sharing with us the exclusive first screening of a short documentary exploring these laws, particularly in relation to their impact on free speech.
arafat mazhar
sunday 26th january
This will be followed by a Q&A with Mr. Mazhar, which will be a valuable opportunity for all involved. The event will conclude with a short debate on the motion: “This house believes theocracies are inherently oppressive”. Whether you have a well-established interest in the South Asia region or just looking for new things to hear, this promises to be a spectacularly informative occasion which is not to be missed! This event is open to members of all three societies.
Event in collaboration with Heffers to promote Adam’s new book “How to Argue With a Racist: History, Science, Race and Reality” Dr Adam Rutherford is a science writer and broadcaster. He studied genetics at UCL and helped identify the first genetic cause of a form of childhood blindness during his PhD at the Institute of Child Health at Great Ormond St Hospital. He has also edited for the journal “Nature”, and has written several books on biology and genetic science; his first book “CREATION” on the origin of life and synthetic biology was shortlisted for the Wellcome Trust Prize. On radio, Adam hosts the BBC Radio 4’s flagship science programme “Inside Science” and has presented several documentaries on topics ranging from the inheritance of intelligence to astronomy and art. He has written and presented several award winning television documentaries, including The Cell (2009), The Gene Code (2011), the Beauty of Anatomy (2014), and Playing God, on the rise of synthetic biology for the BBC’s long-running science series Horizon. Adam will be promoting his latest book “How to Argue With a Racist: History, Science, Race and 36 Reality”.
dr adam rutherford tue sday 4th february
The rt. honorable john bercow
Having initially been strongly associated with the right-wing faction of his party, his views shifted over time; by 2009 there were rumours that he would defect to the Labour Party, although Bercow denied these.
f r i d a y 1 4 t h f e b r u a r y, 1 . 3 0 p m John Bercow is a British politician who served as Speaker of the House of Commons from 2009 to 2019, and as Member of Parliament (MP) for Buckingham between 1997 and 2019. Prior to his election as Speaker, he was a Conservative Party MP. After being elected for Buckingham in 1997. Promoted to the Shadow Cabinet in 2001, Bercow held posts under Iain Duncan Smith and Michael Howard. In November 2002, he resigned over a dispute concerning his support for same-sex adoption, but returned a year later, only to be dismissed from the Shadow Cabinet in 2004. 37
Following the resignation of Speaker Michael Martin in June 2009, Bercow stood in the election to replace him and was successful. He went on to be re-elected Speaker unopposed at the start of the new Parliaments in 2010, 2015 and 2017. This made him the first Speaker since the Second World War to have been elected four times, as well as the first since then to have served alongside four Prime Ministers. In 2014, Bercow was appointed Chancellor of the University of Bedfordshire, and in July 2017 he was appointed Chancellor of the University of Essex. In September 2019, Bercow declared that he would stand down as Commons Speaker and MP on 31 October he did so. Having served 10 years as Speaker, Bercow became the longest-serving Speaker since Edward FitzRoy, who served nearly 15 years in post between 1928 and 1943.
Dame sally davies
f r i d a y 1 4 t h f e b r u a r y, 6 p m
Dame Sally Davies served as chief scientific advisor to the Department of Health from 2006-10, before being chosen to be the new Chief Medical Officer for England, a post she held until last September. She was elected Master of Trinity College in 2019, the first woman ever to hold the position since the foundation of the College in 1546.
In the New Year’s Honours she was appointed a Dame Grand Cross of the Order of the Bath the first woman outside the Royal Family ever to have held the post. Here from Dame Sally in one of her first major public events since arriving in Cambridge.
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Tawakkol Karman was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2011 in recognition of her work in nonviolent struggle for the safety of women and for women’s rights to full participation in peacebuilding work in Yemen. Upon being awarded the prize, Tawakkol became the first Yemeni, the first Arab woman, and the second Muslim woman to win a Nobel Peace Prize, as well as the youngest Nobel Peace Laureate at the time, at the age of 32.
tawakkol karman
friday 7th feb, 7pm
Tarana burke monday 18th feb Tarana Burke is a civil rights activist from The Bronx, New York who founded the Me Too movement. In 2006, Burke began using the phrase “Me Too” on social media to raise awareness of the pervasiveness of sexual abuse and assault in society. Time named Burke, among a group of other prominent activists dubbed “the silence breakers”, as the Time Person of the Year for 2017. Burke presents at public speaking events across the country and is currently Senior Director at Girls for Gender Equity in Brooklyn.
