Oxford Union Hilary Term 2019 Termcard

Oxford THE

Union HILARY TERM 2019

HILARY 2019

Daniel Wilkinson President As we enter into the New Year, there is a responsibility to reflect upon the events of the past whilst acknowledging the possibilities for the future. Presidents have often used this introduction to eulogise the achievements of the Union’s illustrious history, but I would prefer to take a moment to re-examine our foundations and affirm the path the Union is following.

This term we have tried to address some of the gravest challenges that our generation faces, and find a path towards resolution through pragmatic, yet optimistic dialogue. I hope that, in amongst the influential speakers, debates, and panels of the term, you will each find something that appeals to your interests, your concerns, or your aspirations about our world as it stands.

Too often we misremember and glorify the story of our foundation. The Union was not founded by influential people at the height of their intellectual and political prowess; it was established by a handful of students, like you or me, trying to ignite a conversation about an intolerant University and an oppressive religious orthodoxy. It is telling that nearly two-hundred years after this initial episode, we are still having the same conversations in a wider sphere. We are still resisting the calls to “no platform�, and still trying to shine a light on the clandestine practices of religious authority. In that vein, it is now more crucial than ever to ensure that the Union captures the zeitgeist, and that we empower students to stand-up and question the injustices around us. From discussions with the victims of the Grenfell tragedy to the founders of March for Our Lives, we will continue opening up this conversation, while finding new ways to illuminate the darkest transgressions of our time.

Alongside these discussions, my aim this Hilary is to take a step to modernise and reform the Union. With the release of the Oxford Union app, the reforms to the accessibility and transparency of our committees, and the welcoming of Plush into our Cellars, I trust that our members will recognise that their voices are being heard.

I sincerely hope you will take the opportunity to immerse yourself in the unique platform that the Oxford Union provides. Become a participant, not just an observer; you may be surprised by the new conversations you will have, and the progress that we can begin to make together.

Daniel Wilkinson President, Hilary 2019 Oriel College

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THE OXFORD UNION

Brendan McGrath Librarian

I will never forget my first memory at the Oxford Union, attending Terrence Howard’s lecture, surrounded by the crimson walls that still retained the echoes of Jesse Jackson, Nancy Pelosi, and Shashi Tharoor. The event epitomised why the Union is so special; it’s a place where a story can be told, and an idea can be shared, human to human.

I’m incredibly proud of our fantastic committee for putting together a set of events that do just this.

Whether being pushed to stand up by the leaders of March for our Lives, invited to reflect by the #MeToo debate, or challenged to argue by Beppe Grillo, I hope you are able to find something to remember this Hilary.

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Amy Gregg Treasurer

Welcome back to Oxford! I hope you had a fantastic vacation and are looking forward to the term ahead.

The sponsorship team and I have been hard at work over the break, renewing existing partnerships and establishing new ones, to ensure the Union’s finances remain in good shape following our successful membership drive. In particular, we are delighted to announce a new partnership with Schwarzman Scholars this term, and continued collaboration with MyTutor and SPG Law.

As your Librarian, in addition to hosting some of these potent events, I’ll also (ironically!) be the custodian of the beautiful Library, so please do not hesitate to reach out if you have any suggestions that would enrich this historic facility.

Our roster of Treasurer’s Treats continues to expand, with sixteen new and improved discounts. A full list can be found at the back of the termcard and on our new app. Hilary will also see the return of debate floor prizes on a larger scale than ever before, with four prizes on offer each night. Make a speech from the floor during the main or emergency debates to be in with a chance of taking home prizes ranging from ball tickets, to champagne dinners, to cookery classes.

Whether our events are able to inspire agency, or merely widen your outlook slightly, we welcome you all to be part of the conversation this term.

Working together to create this termcard has been the highlight of my time at Oxford, especially doing so with my best friends. In the office or not, this is your term.

Finally, a summary of the accounts is included in the back of the termcard, and any interested member is welcome to attend our weekly meetings of Finance Committee to find out more. If you have any questions about the Union or its finances, please don’t hesitate to get in touch, and I look forward to seeing you at the Union this term!

