Oxford Union
Hilary 2016
Stuart Webber President
Welcome
Welcome to Hilary Term 2016 at the Oxford Union!
It is a sad reality that Presidents of the Union have, in recent years, felt compelled to write about the prescribed limitations to free speech and how this Society must defend itself against these attacks. As we look ahead to a new year, these dangers are perhaps more serious than ever before. The Union was founded at a time when free speech and debate were under threat: University authorities censored publications and dissuaded the free discussion of ideas, leaving students in fear of punishment and recrimination. Worryingly, this is not just a narrative from the past, but the reality we frequently hear about in the UK today. As university campuses consistently refuse platforms for ‘extreme’ speakers, the Union must, and indeed will, continue to resist this trend and provide a forum in order to debate even the most controversial of figures. It is important to recognise the fine distinction that defines Union events. We never provide a platform from which a speaker can espouse their views untested; we always provide a forum in which ideas can be discussed, argued, and challenged. By contrast, university student unions all too often decide they have the responsibility to take partisan judgements,
be it to ‘no-platform’ speakers, or to pass motions of condemnation on behalf of all the students they supposedly represent. This is the real and pressing threat we face to freedom of speech. This is what the Oxford Union will always argue against. Over the Christmas vacation, we tried to design a calendar of events with speakers who are the most influential, interesting, and engaging in their field, no matter how ‘extreme’ they may be deemed, or how few other institutions are willing to host them. I hope you will see that our term card reflects this. The dedication of the superb HT16 Committee has been repaid in full by the exceptional line-up of speakers and debates we all can look forward to over the next three months. I will let the pages which follow speak for themselves. If you are interested in getting involved, then I cannot encourage you enough to join the elected committee. It takes a lot of effort, of course; but the longest journeys often prove to be the most enjoyable, and always begin with the first step.
Stuart Webber Somerville College
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Oxford Union
LIBRARIAN’S WELCOME
TREASURER’S WELCOME
I hope that you have all enjoyed your vacations and feel ready and rested for another busy eight weeks in Oxford! As Librarian, it is my job to organise the visits of speakers who will be coming this term. Whilst you were at home, indulging in Christmas leftovers, the Union’s Committee has been working tirelessly to bring you what we think is a fantastic line-up of speakers – and we hope you'll agree. From award-winning actors and musicians, to world leaders and renowned politicians, there is something for everyone!
Welcome back! I hope you had a lovely vacation and, if you’re not looking forward to the winter months ahead, hopefully the quality of our line‑up will prove to be something of a relief.
We are still arranging dates for a number of speakers, so do make sure to read our emails and keep an eye out on social media for more information. I also want to remind you all that there are randomly balloted spaces for members at all of our drinks and photo events with speakers. I really encourage everyone to ballot for these in order to make the most of your membership – again, more information will be sent out via email and available on Facebook. As well as inviting speakers, my role (astonishingly) is to look after our truly beautiful library and I hope to see you all there! If you would like to meet any of this term’s speakers, or are interested in joining the esteemed Library Committee, please do not hesitate to drop me an email at librarian@oxford-union.org. Niamh Coote Pembroke College
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The Treasurer’s Office has been hard at work all holiday and thankfully this has paid off. Having spent Michaelmas modernising and developing our sponsorship strategy, we have built a range of new partnerships with industry-leading companies. On top of this, we have sealed two major media agreements, bringing in tens of thousands of pounds and significantly furthering the global recognition of our brand. With more than double the number of international speakers coming this term compared to last, it’s clear to see that we are already reaping the benefits. For those more concerned with Pieminister than Prime Ministers, there are six new Treasurer’s Treats on top of more than 25 we’ve renewed from last term. Finally, we’re introducing a particularly exciting initiative: prizes from our sponsors for the best floor speakers during Thursday night debates, so make sure you come along and get involved. You might just get a free bottle of champagne! As always, if you have any feedback or suggestions, or are interested in getting involved, feel free to email me at treasurer@oxford-union.org. Noah Lachs Lincoln College
Hilary 2016
SECRETARY’S WELCOME Happy New Year and welcome back to Oxford! I hope you all had wonderful holiday and that you’re looking forward to enjoying the social events that we have lined up for you this term. We have worked hard over the vacation to ensure that we can put on a wide range of activities for all our members. As a result, there’s a great line up of events for you all: from pub quizzes and drinks events to the Charlie and the Chocolate Factory Ball! The central location of the Members' Bar, beautiful setting, and 25% members’ discount make it pretty hard to beat, so do take advantage of it and keep a look out for some sports screenings coming up. We look forward to seeing you soon! The Union really is yours, and that is perhaps most true of its social aspects. If you have any ideas for social events, changes you would like to make to the bar, or would like to get involved then please do get in touch! If you’re interested in helping to organise these events, or in holding a position on the Union’s illustrious Wines and Spirits Committee, do feel free to send me an email at secretary@oxford-union.org.
TERM CARD CONTENTS Debates
04
Speakers
20
Specials
56
Info
64
Who’s Who
72
Stay Informed
75
Henna Dattani Brasenose College
3
Oxford Union
4
Hilary 2016
D E B AT E S
1 ST W E E K
6
2 ND W E E K
8
3 RD W E E K
10
4 TH W E E K
12
5 TH W E E K
14
6 TH W E E K
16
7 TH W E E K
18
5
Oxford Union
1 ST W E E K D E B AT E
THIS HOUSE BELIEVES
HOLOCAUST DENIAL SHOULD NOT BE CRIMINALISED IN T H E 2 1 ST C E N T U R Y T H U R S D AY 2 1 J A N U A R Y | 8 . 3 0 p m
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Hilary 2016
PROPOSITION
Sir Richard Evans
Professor Deborah Lipstadt
A renowned historian and author, Evans is the leading authority on 19th and 20th century Germany. He was expert witness in the high profile libel case of Holocaust denier, David Irving, against Deborah Lipstadt.
Dorot Professor of Modern Jewish History and Holocaust Studies at Emory University. Her research focuses on the development of Holocaust denial, most famously in her book Denying the Holocaust: The Growing Assault on Truth and Memory.
Professor Charles Asher Small
Franรงois de Smet
An expert in social and cultural theory, with particular specialisation in racism and contemporary antisemitism studies. Small is the founder and Director of the Institute for the Study of Global Antisemitism and Policy.
The Director of Myria, a Belgian public body which analyses the evolution of migration and combats human trafficking. De Smet has also written extensively on human rights in modern political philosophy.
OPPOSITION
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Oxford Union
2 ND W E E K D E B AT E
THIS HOUSE BELIEVES
POSI T I V E DIS CR I M I N AT I ON IS THE BEST SO LU T I O N TO A N UNE QUA L SOCIETY T H U R S D AY 2 8 J A N U A R Y | 8 . 3 0 p m
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Hilary 2016
PROPOSITION
Lucy Drescher
Kate Kinninmont
The Head of Parliamentary Advocacy at RESULTS UK, an NGO working to end extreme poverty through advocacy and campaigning. Drescher is heavily involved in organisations that are focused on disability and development, including Sense International.
As Chief Executive of Women in Film and Television UK, Kinninmont is at the forefront of highlighting gender issues in the media. She received an MBE in 2014 for services to the film and television industry and has worked as a TV Director and Producer for the BBC.