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A journalist by profession and human rights activist by nature, Tawakkol responded to the political instability and human rights abuses in Yemen by mobilizing others and reporting on injustices. In 2005, she founded the organization Women Journalists Without Chains, (WJWC) which advocates for rights and freedoms and provides media skills to journalists. The organization also produces regular reports on human rights abuses in Yemen, documenting more than 50 cases of attacks and unfair sentences against newspapers and writers to date.
JPEGMAFIA f r i d a y 2 8 t h f e b r u a r y, 7 p m Barrington Hendrick, known artistically as JPEGMAFIA, is an American rapper and producer from Baltimore, Maryland. Hendrick’s work is highly unusual and experimental in nature, blending and blurring genre, extensive sampling and digital distortion into a critically-acclaimed body of work that ranges from a cover of “Call Me Maybe” to the “Darkskin Manson” tape which was inspired by the Freddie Gray protests in his hometown, Baltimore.
It was in the military that Hendrick’s music career began in earnest - he regularly released his beats, songs and music videos under a pseudonym. His second studio album “Veteran”, released in 2018, propelled Peggy (as he is affectionately known by fans as) to an almost-cult online following and drew rave reviews from critics. His subsequent and latest album, “All My Heroes Are Cornballs”, released in 2019, was a huge success earning further artistic praise, including a 5-star review from the NME among others.
Hendricks enlisted in the United States Air Force at the of 18 following high school and one term in the US Air Force, during which he was deployed to Iraq, Kuwait, Afghanistan, North Africa and Japan.
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bari weiss in c onversation with maajid nawaz monday 2nd march, 5pm On 27 February 2020, Allen Lane will publish New York Times columnist Bari Weiss’ explosive debut, How to Fight Anti-Semitism. The book delves into a long-history of anti-Semitism dating back to 2nd century BC as well as exploring the alarming rise of hate-crimes against Jews today.
Maajid Nawaz is a British activist and radio presenter. He is the founding chairman of Quilliam, a counter-extremism think tank that seeks to challenge the narratives of Islamist extremists, and the host of a radio show on LBC, every Saturday and Sunday. In 2015 he was the Liberal Democrat Parliamentary candidate in Hampstead and Kilburn. He has been vocal in his allyship in the fight against anti-Semitism.
This book is an urgent wake-up call filled with examples of anti-Semites in the political sphere as well as today’s extremist attacks like the 2018 Pittsburgh Shooting – a massacre which took place at Bari’s own family synagogue. She argues a case for renewing Jewish culture, values and identity to rise above and eradicate anti-Semitism once and for all.
Weiss’ books will be available to purchase at and after the event.
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craig david & colin lester wedne sday 11th mar , 7.30pm
Craig David is a British singer, songwriter, rapper, DJ and record producer. 2020 marks 20 years since the critically-acclaimed album, ‘Born To Do It’ changed his life, Craig has since catapulted back into the charts and into the nation’s hearts with a string of chart hits and a Number 1 album marking the beginning of his triumphant return - his latest two albums, ‘Following my Intuition’ and ‘The Time is Now’ have since gone on to amass over 1.5 billion streams alone.
Craig will be joined by his manager, Colin Lester, the Chairman and CEO of the JEM Music Group. Since 1999, Lester has been working with David as his manager. Colin has also guided the careers of a wide range of artists for over three decades including, amongst others, The Brand New Heavies, Arctic Monkeys and Travis and in addition to his role as CEO/Chairman of JEM Entertainment Group he is an Honorary Doctorate recipient from Southampton Solent University where he is a regular lecturer.
Craig has racked up an astounding 23 UK top 40 singles, nine UK top 40 albums, amassed over 5 billion streams worldwide and has achieved multiplatinum status in more than 20 countries around the world in his career.
Lester is a recipient of the Peter Grant Award for his career as an artist manager, the Gold Badge Award’ by BASCA (The British Academy of Songwriters , Composers and Authors’) for his work with UK songwriters in 2007 and the ‘Artist Loyalty Award’ for his longstanding relationship with Craig David at the 2016 A&R awards. He is also on the board of trustees for the MOBO Charity (Music of Black Origin) and is also on the committee of the Holocaust charity ‘The 45 Aid Society’ where he annually raises funds for worthy community and aid projects on their behalf.