Brendan McGrath Oriel College librarian@oxford-union.org

Amy Gregg Somerville College treasurer@oxford-union.org

HILARY 2019

Nicholas Leah Secretary

A very happy New Year! I trust you all had a pleasant and restful Christmas vacation.

DEBATES 4

The Oxford Union is a unique institution, offering unparalleled opportunities to hear from and engage with eminent guest speakers. However, it is, above all, a society, and our socials are one of the best ways to get the most out of your membership. I hope that this termcard is indicative of our desire to organise a set of socials that offer something for everyone.

SPECIAL EVENTS 24

From perennial favourites like competitive pub quizzes in the Members’ Bar and an evening of dancing in celebration of Burns Night, to exciting additions like the Union’s first-ever Murder Mystery Night and the inaugural Graduate Symposium, this term is to be enjoyed by regular social-goers and new members alike. And of course, the pièce de résistance. I proudly present the Hilary Term 2019 Ball: Into the Wardrobe. On the 8th February - in keeping with the weather - the Union will transform into C. S. Lewis’s wintry world of Narnia. Tickets are expected to sell out quickly, so be ready when they are released on Friday of 2nd week at 13:00.

SOCIALS 68

SPEAKERS 30

INFO 74

It has been a privilege working with the committee to put together this term’s social calendar, and a truly enjoyable way to conclude my four terms of involvement with this incredible society.

Nicholas Leah Lincoln College secretary@oxford-union.org

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THE OXFORD UNION

DEBATES

The Oxford Union was established to protect and uphold the principle of free speech, and debate remains at the heart of the society today. Debates are held on Thursday evenings during term, with timings as follows: 19:45 – Emergency Debate: Featuring only student speakers, our Emergency Debates seek to address topical issues, and therefore motions are set weekly.

Check our Facebook page for the motion of the week.

20:30 – Main Debate: Featuring high-profile speakers from around the world, our Main Debates address pressing questions on a variety of topics. Details can be found on the pages that follow.

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In the Main Debate, points of information can be offered to guests during their speeches and time is reserved for members to give floor speeches before the final speaker on each side. There are exciting prizes for the best floor speakers in the Emergency and Main debates each week.

A ballot will be released each week via email and on our Facebook page for members to attend the pre-debate dinner with our guest speakers.

DEBATES

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HILARY 2019

1. This House Believes The Arab World Has Failed The Palestinian People

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2. This House Would Embrace An Ever Closer African Union

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3. This House Cannot Separate The Art From The Artist

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4. This House Believes Thatcher Was A Hero For The Working Class

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5. This House Believes That All You Need Is Love

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6. This House Believes The Left Must Reclaim Populism

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7. This House Believes The Catholic Church Can Never Pay For Its Sins

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8. Brexit Debate

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This House Believes The Arab World Has Failed The Palestinian People 6

DEBATES

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HILARY 2019

THURSDAY 17TH JANUARY | 20:30

PROPOSITION

Arab support for a Palestinian state has long been assumed. However, the denial of citizenship to 4.6 million exiled Palestinians, combined with greater Israeli-Arab collaboration, has led some to question their commitment. Are these incidents isolated, or symptomatic of an Arab world that has failed the people of Palestine?

Mudar Zahran

Palestinian-Jordanian Secretary General of the Jordanian Opposition Coalition. He has advocated for Jordan to be the Palestinian state.

Colonel Richard Kemp CBE

Retired British Army officer who commanded British forces in Iraq, Afghanistan, Northern Ireland, and the Balkans. He testified before the United Nations on the Gaza War.

Dr. Ghada Karmi

Palestian doctor, journalist, and academic at the University of Exeter. A vocal critic of Israel, she fled Jerusalem with her family in 1948.

OPPOSITION

Lowkey

British-Iraqi rapper and activist known for his politically charged music, including Long Live Palestine. He is a Patron of the Palestine Solidarity Campaign.

Kito de Boer

Former Dutch diplomat, he served as Head of Mission of the Quartet from 2015 to 2017, an international organisation which mediates between Israelis and Palestinians.