Sunny Hundal
Katie Hopkins
A journalist, lecturer, consultant, and author. Hundal has written for The Guardian, The Financial Times, and The Independent. He ran Liberal Conspiracy, the UK’s most popular left-of-centre blog, until 2013. His research focuses on counter-terrorism, identity politics, and South Asian news.
A television personality known for her appearance on The Apprentice and Celebrity Big Brother. She is now a columnist for The Sun and has earned widespread media attention for her controversial comments.
OPPOSITION
9
Oxford Union
3 RD W E E K D E B AT E
THIS HOUSE WOULD
SACRIFICE TRADE WITH CHINA IN PROTEST OF HUMAN RIGHTS ABUSES T H U R S D AY 4 F E B R U A R Y | 8 . 3 0 p m
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Hilary 2016
PROPOSITION
Prime Minister Lobsang Sangay
Natalie Bennett
As Prime Minister of the Tibetan Government in Exile, Sangay has worked closely with the Dalai Lama in seeking a peaceful resolution with China. He is also a legal scholar and an expert in Tibetan law and international human rights law.
Leader of the Green Party since 2012, Bennett is an active critic of human rights abuses both in the UK and overseas. She has contributed extensively to The Guardian and spent four years working as a journalist in South East Asia.
Sir Malcolm Rifkind
Kevin Brennan MP
As former Chairman of the Intelligence and Security Committee, and former Defence and Foreign Secretary, Rifkind spent over 25 years as an MP. During his time as Foreign Secretary, he oversaw the final negotiations with China over the transfer of Hong Kong.
Shadow Minister for Trade, Investment and Intellectual Property and MP for Cardiff West. Brennan is outspoken in his prioritisation of British economic independence but favours trade with China. He is a former President of the Oxford Union.
OPPOSITION
11
Oxford Union
4 TH W E E K D E B AT E
THIS HOUSE BELIEVES
NUCLEAR WEAPONS H AV E N O P L A C E I N 2 1 ST C E N T U R Y B R I TA I N T H U R S D AY 1 1 F E B R U A R Y | 8 . 3 0 p m
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Hilary 2016
PROPOSITION
Kate Hudson
Katherine Hamnett
General Secretary of the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament. She campaigns for security for future generations through nonviolent means, and has commented that the nuclear debate is at its most critical point since the Cold War.
A British fashion designer who created t-shirts for the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament. She is also a committed activist, having joined the 55th Easter demonstration against the Atomic Weapons Establishment, headquartered at Aldermaston in 2013.
Dr Andreas Stradis
Paul Schulte
Senior Research Fellow for the Atlantic Council, an organisation which seeks to analyse the development of NATO and the position of the UK within the alliance. Stradis research interests include the history of warfare and cultures of war.
Visiting Senior Research Fellow in the Centre for Science and Security Studies at King’s College London. Schulte was the founding head of the UK’s PostConflict Reconstruction Unit, now known as the Stabilisation Unit.
OPPOSITION
13
Oxford Union
5 TH W E E K D E B AT E
THIS HOUSE WOULD
PRIORITISE PUBLIC SAFETY OVER THE RIGHT TO STRIKE T H U R S D AY 1 8 F E B R U A R Y | 8 . 3 0 p m
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Hilary 2016
PROPOSITION
Sir Bernard Hogan-Howe
Deborah Lawson
Commissioner of London's Metropolitan Police since 2011, having spent time with forces in South Yorkshire and Merseyside. Hogan-Howe is known for his no-nonsense approach to his role and a dedication to public safety through 'Total Policing'.
General Secretary of Voice, an independent trade union for education professionals committed to never striking or engaging in industrial action. LAwson is outspoken in her support for negotiation and positive dialogue in the workplace.
Dr Johann Malawana
Andy Gilchrist
As Chair of the Junior Doctors Committee, Malawana is leading negotiations on behalf of medical professionals with the Government over proposed changes to contracts. Described by Jeremy Hunt as a 'militant', he will be organising the strikes in January and February.
A former General Secretary of the Fire Brigades Union, in 2002 Gilchrist led the first nationwide firefighters' strike since the 1970s. He was instrumental in the disaffiliation of the FBU from the Labour Party in 2004.
OPPOSITION
15
Oxford Union
6 TH W E E K D E B AT E
THIS HOUSE BELIEVES
THE WEST HAS NO RESPONSIBILITY T O TA K E M I L I TA R Y ACTION AGAINST ISIS T U E S D AY 2 3 F E B R U A R Y | 8 . 3 0 p m
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Hilary 2016
PROPOSITION
George Galloway
John Baron MP
A vocal critic of the Blair government's handling of the Iraq War, Galloway left the Labour Party in 2003 and represented Bradford West as a Respect Party MP from 2012 until 2015, when he lost his seat.
Conservative MP for Basildon and Billericay. Baron has consistently opposed military action in the Middle East in the House of Commons, resigning from the frontbench in 2003 in protest of the Iraq War. He recently voted in opposition to air strikes against ISIS.
Lt. Gen. Robert Mood
Lt. Gen. Graeme Lamb
Having headed the United Nations' Supervision Mission in Syria in 2012, Mood is a celebrated and decorated officer for both the Norwegian Army and NATO. He has also written extensively about his experiences in the Middle East.
Commander of the Field Army from 2007-2009, Lamb was significant in the strategic development of the Iraq War, most notably with regards to counterinsurgency. In 2015, he commented that "doing nothing is not an option".
OPPOSITION
17
Oxford Union
7 TH W E E K D E B AT E
THIS HOUSE BELIEVES
THE OBAMA A D M I N I S T R AT I O N HAS BEEN A SUCCESS T H U R S D AY 3 M A R C H | 8 . 3 0 p m
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Hilary 2016
PROPOSITION
Proposition TBA These speakers are to be announced.
Steven Erlanger
Mallory Factor
Currently the Bureau Chief for the New York Times in London, Erlanger has reported from more than 120 countries. He has been outspoken in raising the challenges facing the Obama administration in its final months.
Political commentator and FoxNews contributor, Factor is the author of Shadowbosses, an exposĂŠ of government employee union power over American politics. His latest book, Big Tent, serves as an intellectual history of conservatism in America.
OPPOSITION
19
Oxford Union
We’ve taken great care to ensure that, at the time of printing, all the times for invited guest speakers are accurate. However, one problem with inviting such interesting and influential speakers is that their schedules can change at short notice. If this happens during term, we apologise in advance and will do everything we can to update you on any changes as soon as we are made aware of them. For any speakers listed as ‘To be Confirmed’, we are still negotiating dates and times. We will ensure that, as soon as we know a date for an event, we will pass that information on to our membership.
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Hilary 2016
SPEAKERS
1 ST W E E K
22
2 ND W E E K
24
3 RD W E E K
27
4 TH W E E K
31
5 TH W E E K
33
6 TH W E E K
34
7 TH W E E K
40
8 TH W E E K
44
21
Oxford Union
1 ST W E E K
M U S T R H O D E S FA L L? The Rhodes Must Fall movement’s proponents have been labelled hypocrites, revisionists and fascists; its opponents have been called colonialists, racists, and white supremacists. Such name-calling distracts from the fundamental issues at hand: colonial legacy, institutional racism, and the best methods of response. Bypassing the ad hominem attacks miring the debate at present, we want to address fundamental questions about the way our society works. Does removing the statue simply represent cosmetic change? Can symbols of the past serve as important reminders of oppression? Is it possible, or even necessary, to alter an historical narrative when society at large changes its mind? By discussing these issues with a panel of experts – activists, academics and journalists – we aim to tackle an issue that has prompted debate on an unprecedented scale.