With two UK Number 1 albums under his belt, he has also received multiple BRIT Award and Grammy nominations, 4 x MOBO Awards, as well as becoming a 3x Ivor Novello Award winner.
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will young date to be c onfirmed for easter
Lookout for Will Young, who will be coming to the Union next term to discuss his new book How to be Gay. Will won the first series of Pop Idol in 2002. He was also nominated for an Olivier award for his acting in the film of the hit musical Cabaret. As a pop-star over the past two decades he has wowed fans with albums Keep On, Let it Go, 85% Proof and Echoes.
Will Young has won two Brit awards, had 12 nominations and sold over 8 million albums worldwide, making him a multi-millionaire. His album Friday’s Child went platinum five times and his debut From Now On went straight to number one. This should be a thrilling event.
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Hello All and Welcome back! This term we are adding to the bars already great reputation for cocktail and good drinks deals. With the new club nights coming up including the awesome “sumfin Sumfin� and the annual Superbowl party you will be sure where to go! The 1815 crew are on hand to serve you the best locally sourced gins and juices, ethically sourced coffee and freshly made sandwiches. Did you know that you can bring your own food in after 3pm? We are UBER-ROO friendly so bring your friends in and order from the best of Cambridge. Come in to the home of the River Cam Ice tea and flex your membership card to get your 15 percent discount. The 1815 Team
pa n e ls The Union does not just engage in debates, we understand that for some topics it is more appropriate to explore them in a different setting. Our panels offer the opportunity to explore fascinating issues with experts and world leaders. In short, our panels offer us a different view into the debates which shape our world.
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Female Heads of Houses
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Domestic Violence
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Pink Week 50 Beauty in an Instagram World 51 A Shackled Legacy
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The Wilberforce Society
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Female head of houses friday 17th january
Pippa Rogerson Pippa has been Master of Gonville & Caius College since 2018. She is also a Reader in Private International Law in the Faculty of Law, Cambridge University. Her research interests are in international commercial litigation in the English courts. She is presently the College Sexual Assault and Harassment contact. Before coming back to Cambridge to take a PhD Pippa qualified as a solicitor in a “magic circle” City law firm.
What is it like being a woman at the top in Cambridge? With a record high of female masters, do we still need to be talking about gender? What can being female bring to the role? Come along to hear the heads of Jesus, Gonville & Caius, and Girton discuss their experience, achievements, and the challenges they’ve faced to date in the role as a female Head of House. Sonita Alleyne The 41st Master and first woman to lead Jesus College since its foundation in 1496, Sonita is a businesswoman and entrepreneur. Brought up in East London, Sonita studied for her undergraduate degree in philosophy at Fitzwilliam College, Cambridge. A career in radio followed, including founding production company Somethin’ Else which she led as Chief Executive from 1991 until 2009. Winner of the Carlton Multicultural Achievement Award for TV and Radio in 2002, Sonita is a Fellow of both The Royal Society of the Arts and the Radio Academy. She was awarded an OBE for services to broadcasting in 2004. Sonita is the director and founder of the Yes Programme, an online careers information scheme which gives school pupils an insight into how classroom skills translate to real world careers.
Susan Smith Professor Susan J Smith is the Mistress of Girton College since October 2009 and is an Honorary Fellow of Social and Economic Geography in Cambridge University. She works on housing and various areas of inequality and is interested in the relationship of States, markets and ethic of care.
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domestic violence
monday 27th jan, 5pm
Elizabeth Woodcraft
Domestic violence is one of the most prevalent crimes in Britain, with an estimated two million 16-59 year olds affected by it last year. The upcoming Domestic Violence Bill, which Theresa May described as a ‘once-in-a-generation opportunity’ to help victims, has brought this issue to the forefront of public discussion. The aim of this panel is to challenge assumptions about who is affected by domestic violence, and the forms it can take.
Elizabeth has worked as the National Co-ordinator at the National WOmen’s Aid Federation, advised on the Domestic Violence and Matrimonial Proceedings Act of 1976, and between 1991-5 she was the Chair of Rights of Women, an organisation of women working on legal issues affecting women. Now, she is a full time writer, and uses her experiences as a barrister, representing domestic violence survivors, to inform her historical fiction novels.