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This House Would Embrace An Ever Closer African Union 8

DEBATES

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HILARY 2019

THURSDAY 24TH JANUARY | 20:30

PROPOSITION

The African Union is the world’s largest and most ambitious example of regional integration. However, it now finds itself in the geopolitical maelstrom of growing Chinese influence and a burgeoning American presence. Does Africa need an ever closer Union, or should it look to the wider world?

Amelia Kyambadde

Member of the Ugandan Parliament and Cabinet Minister of Trade, Industry, and Cooperatives. She was previously the Principle Private Secretary to the President of Uganda.

Omali Yeshitela

Founder of the Uhuru Movement, an African Internationalist organisation which claims the only way for Africans to achieve liberation is to struggle for an all-African socialist government.

Dr. Reuben Brigety

American diplomat who previously served as the United States Ambassador to the African Union and Permanent Representative to the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa.

Prof. Arthur Mutambara

Deputy Prime Minister of Zimbabwe from 2009 to 2013, he is currently president of the opposition party, Movement for Democratic Change.

OPPOSITION

Cellou Dalein Diallo

Prime Minister of Guinea from 2004 to 2006, he is currently President of the opposition party, Union of Democratic Forces of Guinea.

Carine Kaneza Nantulya

Africa Advocacy Director within the Africa Division at Human Rights Watch, an international NGO that conducts research and advocacy on human rights.

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This House Cannot Separate The Art From The Artist 10

DEBATES

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HILARY 2019

THURSDAY 31ST JANUARY | 20:30

PROPOSITION

Art has traditionally been appreciated as independent of its creator. However, in the wake of the #MeToo movement, an additional moral standard against which society judges art has developed. As the separation of art and artist is called into question, should we still value the art of morally tarnished artists?

Rose McGowan

American activist, actress, author, and model who publicly accused Hollywood producer Harvey Weinstein of rape. She was recognised in TIME magazine for her contribution to the #MeToo movement.

Rachel Krengel

Intersectional feminist, socialist, and trade unionist. She organised the 2017 Women’s March in London, and campaigns widely for LGBTQIA+ and women’s rights.

Oshrat Kotler

Israeli journalist and television news presenter, she sparked Israel’s #MeToo movement after speaking out on live TV about sexual misconduct.

Parul Sehgal

Literary critic at The New York Times, she received the 2010 National Book Critics Circle Award for Excellence in Reviewing.

She was previously books editor at NPR.

OPPOSITION

Dr. Zoe Strimpel

Writer, commentator, and journalist with the Sunday Telegraph, she has criticised #MeToo as intellectually lazy “hashtag feminism”.

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This House Believes Thatcher Was A Hero For The Working Class 12

DEBATES

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HILARY 2019

THURSDAY 7TH FEBRUARY | 20:30

PROPOSITION

For better or worse, Margaret Thatcher undoubtedly transformed the lives of the British working class. She ruthlessly stared down the miners’ strike, but her Right to Buy scheme made home ownership possible for many, and she herself was the daughter of a greengrocer. Forty years since her first election victory, how should we view Thatcher’s impact on the working class?

Lord Michael Howard

Leader of the Conservative Party from 2003 to 2005, he held multiple Cabinet positions under Thatcher. Upon her death, he praised Thatcher for taking on the unions and “saving our country”.

Edwina Currie

Former Conservative MP who served as Parliamentary UnderSecretary of State for Health under Thatcher and admired her for having the “roots...of ordinary people”.

Jack Dromey MP

Shadow Minister for Work and Pensions and former Deputy General Secretary of the Transport and General Workers’ Union.

OPPOSITION

Peter Tatchell

British human rights campaigner, he has denounced Thatcher for her anti-LGBTQIA+ policies and her “divisive and destructive” political agenda.

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This House Believes That All You Need Is Love 14

DEBATES

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HILARY 2019

THURSDAY 14TH FEBRUARY | 20:30

PROPOSITION

This Valentine’s Day, love is in the air and no one wants to be left without a date. But when house prices are high, employment rates are low, ice caps are melting, and sudden death lurks around every corner, you have to wonder - is love really all you need?

Jamie MacDonald

Self-proclaimed “funny blind guy”, he is preparing for the 2019 tour of his critically acclaimed show Designated Driver.