T U E S D AY 1 9 J A N U A R Y | 8 . 0 0 p m
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Hilary 2016
Professor Richard Drayton
Professor William Beinart
Rhodes Professor of Imperial History at King’s College London. Drayton's inaugural lecture for the role focused on the necessity of a post- and antiimperial emancipatory direction to research, and the need to highlight hidden oppressions.
Professor of Race Relations at the University of Oxford African Studies Centre since 1997. Beinart research focuses on South Africa and the development of racism, highlighting the difficulty of reconciling antithetical memories.
Yasmin Kumi An MBA student at the SaĂŻd Business School, and President of the Oxford University Africa Society. Kumi research focuses on the development of business in West Africa since the 1960s.
Student Representative from Rhodes Must Fall in Oxford
Javier Espinoza Education Editor for The Daily Telegraph. Espinoza has covered the Rhodes Must Fall movement from its inception, and is a vocal advocate of the protection of free speech at all costs.
23
Oxford Union
2ND WEEK
D AV I D HASSELHOFF David Hasselhoff, aka 'The Hoff', is best known for his starring roles in the television series Knight Rider and Baywatch. With a prolific career spanning TV, music, business, film and, more recently, a social networking site and reality TV show (the aptly named Hoff the Record), Hasselhoff is one of the most recognisable celebrity brands in the world.
M O N D AY 2 5 J A N U A R Y | 8 . 0 0 p m
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Hilary 2016
2ND WEEK
DEBORAH MEADEN Best known for her appearances on the television shows Dragon’s Den and Strictly Come Dancing, Deborah Meaden is a highly successful English businesswoman with a reported £40m fortune. She started selling flowers at the age of 7 and, having left school at the age of 16, she has run a number of hugely successful businesses, ranging from leading market research companies to online valuation services.
W E D N E S D AY 2 7 J A N U A R Y | 8 . 0 0 p m
25
Oxford Union
2ND WEEK
HARRY REDKNAPP Having spent over 30 years as manager in the Premier League for teams including Bournemouth, Portsmouth and Southampton, it is fair to say that Redknapp is something of a footballing legend. His career began as a player for West Ham United, where he made over 140 appearances, but he is perhaps best known and admired for guiding Tottenham Hotspur to the last 16 of the UEFA Champions League following the 2009-2010 season.
T U E S D AY 2 6 J A N U A R Y | 8 . 0 0 p m
2ND WEEK
THORBJĂ˜RN JAGLAND
As the Secretary General of the Council of Europe, Jagland has overall responsibility for the strategic management of the Council of Europe’s work programme and budget. He is also the former Prime Minister and Minister of Foreign Affairs of Norway. Jagland frequently speaks in favour of Norwegian membership of the EU, and in 1990 published the book My European Dream. As Chairman of the Norwegian Nobel Committee, he successfully proposed the European Union be awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 2012. He is also outspoken on the protection of democratic liberties despite the need for greater security.
F R I D AY 2 9 J A N U A R Y | 8 . 0 0 p m
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Hilary 2016 3
RD
WEEK
JON RONSON
‘ S O Y O U ’ V E B E E N P U B L I C LY S H A M E D ’ Author of nine books including best-selling war parody, The Men who Stare at Goats (later a film starring George Clooney), Ronson has addressed some of the most interesting yet unvisited topics of our time. His work across film, radio, and television has touched on everything from the reliability of psychopathy testing to Robbie Williams's fascination with UFOs. Ronson's recent book, So You’ve Been Publicly Shamed, deals with online shaming; he has recently given a TED talk on this topic entitled How One Tweet Can Ruin Your Life.
S U N D AY 3 1 J A N U A R Y | 5 . 0 0 p m
3RD OR 4TH WEEK
GABRIELLE APLIN A celebrated English singer-songwriter who came to prominence for her cover of Frankie Goes To Hollywood's 'The Power of Love' which charted at Number 1 in 2012. Aplin has since released two albums, the most recent of which was Light Up the Dark in September 2015. Championed by BBC Music Introducing for her lyrical honesty and stripped-back sound, she has been hailed a refreshing young talent and a mainstay on the live music circuit.
T I M E A N D D AT E T B C
27
Oxford Union
WEEK TBC
SIR TIM RICE An Academy Award, Golden Globe, Tony, and Grammy winning lyricist responsible for some of the most iconic musical stage and film productions of all time, including Joseph and the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat, Evita and The Lion King. Sir Tim is best known for his collaborations with Andrew Lloyd-Webber which have become permanent fixtures on stages around the world and are loved by millions across the generations. He was knighted in 1994 for services to music and continues to be a vocal advocate of the power of the musical.
D AT E A N D T I M E T B C
28
Hilary 2016
3RD WEEK
IRINA B O K O VA
DIRECTOR-GENERAL OF UNESCO Director-General of UNESCO and frontrunner for UN Secretary-General, Bokova is active in her support of worldwide efforts to further gender equality, education and sustainability. A former Bulgarian politician, she would be the first Secretary-General if she were to be successful.
M O N D AY 1 F E B R U A R Y | 8 . 0 0 p m
29
Oxford Union
WEEK TBC
LAURENCE FOX A RADA trained actor turned musician, Fox is perhaps best known for his portrayal of DS James Hathaway in the ITV drama Lewis, which garnered huge popularity during its run of 9 series as a spinoff from Inspector Morse. Following the dramatic conclusion of the series in 2015, Laurence Fox has been focusing on a burgeoning career as a singersongwriter with the release of his debut album Holding Patterns scheduled for February.
T I M E A N D D AT E T B C
3RD WEEK
HSH PRINCE H A N S -A DA M I I The reigning Prince of Liechtenstein, he is the owner of LGT Banking Group. Since then he has pursued interests in philanthropy, business, and academia, owning a personal fortune of $7.6bn. In 2009, he published a political treatise on the importance of the nation state and democracy as the best form of government entitled The State in the Third Millenium. He is also a regular commentator on the role and responsibilities of royal families in modern politics.
F R I D AY 5 F E B R U A R Y | 8 . 0 0 p m
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Hilary 2016 4TH WEEK
LEN McCLUSKEY
JEREMY CORBYN: BLAST FROM THE PA S T O R L E A D E R O F TO M O R R OW ?
General Secretary of Unite since 2011. Described as the most powerful trade unionist in the country, McCluskey is an architect of the Union movement's 'victory' over New Labour despite having shifted his support in the Labour leadership race from Andy Burnham to Jeremy Corbyn. His relationship with Corbyn is one of restrained support; he has pledged support to the Party but nonetheless remains a vocal critic. He will talk on the subject of ideology, unity and progression within the political left.