Ainie Grainger
Lyndsey Dearlove
Along with her mother, Priscilla Grainger, a domestic violence survivor, Ainie is the founder of Stop Domestic Violence in Ireland, an organisation which provides support and advice for people trapped in abusive relationships. Ainie will be discussing her experiences growing up in a household with domestic violence, and her organisation’s work campaigning to ensure that domestic violence is recognised as a crime in Ireland.
Lyndsey is the Head of UK SAYS NO MORE, a national campaign which aims to raise awareness of domestic violence and sexual assault. As part of this, Lindsey worked to create a university ambassador programme, which has reached over 200 men, and will soon be launched in the U.S.
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pink week Controversies of breast cancer
monday 3rd february
Emma Campbell. Writer, freelance journalist, speaker and creator of the blog ‘Meandmyfour’. She received her cancer diagnosis shortly after a divorce and leaving her with newborn triplets. She is a mother of four and breast cancer patient and writes openly and honestly about her life experiences, particularly in her book “All That Followed: A Story of Cancer, Kids and the Fear of Leaving Too Soon”. She has recently collaborated with Lauren Mahon from Girl vs Cancer and constantly raises support and awareness for Breast Cancer research. “
Breast Cancer Haven. One of the three charities Pink Week are supporting this year. Haven provides lifelong personalized programs of physical, emotional and practical care for breast cancer patients and has centres across the UK. Breast Cancer Care & Now. They are one of the largest breast cancer charities in the UK and cover both research and care. They support breast cancer patients with access to nurses and support groups. They have invested £230 million in breast cancer research campaign for improved access to life saving drugs. Ellie Harding. Vice President of CATS Cambridge She is a 3rd year Medical student at Cambridge and has personally battled leukaemia for five years as a teenager. CATS stands for Cancer Awareness in Teenagers and Young People Society. It is a registered charity that was started in 2014 by students in Manchester, now based at several universities including Cambridge and aims to raise awareness in young people about symptoms of cancer and provide vital information for example when to see a GP.
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beauty in an instagram world monday 10th february
Simone Charles Simone Charles is a social media influencer and model who is an advocate for body confidence and body positivity. She has been in the industry for eight years and uses her Instagram and blog, thecurveboard.com, to share her message with her thousands of followers which is “live your truth, regardless of size, weight or colour”. She also holds a BSc Psychology and MSc Consumer Behaviour, has co-authored a research paper assessing the role of media in shaping societal norms and recently spoke on BBC Radio London to talk about her work in the field.
Is Instagram a space for liberating self-expression, or a toxically competitive and comparative environment? What impacts are the beauty industry and surrounding social media platforms having on our mental health? How do we create role models and promote body positivity in these spaces? Come along to hear women in the industry talk about their experiences in and opinions on modelling, cosmetics, and body positivity in the world of Instagram Sonny Turner Sonny pioneers the #BeautyBeyondSize and has worked on huge campaigns with the likes of Primark, ASOS, and Figleaves. Last year, she teamed up with Chamrot, the New York based clothes line which challenges the sizing assumptions and impositions of designers, for New York fashion week. She is not afraid to speak out about the problems in the industry but also emphasises the positive value of social media when it champions real women’s bodies.
Simran Randhawa Simran is a writer, model, and digital influencer, and was formerly assistant politics editor at gal-dem. Her current work focuses on the intersection between her Indian heritage and Western upbringing, and she pushes to #decoloniseyourwardrobe. With an Instagram following 114k strong, she has worked with Vogue, Estee Lauder, and Nike and her work has been featured in publications such as Dazed and Nylon.
Jada Sezer Jada has a Masters in Child Psychotherapy but during her studies noticed the powerful affect the media has on young people’s development and its devastating results from lack of representation. She begun campaigning on Instagram and grew a following instantaneously. Her uplifting message and unique images went viral and she became one of UK’s first plus-size models championing self esteem, body confidence and mental wellness. 51
a shackled legacy
universities and the slave trade monday 2nd march, 7pm
Professor Jody Allen Dr. Jody Allen is an Assistant Professor of History at the College of William & Mary, the secondoldest institution of higher education in the United States, after Harvard University. In 2009, William & Mary passed a resolution acknowledging the institution’s role as a slaveholder and established the Lemon Project: A Journey of Reconciliation. Dr. Allen is the Director of the Lemon Project, a dynamic effort to confront the history of slavery and racial discrimination at the College. The recommendations in her report have included revising undergraduate courses to help students learn about the complexities of institutional slavery and establishing a memorial to enslaved people at William & Mary.