Jen Brister

Writer and performer of five global solo shows, she has appeared on Live at the Apollo and The Comedy Store.

Tom Ward

Comedian and voice-over artist, he frequents the BBC, the Fringe, and The Comedy Store.

Hal Cruttenden

Stand-up who has frequently appeared on Mock the Week, Live At The Apollo and Have I Got News for You.

Tom Lucy

Winner of The Sun Best New Comedian 2017 and one of the youngest professional comedians in the world.

OPPOSITION

Loyiso Gola

Anchor of Emmy-nominated satirical news show Late Nite News with Loyiso Gola.

Desiree Burch

2015 Funny Women Stage Award-winner, she has appeared on Frankie Boyle’s American Autopsy and 8 Out of 10 Cats.

Ahir Shah

Nominated for the 2017 Edinburgh Comedy Award, he recently made his debut on Live at the Apollo.

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This House Believes The Left Must Reclaim Populism 16

DEBATES

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HILARY 2019

THURSDAY 21ST FEBRUARY | 20:30

PROPOSITION

‘Populist’ is a term used to smear the nationalist, authoritarian Right. But today, social democratic parties, preoccupied with technocratic government, fail to engage with the real grievances of their traditional voters. As politicians from Bernie Sanders to Jeremy Corbyn surge in popularity but fall short of power, does the Left need to learn from the populist Right?

Jeff Weaver

Campaign manager for the 2016 Presidential campaign of US Senator Bernie Sanders, and Chief of Staff in his Congressional Office.

Paul Mason

British commentator and radio personality, he has written extensively on the direction of left politics. He is the author of PostCapitalism: A Guide to Our Future.

Brandon Davis

Campaign Manager for Florida’s Democratic candidate for Governor, Tallahassee Mayor Andrew Gillum. He was previously the DNC’s Chief of Staff.

Lord Adonis

Labour Party politician, academic, and journalist who served in the New Labour Government for five years. He is a key proponent of a second referendum on Britain’s departure from the EU.

OPPOSITION

George Papandreou

Prime Minister of Greece from 2009 to 2011, he is the current President of Socialist International. As Prime Minister, he oversaw Greece’s reaction to the Financial Crisis.

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This House Believes The Catholic Church Can Never Pay For Its Sins 18

DEBATES

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HILARY 2019

THURSDAY 28TH FEBRUARY | 20:30

PROPOSITION

The Catholic Church has overseen decades of physical violence, neglect, and sexual abuse. As the institution attempts to atone for this record, its efforts have included the funding of healthcare, housing, and counselling for survivors. But given the gravity of its abuses, can any measures ever be enough?

Mitchell Garabedian

Lawyer who represented sexual abuse victims in Boston during the Catholic priest sexual abuse scandal. He was portrayed by Stanley Tucci in the movie Spotlight.

Elizabeth Coppin

Confined in three Magdalene laundries from the age of 15, she is now bringing a case against the Irish state to the United Nations Committee against Torture.

Thomas Reilly

Former Massachusetts Attorney General, he led the investigation into the clergy sexual abuse scandal in Boston. He is a former candidate for Governor of Massachusetts.

Dr. Jay R. Feierman

Former psychiatric consultant to the clerical sexual offender treatment programme in Jemez Springs, New Mexico.

He is a prolific writer on religion.

OPPOSITION

Marci Hamilton

CEO and Academic Director at CHILD USA, an interdisciplinary think tank that works to prevent child abuse and neglect. She is a former clerk for Supreme Court Justice Sandra Day O’Connor.

In partnership with SPG Law 19

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Brexit Debate 20

DEBATES

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HILARY 2019

THURSDAY 7TH MARCH | 20:30 The 29th of March, 2019 will be the most significant date in the United Kingdom’s peacetime history. The United Kingdom has leapt into a precarious position, and the future remains uncertain. The European question has defined British politics for decades and its recent answer has sent a shock through the Western world. The Oxford Union has always had a special relationship with momentous events in British history; this debate is an important episode in that relationship.