T U E S D AY 9 F E B R U A R Y | 8 . 0 0 p m
4TH WEEK
M AR IN A A N D TH E D IA M ON DS Marina Diamandis, better known by her stage name, Marina and the Diamonds, has described herself as an “indie artist with pop goals”. Her distinctive style and original fusing of different musical elements point to her indie status, whilst the widespread success of her music suggests her pop goals have been met. Diamandis's music also deals with human behaviour and society. Her first chart-topping album, Electra Heart, explores female stereotypes in American culture; the songs are centered on personas such as ‘Primadonna’, ‘Housewife’ and ‘Homewrecker’. Diamandis's most recent album, Froot, achieved global commercial and critical success.
W E D N E S D AY 1 0 F E B R U A R Y | 8 . 0 0 p m
31
Oxford Union
4TH WEEK
J O N FAV R E A U LIFE AS OBAMA'S SPEECHWRITER
Described by President Obama as his ‘mind-reader’, Jon Favreau was hired as Obama's speechwriter shortly after his election to the US Senate in 2004, and subsequently appointed Director of Speechwriting following Obama's presidential election. Favreau was the chief writer of Obama's inauguration speech, resulting in TIME magazine naming him one of the '100 Most Influential People in the World'. Having left the White House in 2013, he is currently pursuing a career in screenwriting and private sector consulting.
S A T U R D AY 1 3 F E B R U A R Y | 6 . 0 0 p m
WEEK TBC
L O R D PAT T E N Before becoming Chancellor of the University of Oxford, Lord Patten served as Governor of Hong Kong and as the Chairman of the BBC Trust. He started his career in the Conservative Party, serving as a Member of Parliament for Bath and joining the Cabinet. As party chairman, he orchestrated the Conservatives' unexpected fourth consecutive electoral victory in 1992, but lost his own seat in the House of Commons. As Governor and Commanderin-chief, Patten presided over a steady rise in the living standards of Hong Kongers while encouraging a significant expansion of Hong Kong's social welfare system.
T I M E A N D D AT E T B C
32
Hilary 2016 5TH WEEK
TA R I Q ALI Tariq Ali is a writer, journalist, activist and filmmaker who first became politically active in his teens when opposing the military dictatorship of Pakistan. An ex-President of the Oxford Union, Ali has debated against Henry Kissinger over the Vietnam War and extensively criticised American and Israeli foreign policies. His work has led to him allegedly being the inspiration for songs by both the Rolling Stones and John Lennon.
M O N D AY 1 5 F E B R U A R Y | 8 . 0 0 p m
5TH WEEK
DA M E Z A H A HADID As the first woman to have won the Pritzker Architecture Prize and the RIBA Gold Medal, Dame Zaha Hadid is praised for the powerful nature of her architecture. She has also done high profile interior work including inside the Millennium Dome and has worked on fashion design with Lacoste. Her work has been displayed in several museums across the world and led to her being described as "a formidable and globally-influential force in architecture". She designed the ÂŁ11m Investcorp building at St Antony's College, Oxford.
T U E S D AY 1 6 F E B R U A R Y | 8 . 0 0 p m
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Oxford Union
5TH WEEK
ROBIN HOOD D E B AT E :
S H O U L D B I G TA X PAY E R S B E T R E AT E D A S T R E A S U R E D C U S T O M E R S O R C H E AT S ? A head to head clash about whether tax rates on the rich should be increased or decreased. Should the rich bear a greater burden in order to help those less fortunate than themselves? Should they instead be treated as treasured customers who create wealth in the economy? Or do they achieve their wealth primarily through the exploitation and cheating of others?
W E D N E S D AY 1 7 F E B R U A R Y | 8 . 0 0 p m SPEAKERS TBA
6TH WEEK
TH E PR IME M IN ISTER OF KOSOVO I S A M U S TA FA
Isa Mustafa has been Prime Minister of the Republic of Kosovo since 2014, having previously served as the mayor of the country's capital, Prishtina, and Minister for Economy and Finances of the Government of the Republic of Kosovo in Exile. As premier of Europe's youngest country, expect to hear about his vision for Kosovo's political and economic future, including its planned accession to the European Union.
M O N D AY 2 2 F E B R U A R Y | 8 . 0 0 p m
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Hilary 2016
5TH WEEK
L a B E O U F, R Ö N K K Ö & TURNER # E L E VAT E
F R I D AY 1 9 F E B R U A R Y | 8 . 0 0 p m
35
Oxford Union
6TH WEEK
J A N E T N A P O L I TA N O US Secretary of Homeland Security from 2009 until 2013, Janet Napolitano was named Forbes' ninth most powerful woman in the world in 2012. A lawyer by profession, she served as Governor of Arizona from 2003. until becoming Secretary of Homeland Security in 2009. As part of the Obama administration, she was a pioneer in the development of coordinating federal, state and local homeland security efforts as well as overseeing large-scale disaster relief projects. She is currently President of the University of California.
T U E S D AY 2 3 F E B R U A R Y | 1 2 . 0 0 p m
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Hilary 2016
6TH WEEK
BERTIE AHERN FORMER PRIME MINISTER OF IRELAND
Bertie Ahern is a former Irish politician who became Ireland’s youngest ever Head of Government (Taoiseach) in 1997, serving for over ten years. Before becoming leader of Fianna Fáil in 1994, Ahern held several significant positions within Irish politics including Minister for Finance, Minister for Labour and Lord Mayor of Dublin.
W E D N E S D AY 2 4 F E B R U A R Y | 5 . 0 0 p m
37
Oxford Union
6TH WEEK
DR JILL STEIN Becoming the most successful female presidential candidate in US history when she ran as the Green Party nominee in the 2012 general election, Dr Jill Stein is a graduate of Harvard Medical School. In 2015, she formally announced her intention to seek the Green Party's nomination once again for the 2016 presidential race. As a fierce advocate for environmental issues, she has outlined a 'Power to the People Plan' which includes a 'Green New Deal' and deep system reforms to areas such as healthcare, education and employment.
W E D N E S D AY 2 4 F E B R U A R Y | 8 . 0 0 p m
6TH WEEK
FRANCES DE LA TOUR A prolific star of stage and screen for over 50 years, de la Tour is well known for her roles in the Harry Potter films and The History Boys, as well as for her extensive career with the Royal Shakespeare Company. She came to widespread prominence through her role as Miss Ruth Jones in the television sitcom Rising Damp in the 1970s. She is also a Tony Award and three-time Olivier Award winner. Aside from acting, she is outspoken in her politics and support of socialism.
T H U R S D AY 2 5 F E B R U A R Y | 8 . 0 0 p m
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Hilary 2016
6TH WEEK
GLORIA STEINEM Gloria Steinem is a feminist, journalist, and activist who is internationally recognised as a leading light of America’s second wave. She achieved global acclaim with the publication of the article ‘After Black Power, Women’s Liberation’ in New York Magazine in 1969; it has since gone down in history as a seminal piece of feminist literature. She went on to found the ground-breaking feminist magazine, Ms., in 1972. Today, she is a prolific lecturer and spokeswoman and vocal in her attempts “to make women visible and powerful in the media”.