With Cambridge’s decision to launch an inquiry into its links to slave trade, the legacy of slavery at universities is a topic that is more important than ever. How should we approach the troubled past at some of the most esteemed institutions in the UK? How will it shape their legacy in the years to come? Come hear from people working in this space at universities both at home and in the US, about their experiences in conducting similar investigations into an issue that has been overlooked for too long. Councillor Graham Campbell Councillor Campbell is Glasgow’s first councillor of African-Caribbean descent and an external adviser for the report published last year by the University of Glasgow on its ties to slavery. The university has since embarked on a programme of reparative justice, pledging to raise £20m to fund a joint centre for development research with the University of the West Indies. Under Councillor Campbell’s leadership, the city’s council has launched a study into Glasgow’s controversial links with slave labour, the first to be conducted by a local authority in the UK. 52
THE WILBERFORCE SOCIETY CONFERENCE 2020 VISION: THE NEXT DECADE OF GLOBAL POLICY CHALLENGES 29TH FEBRUARY 2020 | 12:30PM-7PM | THE CAMBRIDGE UNION
FREE FOR WILBERFORCE AND CAMBRIDGE UNION MEMBERS £8 FULL DAY TICKET | £3 SINGLE PANEL TICKET
GLOBALISM VS NATIONALISM KEYNOTE SPEAKER: DR PHILIP LEE
THE TENSION BETWEEN GLOBALISM AND NATIONALISM AND THE IDEAS THEY ENTAIL, AND EXPLORING HOW THESE SENTIMENTS HAVE DEVELOPED OVER TIME, USING BREXIT AS A CASE STUDY
THE SURVEILLANCE STATE
KEYNOTE SPEAKERS: SIR DAVID OMAND AND SILKIE CARLO CONTEMPORARY ISSUES OF INCREASINGLY SOPHISTICATED METHODS OF SURVEILLANCE IN RELATION TO PERSONAL FREEDOM AND NATIONAL SECURITY
GROWTH AND INEQUALITY
KEYNOTE SPEAKER: DR FAIZA SHAHEEN EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ECONOMIC GROWTH AND INCOME INEQUALITY, AND DISCUSSING THE MEANS BY WHICH GROWTH CAN BE ACHIEVED WITHOUT THE TRADEOFF OF INCOME INEQUALITY
PUBLIC POLICY WORKSHOP EXPERT-LED WORKSHOPS THAT WILL PROVIDE A GLIMPSE INTO THE FORMULATION OF PUBLIC POLICY
NETWORKING OPPORTUNITY INTERACT WITH RENOWNED SPEAKERS, CAMBRIDGE ACADEMICS AND STUDENTS
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social events “This House Believes that getting to know fellow Union members is just as important as seeing the figures that we invite to speak. It is our great hope that by attending the social events we have on this term, members will meet new people, make new friends, have important conversations and learn new things about the world and about each other. The free exchange of thoughts and ideas certainly doesn’t have to stop when debates do.�
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Meditation 56 Sumfin Sumfin 56 Sunday Mornings at the Union
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Open Mic: Music & Comedy
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Gin and Jazz 58 Charity Puppy Therapy
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A Parisian-Style Salon
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Chill Time with Jack’s Gelato
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Yoga
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Post-Debate Socials 61
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meditation s u n d a y 1 9 t h j a n u a r y, 2 p m Escape from the hustle and bustle of Cambridge life and learn about the extraordinary power of meditation. The Krishna Consciousness Society will teach you about the importance of meditation, then you can experience its effects firsthand as we guide you through two key methods: music meditation and mantra meditation.
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sunday mornings at the union
In the hustle and bustle of Cambridge life it’s rare to get a chance to sit down, read the papers and feel like your life is in order. Luckily we’ve got your back. If there are particular papers you would like to be available please email ents@cus.org and we will see what we can do.
10am - 12pm 26th january 2nd february 9th february 16th february 1st march 8th march
We’ll aim to wind up by noon, giving us all time to head over to various college brunches. Please do join us for Sunday Mornings at the Cambridge Union, you are very welcome.