The debate is not without precedent. On the 3rd of June, 1975, the Union voted overwhelmingly to “Say Yes To Europe” - two days before the referendum that reaffirmed the United Kingdom’s membership of the EEC. Edward Heath and Jeremy Thorpe proposed the motion with Barbara Castle and Peter Shore opposing. Forty years later, two weeks before Britain voted to leave the European Union, the same chamber voted decisively to remain.

This debate will be held three weeks before the United Kingdom is scheduled to leave the European Union. Every respective generation has been forced to define its relationship with Europe in its own way. This March, as the country stands at a cross-roads, the Oxford Union will hold a debate on the question facing Britain as it approaches a future after the European Union.

SPEAKERS TO BE ANNOUNCED

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THE OXFORD UNION

D E B AT E F LO O R P R I Z E S

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EMERGENCY DEBATE PRIZE

MAIN DEBATE THIRD PRIZE

Turtle Bay Three-course meal for two plus cocktails

Jericho Kitchen Cookery School Two cookery classes

White Rabbit Pizzas for four with beer or wine

Victors Three course meal for two with prosecco

Jericho Kitchen Cookery School Cookery class

Bella Italia £100 voucher

Turtle Bay Two-course meal for two plus £50 voucher

Mamma Mia Summertown Three course meal for two with bottle of wine

Odeon Five Silver Guest Passes

Shoryu Three course meal for two with drinks

Hanks Pizza and drinks for two plus a bottle of Moët

Cherwell Boat House Three course meal for two with wine

No emergency debate due to officer hustings

Victoria Arms Two course meal for two with wine

Dirty Bones Three course meal for two with cocktails

Mamma Mia Jericho Three course meal for two with bottle of wine

DEBATE FLOOR PRIZES

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HILARY 2019

Every Main Debate First and Second Prize winners will also take home an exclusive Ede & Ravenscroft wool scarf.

MAIN DEBATE SECOND PRIZE

MAIN DEBATE FIRST PRIZE

Cinnamon Kitchen Sharing menu for two with bottle of wine

Victors Three course meal for two with prosecco

Macdonald Randolph Hotel Three-course meal for two with champagne

Kellogg Ball Two tickets

The Perch Three course meal for two with bottle of wine

Cinnamon Kitchen Sharing menu for two with a bottle of wine

Victors Three course meal for two with prosecco

Old Bank Hotel Luxury overnight stay

No. 1 Ship Street Three course meal for two with bottle of champagne

TM Lewin Two-piece suit

Gee’s Three course meal for two with bottle of wine

Burrows & Hare £150 voucher

TM Lewin Working week of shirts or blouses Cinnamon Kitchen Sharing menu for two with bottle of wine

Macdonald Randolph Hotel Three-course meal for two with champagne

Quod Three course meal for two with bottle of wine

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THE OXFORD UNION

SPECIAL EVENTS

The Union strives to platform the most interesting and important conversations. From Malcolm X’s argument for extremism in defence of liberty, to stories told by the “Mothers of the Movement” during our recent panel on Black Lives Matter, we are committed to discussions of significance, from voices not often heard.

In this tradition, we are extremely proud to be hosting these special events. From the leaders of the March for our Lives movement, to the voices of the Grenfell Tower tragedy, this term we welcome those aggrieved by injustice, struck by tragedy, and with their eyes firmly set on the future.

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AI PANEL Artificial Intelligence: An Inhuman Future?

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MARCH FOR OUR LIVES PANEL Gun Violence and Youth Activism in America

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GRENFELL PANEL Voices of Grenfell

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PRESS PANEL The Future of the Media in a Post-Truth Age

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INTERVENTION HEAD TO HEAD

Humanitarian Intervention: A Contradiction In Terms? 29

S P SE PC EI AC LI AELV E VN ET N S TS |

THE OXFORD UNION

| H I LHAI RL AY R2Y0 21 09 1 9

MONDAY 28TH JANUARY | 20:00

AI PANEL

Artificial Intelligence: An Inhuman Future?

In this dynamic new technological age, Artificial Intelligence and Big Data are impacting our lives in unprecedented ways. Siri can anticipate our commands, Facebook leverages analytics for targeted electoral advertising, and Google Maps applies complex data sets to plan routes for autonomous drivers.