F R I D AY 2 6 F E B R U A R Y | 8 . 0 0 p m
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Oxford Union
7TH WEEK
P R O F E S S O R TA R I Q R A M A D A N a n d M A R YA M N A M A Z I E H E A D T O H E A D : I S L A M I N E U R O P E T O D AY Listed in a 2008 report called Victims of Intimidation: Freedom of Speech within Europe's Muslim Communities, Namazie has had multiple lectures no-platformed and disrupted. She is spokesperson for the Council of ex-Muslims and for Iranian Solidarity. Her writing specialises in challenging cultural relatavism and political Islam. Professor of contemporary Islamic Studies in Oxford, Tariq Ramadan has held positions in Universities across the world, he is also persona non grata in at least six countries including Saudi Arabia and Egypt for his challenges to undemocratic regimes. Namazie and Ramadan will be debating some of the biggest challenges facing Islam today.
M O N D AY 2 9 F E B R U A R Y | 8 . 0 0 p m
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Hilary 2016
7TH WEEK
ISRAELI AMBASSADOR TO THE UK MARK REGEV Having served the Israeli Foreign Ministry in Washington, Beijing, and Hong Kong, Mark Regev was appointed Israeli Ambassador to the United Kingdom in September 2015. Regev is best known for his role as Chief Spokesman for Israeli Prime Ministers Ehud Olmert and Binyamin Netanyahu, a position he held from 2007-2015. Regev is respected for responding to hostile media in a style that is both charming and combative.
T U E S D AY 1 M A R C H | 8 . 0 0 p m
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Oxford Union
7TH WEEK
E D W I N VA N D E R S A R Former Ajax, Juventus, Fulham and Manchester United footballer, van der Sar is considered, by critics and fellow players, as one of the greatest goalkeepers of all time. He is famous for his reflexes, presence inside the box and composure on the ball, has won over 50 individual and club awards, including two Champions League trophies and eight league titles. On four occasions, he was named Dutch Football Goalkeeper of the Year, and was twice named the Best European Goalkeeper by UEFA magazine. The most capped player in the Netherlands national team's history with 130 appearances, he currently works as marketing director at Ajax.
W E D N E S D AY 2 M A R C H | 5 . 0 0 p m
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Hilary 2016
7TH WEEK
MARK HAMILL Mark Hamill is best known for his portrayal of Luke Skywalker in the Star Wars trilogy, a role he reprised in 2015 in Star Wars: The Force Awakens. As part of the biggest film franchise of all time, he has developed a cult following over the years. In addition to his acting career, he is an award-winning voice actor and comic book writer, having voiced The Joker in various Batman video games and having written The Black Pearl miniseries in 1996.
W E D N E S D AY 2 M A R C H | 8 . 0 0 p m
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Oxford Union
8TH WEEK
MARY BERRY Mary Berry is an English cook, food writer, and television presenter who is famous for her role as a judge on the BAFTA award-winning show, The Great British Bake Off, the most watched show of 2015. Her career in food has spanned over 60 years, 70 cook books, and even her own line of salad dressings.
M O N D AY 7 M A R C H | 8 . 0 0 p m
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8TH WEEK
FORMER PRIME MINISTER OF PORTUGAL P E D R O PA S S O S C O E L H O
The first Portuguese Prime Minister to lead a coalition through a full term in office (between 2011 and 2015) since democracy was restored in 1974. Passos Coelho, who is credited with bringing his country in line with austerity measures, won the greatest number of votes in the parliamentary election but lost the parliamentary majority in October 2015. He became the Leader of the Opposition following this election.
W E D N E S D AY 9 M A R C H | 8 . 0 0 p m
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Oxford Union
8TH WEEK
MICHAEL LY N T O N As CEO of Sony Entertainment Inc. and Chairman and CEO of Sony Pictures Entertainment, Michael Lynton is responsible for overseeing all of Sony’s global entertainment businesses. Under his leadership the firm has received multiple Oscar nominations for films such as Captain Phillips and The Social Network, and he has overseen a number of blockbusters including the James Bond franchise. In 2013, he joined the board of Snapchat and, in the past, has worked for The Walt Disney Company and the Penguin Group.
T U E S D AY 8 M A R C H | 5 . 0 0 p m
8TH WEEK
BORIS BECKER A six-time tennis major singles' champion, Boris Becker is a former World No. 1. He won Wimbledon at the age of 17, making him the youngest man ever to have won the Championships. Becker took up the position as Novak Djokovic's head coach in 2014, leading the current World No. 1 to his second Wimbledon Championships.
W E D N E S D AY 9 M A R C H | 5 . 0 0 p m
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Hilary 2016
8TH WEEK TBC
B E R N A R D A R N A U LT Bernard Arnault is the Chairman and CEO of the world’s largest and most successful luxury goods conglomerate, LVMH, which controls brands such as Louis Vuitton, Fendi, TAG Heuer, Bulgari and Marc Jacobs. While growing LVMH’s portfolio of prestigious brands at a staggering pace, Arnault made notable investments in companies such as Netflix over ten years ago. In March 2015, Forbes estimated him to be the world’s thirteenth richest person.
D AT E A N D T I M E T B C
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Oxford Union
8TH WEEK
TOM ODELL Tom Odell is an English singer-songwriter. His debut album Long Way Down launched him into success and, having been named the BRIT Critics’ Choice Award winner, the album reached Number 1 in the UK Official Chart. His popularity grew further when his latest song was featured as the soundtrack to the 2014 John Lewis 'penguin' advert, and he was asked to support The Rolling Stones in their London shows. He will be performing.
T H U R S D AY 1 0 M A R C H | 8 . 0 0 p m
8TH WEEK TBC
K AT R I N A KAIF Katrina Kaif is one of the highest-paid actresses and models in Bollywood, best known for Ek Tha Tiger and Dhoom 3, two of the most successful Bollywood films of all time. Her modelling career has included work for Coca-Cola, LG and BlackBerry. Kaif is highly involved with her mother’s charitable trust, Relief Projects India, which strives to improve the rights of women and children in India.
8 TH W E E K T B C
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Hilary 2016
8TH WEEK
PRIME MINISTER OF BELGIUM CHARLES MICHEL
The incumbent Prime Minister of Belgium, having acceded to the office in October 2014. Michel is Belgium’s youngest Prime Minister in over 150 years, and only the second francophone Prime Minister in the country’s history. Michel is a representative of Mouvement Réformateur, the only French-speaking party in his government. His government has placed an emphasis on socio-economic reforms, particularly through austerity. A lawyer by profession, he was a member of the Brussels Bar prior to moving into politics.
T I M E A N D D AT E T B C
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Oxford Union
WEEK TBC
ANTONIS SAMARAS FORMER PRIME MINISTER OF GREECE Antonis Samaras is the former Prime Minister of Greece, holding office from 2012 until January 2015, when his New Democracy Party was defeated by the radical left-wing Syriza. Samaras has been widely praised for bringing about Greece’s first period of economic growth in 2014 following six years of recession, but resigned as leader of his party in July 2015 following the results of the Greek bailout referendum in which he and his party had backed the ‘Yes’ vote.
D AT E A N D T I M E T B C
50
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WEEK TBC
CHRIS M OY L E S A radio and television presenter best known for being BBC Radio 1's longest serving breakfast presenter, having hosted The Chris Moyles Show between 2004 and 2012. Moyles has also participated in several feats for charity, including breaking the Guinness World Record for the longest radio marathon on behalf of Comic Relief. His presenting style is renowned for its sharp wit and humour, and has won him legions of fans over the years.