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open mic music & comedy s a t u r d a y 8 t h f e b r u a r y, 8 p m We will be showcasing the best of student talent here at Cambridge with a great evening of entertainment for you. If you are a budding comedian or musician, be sure to email ents@cus. org to secure a performance slot. Fortune favours the brave!
Gin and jazz f r i d a y 2 1 s t f e b r u a r y, 8 p m See in the start to the roaring ‘20s in style, with an evening of culture. The bar will be stocked up with a multitude of cocktails on offer. From there, wander into the chamber and enjoy the sounds of renowned jazz quintet, Magnetik Lettuce. It will be a night you won’t want to miss. Keep an eye out for the ticket release!
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charity puppy therapy sunday 1st march We are teaming up with CATS (Cancer Awareness in Teenagers and Young People Society) to bring you some furry friends who will melt away all of your stress. CATS is a brilliant charity which works to make sure that everyone knows the most common signs and symptoms of cancer in young people. As an illness which is so often perceived to be something which only older people get, their work is vital. All of the profits from this event will go to them. Look out for tickets!
a parisian style salon tue sday 3rd march, 7pm Don’t turn up to this event looking to get your hair done; a salon is a gathering of people looking to increase their knowledge and refine their tastes through conversation. Salons flourished in France in the traditions of the French literary and philosophical movements in the 17th and 18th centuries but have appeared in many cultures, and in many times. Typically, there will be a theme and something to kick-start the discussion (both intellectual and creative prompts, such as a poetry reading or an expert providing their opinion). But, most importantly, salons are not lectures, they are group conversations. Expect all of these things. Further details will be released in due course. 59
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yoga
Camyoga, which has 4 yoga studios across Cambridge, is sending us one of their brilliant teachers to teach a class of relaxing yoga. Unwind, stretch out and find some calm in a supportive environment. This class is open to those of all abilities, whether you are a beginner, have any physical impairments or have been practising yoga for years. The word ‘yoga’ comes from ‘to yoke’ or ‘to come together’, and so it is this coming together which is the most important thing, coming together with others and coming together with yourself and your own body. Please contact ents@cus.org if you have any access related questions.
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post debate socials This House Believes that what happens after the debate is just as important as the debate itself. And what could be more conducive to reflecting on the great questions of the evening than indulging in our topical tipples at the bar with fellow Union members? After our literary debate, pontificate on the purpose of art with a Tequila Mockingbird in hand, a Rum Of One’s Own, or perhaps a Pitcher of Dorian Gray. At our debate on New Labour, whilst contemplating whether or not you like the figures themselves, you can be guaranteed to enjoy a Sherry Blair, a Negroni Blair or a Gordon’s Brown in drink form.
standing committee
EXECUTIVE OFFICER Emaan Ullah
PRESIDENT Gabriel-Barton Singer
VICE PRESIDENT Alycia Leach
SPEAKERS OFFICER Abhiram Bibekar
TREASURER Frederick Fisk
DEBATING OFFICER Achilleas Papadimitriou
EXECUTIVE-ELECT Sara Dehvari
SPEAKERS-ELECT Joshua Kimblin
SOCIAL EVENTS OFFICER Phoebe Pickering
PRESIDENT-ELECT Adam Davies
By-election forthcoming
By-election forthcoming
DIVERSITY OFFICER -ELECT
SOCIAL EVENTSELECT
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appointees
WOMEN’S OFFICER Jess Molyneux
ACCESS OFFICER Trudy Yates
DIVERSITY OFFICER Areesha Saif
SPEAKERS’ COMMITTEE Secretary Head of Events Management Senior Guest Liaison, Debates Senior Guest Liaison, Speakers Head of Press Head of Publicity Head of Audio-Visual Senior Photographer Deputy Head of Events Management Events Management Officers Guest Liaison, Debates Guest Liaison, Speakers Press Officer Publicity Officers Deputy Head of Audio-Visual Junior Photographer Video Editor Membership & Development Officer Recruitment Officer Librarian
Luke Hallam Kevin Rebello Naomi Kilcoyne Grace Smithson Jungmin Seo Kyoka Hadano Patrick Connolly & Leonardos Markakis Nordin Catic Cary Godsal Curtis Trynka, Tara Bhagat, Ike Qian & Andrew Martin Jamie Siviter, Lara Brown & Rory Hamilton Coggins Joel Rosen, Andrew Osipov & Veronica Wang Samuel Rubinstein Louis Van Steene, Georgia Gray & Ashlan Richards Francois Vibert & Vincent Wang Levente Koroes Kieron Spoors Daniel Brooks Oliver Layzell Peter Hunt
PRESIDENT’S COMMITTEE Chair Secretary
Rebecca Grubb Edmund Crawley
SPEAKERS’ COMMITTEE Brett Gutstein Cary Godsal Gina Jihyun Kwon Ibrahem Alheyali Iqra Bawany Olivia Bisbee Sarah Dees
Sunil Grewal Tara Bhagat Tereza Zoumpalova Tineke Harris Vincent Wang Yashodhara Varma Yichun Xu
TREASURER’S COMMITTEE Jake Lowry Eshan Gupta Danial Surti Alisha Raja
Ike Quian Sophie McLellan Rishit Jain Macy Chung
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staff and governance TRUSTEES The Rt. Hon. The Lord Smith of Finsbury PC (chair) Dr. Nigel Brown OBE Dr. Nigel Yandell Nick Heath FRICS The Hon. Daniel Janner QC David Branch
Araba Taylor Rachel Green David Robinson The President of the Union, Gabriel Barton-Singer The Vice President of the Union, Alycia Leach
THE DIRECTORS OF CAMBRIDGE UNION SOCIETY ENTERPRISES LTD Col. (Ret) William Bailey The President of the Union, Gabriel Barton-Singer The Vice President of the Union, Alycia Leach
Dr. Nigel Brown OBE Rachel Green David Robinson
REVIEW COMMITTEE Joshua Blanchard Lewis (ex officio Vice President, 2008-9) (Chair) Alex Forzani (ex officio Vice President, 2012-13) Nick Wright (ex officio Vice President, 2014-15) Page Nyame-Satterthwaite (ex officio President, Michaelmas 2017) Frederick Dyke (ex officio Executive Officer, Michaelmas 2014) Samuel Longton (ex officio Social Events Officer, Lent 2019) Imran Mateo (ex official debating Officer 2017-18)
STAFF Col. (Ret.) William Bailey MBE - Bursar Joe Burman - General Manager Stephen Chukaulim - Senior AV Technician Louise Gamon - Membership Secretary
Katherine Connelly - Events Coordinator Sabine Edwards - Advertising & Sponsorship Sam Heap - Bar Manager Phil Caldecoat - Site Supervisor
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Astra Zeneca as a Corporate Patron of the Union. We would also like to thank the following sponsors for this term: TPP Doxa CanO Water Michael Page
president’s thanks First of all I’d like to thank the Cambridge Union members who voted for me to be President. I’d like to thank the ones who rejected my candidacy the first time, without whom I would not be writing this today, and the ones who voted for me the second time; together you all conspired to allow me the privilege of being President in Lent 2020. Secondly I’d like to thank my parents for the extraordinary act of insight they demonstrated by conceiving and then raising me, and my brother for managing not to strangle me.
To the full committee and those hardy soles who helped during the winter months of the vacation – you are gems and I’m looking forward to working with you more closely.
Most people who bother reading the President’s Thanks are fellow hacks who want to scour this page to read between the lines to find out which committee members have pulled their weight, and which haven’t. I am in the lucky position of having had a supportive and brilliant team, and so you won’t get much of that from me. I wish more people read this page though, because most of our members don’t realise, actually realise, how much work it is to put together a termcard. Speakers aren’t at our beck and call, the scrutiny is significant, our budget is limited, we all have degrees and other societies in our lives – every termcard is the product of a huge amount of work, and a whole load of people deserve credit. A cast of characters who are, day to day, largely invisible to the membership, are the lifeblood of this society, and what keeps us functioning.
To Jess, who has been a brilliant Women’s Officer, I can only offer heartfelt thanks; there are events on this termcards that are all yours and for which I deserve no credit – I hope you get it from others, I think you are fantastic.