D AT E A N D T I M E T B C
WEEK TBC
C R A I G D AV I D One of the most successful British singersongwriters in recent years, Craig David has revolutionised the music scene within the UK and beyond, and has had success over the course of the last decade with multiple BRIT and Grammy nominations to his name for albums from Born to Do It to Signed Sealed Delivered. With a musical repertoire ranging from garage to R&B and dance, David has enjoyed huge success with hit tracks such as 7 Days and the recent starring collaboration with Big Narstie on When the Bassline Drops.
D AT E A N D T I M E T B C
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Oxford Union
WEEK TBC
ALI BABACAN
FORMER DEPUTY PRIME MINISTER OF TURKEY
Deputy Prime Minister of Turkey from 2009 to 2015, Babacan was initially given the task of steering the Turkish economic reform in the early 2000s, negotiating multi-billion dollar IMF loans. He was appointed as the Chief Negotiator for the country's accession bid to the European Union, a position he pioneered for four years.
D AT E A N D T I M E T B C
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WEEK TBC
SIR JOHN HURT With an acting career spanning six decades, Sir John has appeared in some of the most prominent British films and TV series of all time. Since gaining prominence for his role in A Man For All Seasons, he has since appeared in V for Vendetta, The Elephant Man, Doctor Who, Midnight Express, and Tinker Tailor Soldier Spy to name just a few. His performances have led to him being awarded four BAFTAs and a Golden Globe, as well as having received two nominations for an Academy Award.
D AT E A N D T I M E T B C
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Oxford Union
WEEK TBC
LANCE ARMSTRONG Lance Armstrong is an American former professional road racing cyclist. Overcoming potentially fatal metastatic testicular cancer, he won the Tour de France seven consecutive times from 1999 to 2005, but was stripped of those victories in 2012 after a protracted doping scandal. In a 2013 interview, Armstrong confessed that some of the allegations were true, though he has declined to testify about the full extent of his drug use.
D AT E A N D T I M E T B C
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Hilary 2016
WEEK TBC
PRINCE BANDAR BIN SULTAN F O R M E R S A U D I A M B A S S A D O R T O T H E U N I T E D S TAT E S Having joined the Royal Saudi Air Force early in his career, he went on to serve as Saudi Arabia’s Ambassador to the United States from 1983 to 2005. Over thr ee decades, he was the face of the Saudi Arabia lobby and was nicknamed 'Bandar Bush' due to his close relationship with George H W Bush and George W Bush. Following his resignation, King Abdullah of Saudi Arabia appointed Bandar bin Sultan as SecretaryGeneral of the Saudi National Security Council, a position that he held until its abolition in January 2015. More recently, he heavily criticised the Iran nuclear deal, claiming that it "will wreak havoc in the Middle East which is already living in a disastrous environment".
D AT E A N D T I M E T B C
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Oxford Union
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SPECIALS
PUB QUIZZES
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OX FO R D A N D T H E C H O C O L AT E FA C T O R Y B A L L
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TOWN
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v
GOWN
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Oxford Union
PUB QUIZZES Bring along your friends as you head over to the Members' Bar for your regular fix of trivia. Brush up on your sports, pop culture, politics, and ancient history because, with ÂŁ100 cash prizes for the winners, champagne for the runners-up, and prizes for the winners of each individual round. It's guaranteed to make for a great night.
T U E S DAY 2 6 JA N UA RY ( 2 ND W EE K ) 9.00 p m T U E S DAY 9 F E B R UA RY ( 4 TH W E E K ) 9.00 p m T U E S DAY 1 M A R C H ( 7 TH W E E K ) 9.00 p m
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Hilary 2016
Our strategy
Our innovative nature
Our culture
Our people
Our global reach
What makes Dentons different? Let our trainees tell you. Dentons. Now the world’s largest global elite law firm.* Find out more at students.dentons.com
dentons.com Š 2016 Dentons. Dentons is a global legal practice providing client services worldwide through its member firms and affiliates. Please see dentons.com for Legal Notices. *Acritas Global Elite Law Firm Brand Index 2013-2015.
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12 February 2016 (Friday of 4th Week) 8.30pm ‘til late ∙ Black Tie Members: £49 Guests: £59
Contact Henna Dattani: secretary@oxford-union.org Tickets on sale online and in the Oxford Union General Office from 19 January 2016 (Tuesday of 1st week)
Oxford Union
T OW N V G OW N OUABC presents: Town v Gown 2016 Do OUABC’s pugilists have what it takes against the Town’s finest boxers? Tickets on sale in Elmer Cotton end of 1st Week Tickets on sale online at seetickets.com 62
W E D N E S D AY 3 F E B R U A R Y (3rd week)
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Oxford Union
INFO
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T R E A S U R E R ' S T R E AT S
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C O M P E T I T I V E D E B AT I N G
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HOW THE UNION WORKS
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H O W T O G E T I N V O LV E D
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THE LIBRARY
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THE MEMBERS' BAR
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T R E A S U R E R ' S T R E AT S Art Café 10% discount Ask 25% discount Sunday – Thursday La Croissanterie 20% discount Duke of Cambridge Happy Hour prices Sunday – Thursday Formosan Tea Bar 10% discount (excluding speciality teas) Fudge Kitchen 5 slices for £16 and 7 slices for £22 Heroes Spend £5 and get free cake; look out for weekly Union promos on the blackboard! The House Happy Hour prices Sunday – Thursday Makan La 10% discount Maxwell’s 20% discount food Modern Art Oxford Shop 10% discount Modern Art Oxford Café 10% discount Moo-Moo’s 10% discount Nosebag 10% discount Oxford Sandwich Company 5% discount Raoul’s 30% discount between 4.00pm and 8.00pm Shanghai 30’s 25% discount eat-in; 15% discount take-away Sofi de France 15% discount for >£3.50 spend; 20% discount for >£20 spend Tick Tock Café 10% discount The Varsity Club £2 entry on Tuesday Vaults & Garden Café 10% discount on everything before 12 and after 2pm, 20% discount on late hot food after 2.30pm Monday – Friday NEW ADDITIONS: All Bar One Happy Cakes The Handlebar iScream Gelato Nectar Paul Pieminister Queen's Lane Coffee House Queen's Lane Deli Ricardo’s
20% discount on spends over £20 15% discount 30p discount on coffee after 6.00pm Monday – Saturday 2 bottles of house wine for £22 Monday – Wednesday 10% discount 10% discount 10% discount 10% discount 10% discount 10% discount 10% discount before 11.30am
More to be announced soon! Please contact Noah Lachs at treasurer@oxford-union.org for more information.
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Oxford Union
COMPETITIVE D E B AT I N G While the Oxford Union is famous for its speaker meetings and Thursday evening debates, it still stays true to its roots, maintaining a strong competitive debating tradition. We pride ourselves on training anyone who is interested in the art of debating – regardless of whether you want to debate competitively, or just improve your public speaking skills. When it comes to competitive debating, we are among the best in the world. This year, Oxford reached the semi-finals of the European Universities Debating Championships. We further saw all six members of our delegation at the World Universities Debating Championship rank in the top 50 speakers globally and progress from the preliminary rounds
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to the elimination rounds (a feat only matched by one other university this year). Competitive debating at Oxford also has an incredibly fun and inclusive atmosphere for members of any experience level or none. We send debaters and judges to competitions all over the country at no expense, with a novice quota for almost every tournament. This term we will be sending teams to competitions in London, Manchester, Durham, Dublin and the Hague among others, as well as running two internals, the Richard O’Sullivan Memorial Competition and the Fresher of the Year Competition, to find the best debaters in Oxford. Competitive debating goes beyond just
Hilary 2016
sending Union teams to competitions; it also encompasses a vast amount of training, access work for schools that might benefit from the skills involved in debating, and hosting our own debating competitions for speakers from around the world.
helping out with the development of schools debating throughout this country and others.
Our training sessions begin each Sunday at 7.30pm. After a short talk, there will be a round of practice debates, before heading to the pub at 9.30pm. We have designed our training programme so people can start learning to debate at any point throughout the year, so anyone should feel free to attend.
All debating announcements are sent out as part of a weekly debating announcements email. You can subscribe to this by sending a blank email from your Nexus account to debate-announce-subscribe@maillist.ox.ac.uk. If you have a specific question, please email cdsc@oxford-union.org, and Toby Tricks, our Chair of the Debate Selection Committee, will be able to help you.
This term the Oxford Schools Debating Competition will also be taking place, and we will be sending members across the country (and globe) to judge regional rounds before the prestigious Finals Day held in the Union on Saturday of 8th Week. This is a fun way for all members to develop judging experience, while also
Regardless of your debating experience, if you put lots into the Union you are guaranteed to get lots out!
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Oxford Union
HOW THE UNION WORKS Standing Committee Chair – Stuart Webber, President The Union’s governing body, which makes all major decisions concerning the running of the Society and oversees the work of all committees. Mondays, 4.00pm, President’s Office Finance Committee Chair – Stuart Webber, President Responsible for scrutinising termly, annual, and event budgets, reporting its findings to the Standing Committee. Mondays, 3.00pm, President’s Office
Debate Selection Committee Chair – Toby Tricks, CDSC Responsible for organising internal competitions and selecting members to represent the Union at external debating competitions. Sundays, 5.00pm, Gladstone Room
Consultative Committee Chair – Will Barnes, CCC A chance for members to question Officers and hear updates on upcoming events. Mondays, 1.15pm, Gladstone Room
Access Committee Chairs – Dorkina Myrick, Romil Depala Responsible for the promotion of wider participation in, and engagement with, the Society. Ad Hoc
Library Committee Chair – Niamh Coote, Librarian Responsible for choosing new library books and DVDs, and for all other aspects of the Library's management. Mondays, 2.15pm, Morris Room
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Wines and Spirits Committee Chair – Henna Dattani, Secretary Responsible for choosing and managing the Bar's stocks, setting its prices, and composing the budget. Ad Hoc (twice termly)
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HOW TO G E T I N V O LV E D If you are interested in getting involved with the Oxford Union, there are a number of ways to do so. Participate in Debates Debates usually take place on Thursday evenings, and are held in the Chamber (doors open at 7.30pm). They cover a range of subjects and are a great opportunity to challenge speakers, as well as voice your opinions on topical issues. You can participate by giving a floor speech in the main debate before the final speakers, or in the Emergency Debate (starting at 7.45pm) preceding the main debate. For those interested in honing their debating skills, debating workshops are held in the Union every Sunday at 7.30pm.
Run for Election All Officers and committee members are elected by you – the members – on Friday of 7th Week. Aspiring committee members are required to make a number of speeches, depending on the position for which they are running. Nomination packs can be picked up in the General Office from mid-5th Week. The deadline for nominations is Friday of 6th Week. For more information, contact the Returning Officer at ro@oxford-union.org. Attend Open Sessions or Committees Got a burning question to ask the President? Want to see how decisions in the Union are made? The President will be holding an open session from 2.00pm every Monday in the President’s Office during which anyone can ask questions about the Union. All committees on p. 68 are also open for members to attend and observe.
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Oxford Union
THE LIBRARY
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The Oxford Union has one of the largest lending libraries in the University and, unlike college libraries, boasts an extensive collection of fiction and travel books. Most of our collection is catalogued on SOLO. The Library also has most of your daily newspapers, subscribes to a number of magazines, and has an impressive collection of DVDs.
daily. Our suggestions book can be found in the Old Library.
The Old Library is adorned with some of the world’s most famous Pre-Raphaelite murals, painted by artists including William Morris and Dante Gabriel Rossetti. The adjoining Poetry Room is a true hidden gem, while the beautiful Goodman Library is open until 11.00pm
Old Library term time opening hours: Mon – Fri: 9.30am until 7.00pm Sat: 12.00pm until 4.30pm
If you’re interested in getting involved in the running of the Library, contact Niamh Coote at librarian@oxford‑union.org about joining the Library Committee, which meets at 2.15pm every Monday during term.
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THE MEMBERS' BAR Few places in Central Oxford are classy and affordable – the Members' Bar is both. Perfect for a quiet coffee, a light lunch, or an evening drink, you can enjoy high quality food and beverages at student prices with a 25% members' only discount. Our lunchtime menu has recently been updated, boasting a delicious selection of homemade options. Refurbished this summer, and much like a hall of fame, the Members' Bar is decorated with memorabilia from past guests. You never know who you might meet there, and current speakers often share a drink with members when
addressing the Union. A place to meet friends and celebrities, the Members' Bar is truly unique. This term, we will be hosting 3 pub quizzes on Tuesday of 2nd week, Tuesday of 4th week, and Tuesday of 7th week. With a £100 cash prize for the winners, a bottle of champagne for the runners-up, and prizes for the winners of each round, these promise to be great evenings. Term time opening hours: Mon – Wed: 10.00am until midnight Thurs – Sat: 10.00am until 2.00am Sun: 12.00pm until 10.30pm
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Oxford Union
THE OXFORD UNION COMMITTEE
President Stuart Webber Somerville
President-Elect Robert Harris New College
Librarian Niamh Coote Pembroke
Treasurer Noah Lachs Lincoln
Secretary Henna Dattani Brasenose
Librarian-Elect Ssuuna Golooba-Mutebi St John’s
Treasurer-Elect Nikolay Koshikov Exeter
CCC Will Barnes Hertford
S TA N D I N G C O M M I T T E E
Ellen Milligan St Catharine’s
Jaskaran Rajput Christ Church
Ed Grigg New College
Fran Varley Somerville
Tycho Onnasch St Edmund Hall
S E C R E TA R Y ’ S C O M M I T T E E
Stephan Jensen Lincoln
Maan Al-Yasiri Brasenose
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Lizzie Watson St Catherine's
Ira Banerjee Lincoln
Henry Kitchen Exeter
Eva O'Sullivan Pembroke
Dom Hopkins-Powell New College
Alice Eva St John's
Rupert Stonehill Magdalen
Emily Dillistone Rio Hoe Worcester Harris Manchester
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APPOINTEES Chief of Staff Returning Officer Press Officer Access Officers Women's Officer LGBTQIA+ Officer Ethnic Minorities Officer Disabilities Officer Graduate Officer Brookes Officers International Officer Development Officer Logistics Team Invitation Researchers
Sponsorship Committee Guest Liaison Officers
Advisor to the President SBS Liaison Officer
Alfie Shaw Peter Corden Jack Lennard Dorkina Myrick; Romil Depala Mia Smith George Graves Olaoluwa Ayeko Brahma Mohanty Michelle Hufschmid Tom Rayner; Harry Chisholm Amrita Dasgupta Jonathan Tan Ryan Tang; Calum Neil; Sam Billington Miles Overton; James Olney; Emily Tench; James Cox; Curtis Crowley; Tess Hulton; Harrison Edmonds; Hannah Mooradian; Samah Lakha; Apichet Sarnath; Dov Boonin; Alexander Curtis; Hugo Birtle Toby Williams; Callum Tipple; Ed Maclean; Toby Williams Dillon Lancaster; Aurelia Vandamme; Emma Richards; John Hutton; Henry Robertson; Mely Wu; Christian Zabilowicz; Laura Fritsch; Alex Urwin; Davina Forth; Owen Rapaport; Jay Fields; Natasah Fairweather; Owen Mears Ambesh Tiwari Matthew McGrath
S TA F F Senior Librarian Senior Treasurer Bursar Librarian-In-Charge House Manager Events Manager Accounts Manager Office Secretary IT Officer Graphic Designer
Sean Power Stephen Dixon Lindsey Warne Su Lockley Bridget Gaughan Nikki Wood Robert Philips Eleanor Taylor Jeremy Worth Craig Slade, www.craigslade.com
TRUSTEES Hon. Peter Jay Dr Jeremy Catto Sean Power Stephen Dixon
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Oxford Union
HOW TO BRING A GUEST At all speaker events for which the speaker has requested a drinks reception, spaces will be reserved for members. These spaces will also be allocated by random ballot similarly advertised by email and on Facebook. Members are able to bring guests to an event, as long as they fulfil the following three criteria. 1. The guest is not themselves eligible for membership of the Oxford Union 2. The guest pays a ÂŁ10 fee on the door 3. There are fewer members who want to attend the event than we have capacity Events will be made exclusive to members when there is a security risk. Given (3) above, the likelihood that there will be space for guests at an extremely popular event is low.