The staff at the Union are underthanked and brilliant. Bill Bailey, our inimitable bursar, who keeps the show on the road and always reminds us (not needing to remind himself) that it is our society. Louise, you are quite simply the most competent person I have ever come across, this building can’t function without you. Francesca, thank you for bringing our accounting back from the brink. Joe – aside from coming up with a brilliant business plan to take the Union into this decade – you have also been personally invaluable as tech support; a functioning computer in a functioning office, who knew it was an eight person six week job? Sam, your endless patience with students who haven’t a clue is endearing, until we realise your real motivation is to keep us sweet enough that we’ll drink in the 1815. You have been brilliant, responsive at late notice, energetic above and beyond the call of duty; it’s great to work with you. Stephen – I don’t know you so well but you seem very friendly and extra competent, so it should be fun. Katherine - you have compiled this termcard and have been endlessly patient with late amendments, slow additions and general incompetence, you have my undying affection.
Phoebe, my Social Events Officer, despite being elected late to the office, you have thrown yourself brilliantly into the work, even running an event out of term time. I look forward to the parties, and I hope that you have found new and good friends at the Union.
Alycia, my Vice-President, thanks for being a continual source of support. Thank you for urging me to run again, you have been an endless source of strength. Your wholehearted belief in this society and its promise keeps us all on the straight and narrow.
Trudy, as Access Officer, your organisation and determination to realise my vision of bringing in schools for every debate has been fruitful, and I’m looking forward to a term of running those workshops with you; you have done an excellent job and gone so often above and beyond the call of duty. Areesha, despite hiccups, you have fulfilled your role at Diversity with elan, and I hope you are proud of the Majlis event.
Freddie, you’re extraordinary energy in the often overlooked role of Treasurer has secured a ludicrously large number of deals for members. It’s almost invisible to the committee, but these deals are central to giving our members value for money – your wide-ranging contributions beyond your brief have been brilliant, and I look forward to more of them. Abhiram, you have been an assiduous Speakers Officer, pulling us back from the brink with an exceptional capacity for concentrated work. You should be very proud of the termcard you have helped to create, and again, the contributions you have made beyond your office.
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president’s thanks Emaan, you have the unfortunate position of being the Executive Officer, it’s a job I once held. Almost all the workload of the Presidency, but with almost none of the credit. Well you get credit from me in the bucketloads, your hard work in this job has paid off with an extraordinary range and extent of debates. Your ceaseless work has built a brilliant term, and you should be forever proud of it. I owe many people outside of the Union thanks, not least my MPhil supervisor for accepting that I will do almost no work this term, thanks Peter. Peter’s forbearance on this occasion only represents the multitude of supervisors who have seen my work suffer because of the Union, so I apologise to Dr Millett (brilliant supervisions, underused by me), Dr Cordiner (he managed to grill essays I’d failed to write), Dr Fulda (even though he hated me), Dr Valdez (even though he insisted Dr Fulda didn’t hate me), Dr McCarthy (whose endless support I do need but don’t deserve) and Dr Serjeantson; he may regret it but he did let me into this University. Angus and Rhianna, as a pair you have been a source of wisdom, constitutional advice, moral and intellectual strength – I cannot thank you enough. I hope you’re happy with what you created; because it was you two who gave me the first fatal vampire bite of encouraging me to steward events. To Will Smart, thank you for your nomination, and your steadfast support; it has been my privilege to follow you twice into positions of honour and authority, often in the proximity of Shirley Williams. To my alumni supporters, especially Seth Thevoz, David Grace and Peter Stevens, thank you for continuing to care about student politics, though perhaps your support is just sweet escapism from how childish the adult politics has become. Friso, you allowed me to keep my hand in at being a comedian whilst I did none of the work – I am endlessly grateful, to the rest of the Coalition, you know what to do; he remains a threat.
Edmund and Matilda, you have been brilliant friends, wonderful allies and epicurean company; can’t wait to keep boozing with you in retirement. Sir Harry, gone but not forgotten, your memorial press bench is on its way. Chatreen, late to the show but already a classic character, I look forward to seeing what happens next; it’ll be dodge. To everybody in CULA (too many to name) and the local Liberal Democrats, you are pillars of strength in the fight for a liberal society, and it’s an honour to know you all, you crazed bunch of reprobates. As my good friend Alfie would say, a good thank you is a complete thank you, your focus on everybody except your girlfriend makes yours woefully incomplete. To my wonderful girlfriend Becky, who had just about forgiven me for running for President once, but who ran my campaign twice, I couldn’t have done it without you, and I won’t. Your support and belief in me has been overwhelming when I have been underwhelming; I adore you.
Gabriel Barton-Singer President, Lent 2020 PS Thanks to the Union for finding some small place for me in its 205 year history...