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H O W T O S T AY I N F O R M E D
f T Y /theoxfordunion
@oxfordunion
oxfordunion
@theoxfordunion
oxford-union.org
Receive Notifications about our Events: • Sign up to our mailing list by entering your email address on our web site's homepage. • On our Facebook page, click 'Like' and then select 'Get Notifications' from the drop-down menu. All of our events will be advertised on Facebook. Oversubscribed Events: • In response to member’s concerns last term we are undergoing a consultation process to work out alternative solutions to the queuing process. These will be announced in due course and in time for our most high-profile events. • We will update the Facebook event for each oversubscribed event as often as we can with as much information as possible about current queue size etc. Meeting Speakers: • At every debate, there will be 5 spaces reserved for dinner before and drinks afterwards. • These spaces will be allocated by random ballot, a link to which will be advertised by email and on Facebook.
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THE OXFORD UNION SUMMARY OF AUDITED ACCOUNTS SUMMARY OF INCOME & EXPENDITURE for year ended 30 June 2015 2014-2015 Actual
2013-2014 Actual
2014-2015 Budget
INCOME Subscriptions Gen Activities Library Income Bank Intrst Rec'd Standing Committee Income Function Income Bar income (Inc Food)
646,169 65,765 7,576 717 84,743 229,653 100,926
57,475 8,850 150 180,749 300,000 117,000
1,135,549
EXPENDITURE Administration Trading Items Establishment Expenses Library Expenditure Bank Charges & Exchange Depreciation, sale of assets Standing Committee Expenditure Functions Expenditure Bar Expenditure (Inc Food)
292,004 694 165,498 133,788 10,489 3,975 259,951 121,764 74,921
OLDUT account Transfer to designated funds
684,895 64,969 8,244 363 126,675 304,083 98,337
598,899
1,287,566
1,263,123
231,496 824 318,913 122,713 10,971 610 239,342 167,700 72,297
251,765 1,200 320,007 128,141 11,940 500 340,607 153,341 112,197
1,063,084
1,319,698
1,164,866
-8,452 -32,773
-1,900 60,000
-6,376 -88,007
31,240
1,525
28,317
SURPLUS FOR YEAR before taxation
Taxation
15,448
Net Surplus after Taxation Accumulated Deficit b/f Accumulated surplus carried forward
20,193
15,792
8,124
-24,606
-32,730
-8,814
-24,606
BALANCE SHEET as at 30 June 2015 2014-2015 F'hold Prprty & Tngbl Assets Current Assets Current Liabilities
Net Assets
2013-2014
186,230 712,716 230,052
164,832 764,625 309,128
482,664
455,497
668,894
620,329
162,000 -8,814 515,708
162,000 -24,606 482,935
668,894
620,329
Financed by: Revaluation Reserve Accumulated Surplus Designated Funds Total (Subject to tax changes)
The full statement of the audited accounts will be available for Members' inspection in the General Office, by arrangement
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Events Subject to Change Without Notice Speaker
0th
6th 7th 8th
Tue
Wed
17 David Hasselhoff 8.00pm
24 Jon Ronson 5.00pm
25
Harry Redknapp 8.00pm Pub Quiz 9.00pm
7 Tariq Ali 8.00pm
21
22 Islam in Europe Head to Head 8.00pm
28
29 Mary Berry 8.00pm
6 Laurence Fox Gabrielle Aplin Lord Patten
Janet Napolitano 12.00pm
Bertie Ahern 5.00pm
ISIS 8.30pm
Dr Jill Stein 8.00pm
1
Michael Lynton 5.00pm
7
22
23
8 Bernard Arnault Charles Michel Sir Tim Rice
Obama Administration 8.30pm
Boris Becker 5.00pm Former Prime Minister of Portugal 8.00pm 9
Tom Odell 8.00pm
2
Antonis Samaras Katrina Kaif Craig David
Jon Favreau 6.00pm
12
13
19
20
25
26
27
3
4
5
LaBeouf, Rönkkö and Turner 8.00pm
Frances de la Tour 8.00pm
Edwin van der Sar 5.00pm Mark Hamill 8.00pm
6
Oxford and the Chocolate Factory Ball | 8.30pm
18
24
30
5
11
17
16
23
Nuclear Weapons 8.30pm
Strikes 8.30pm
Robin Hood Head to Head | 8.00pm
Ambassador Mark Regev | 8.00pm Pub Quiz 9.00pm
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29
4
10
9
Dame Zaha Hadid 8.00pm
The Prime Minister of Kosovo | 8.00pm
Dates to be confirmed
Marina and the Diamonds | 8.00pm
15
15
Prince Hans-Adam II 8.00pm
3
2 Len McCluskey 8.00pm Pub Quiz 9.00pm
Sat
Thorbjørn Jagland 8:00pm
28 China 8.30pm
Town v Gown
8
14
Positive Discrimination | 8.30pm
27
26
1
21
20 Deborah Meaden 8.00pm
Irina Bokova 8.00pm
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Other
Holocaust Denial Criminalisation | 8.30pm
19
18
Fri
14
13
12
11
Social Event
Thu
Must Rhodes Fall? 8.00pm
2nd
5th
Mon
10
1st
4th
TERM PLANNER
Debate
Sun
3rd
£5
Gloria Steinem 8.00pm
Oxford Schools Final Day
10 Chris Moyles Ali Babacan Sir John Hurt
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11 Lance Armstrong Bernard Arnault Prince Bandar bin Sultan
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