While these developments are regarded by some as an opportunity to achieve a more comfortable and efficient future, others voice strong concerns about the threats Artificial Intelligence and the rise of Big Data pose to humanity and morality. How will these new and developing technologies shape the future of humanity? Will they create the conditions for a higher quality of life? Or do we face a bleak future of rising unemployment, a loss of privacy, and a more divided society?

Kenneth Cukier

Senior editor at the Economist and co-author of Big Data: A Revolution that Will Transform How We Live, Work, and Think.

Dr. Catherine Havasi

Scientist who runs MIT’s natural language AI program “ConceptNet”, and is CEO of “Luminoso”.

Dr. Tshilidzi Marwala

Artificial Intelligence specialist who has written more than eleven books and 280 papers on the subject.

Prof. Sir Adrian Smith

Director of the Alan Turing Institute who previously served as President of the Royal Statistical Society.

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SPECIAL EVENTS

THE OXFORD UNION

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HILARY 2019

SATURDAY 23RD FEBRUARY | 19:00

MARCH FOR OUR LIVES PANEL

Gun Violence and Youth Activism in America The US has one of the highest rates of gun violence in the developed world. Students around the country have taken a stand against this, starting the #NeverAgain movement in the wake of the mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School, and streets all across the United States have been flooded with students demanding a set of powerful new reforms.

Despite a political culture in which the right to gun ownership is entrenched, certain gun control measures have been implemented at both the state and federal level. After years of violence, it therefore seems the student-led movement has provided some hope that positive change in the US is on the way. In this panel, we bring together the leaders of the March for Our Lives movement to reflect on this youth movement in the US, as well as on the potential for young people across the world to create change in politics and society.

David Hogg

Edna Chavez

March for Our Lives coMarch for Our Lives founder and survivor of activist and survivor of the Stoneman Douglas the Stoneman Douglas High School shooting in High School shooting in Parkland, Florida.

Parkland, Florida.

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Bria Smith

March for Our Lives activist who organised a county-wide school walkout in Milwaukee Wisconsin.

Alex King

March for Our Lives activist who lost his 16-year old nephew to gun violence in Chicago.

SPECIAL EVENTS

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HILARY 2019

WEDNESDAY 27TH FEBRUARY | 17:00

GRENFELL PANEL

Voices of Grenfell Over a year since the Grenfell Tower fire, many survivors continue to live in temporary accommodation.

The destruction of the tower and its aftermath have shown that safety comes at a certain price, making the social divide between those who can afford to pay this price and those who cannot more apparent than ever. In particular, the fire has revealed the urgency of its survivors having a greater voice and stronger representation.

The Grenfell Tower Inquiry was launched the day after the tragedy but has been critiqued for failing to adequetely address the concerns of the aggrieved.

This event brings together survivors of the Grenfell fire whose stories have drawn attention to the need for a wider restorative effort to rebuild their lives. The speakers will be survivors of the tragedy, alongside Sam Stein QC, the barrister representing residents in the Grenfell Tower Inquiry.

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FRIDAY 1ST MARCH | 20:00

PRESS PANEL

The Future of the Media in a Post-Truth Age Information is now more accessible than ever, yet there is no guarantee of accuracy. Public trust in the media is at an all-time low, with the rise of “fake news” and “post-truth politics” making fact-based journalism an increasingly challenging endeavour. As the importance of personality over policy continues to grow in politics, some argue political journalism has little more to offer than its tabloid cousin.

In light of the above, we ask, what is the future for the media and how can it retain its relevance in this changing social and political climate? Is traditional media losing its relevance in a post-truth age? And is the diligence and journalistic integrity of the mainstream media being overlooked in favour of clickbait, sensationalised stories?

Jon Snow

Longest-running presenter of Channel 4 news.

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Emily Maitlis

Presenter of BBC Two’s Newsnight.

Robert Guest

Foreign Editor of The Economist.

SPECIAL EVENTS

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HILARY 2019

6TH WEEK | TIME TBC

INTERVENTION HEAD TO HEAD

Humanitarian Intervention: A Contradiction In Terms?

Global inaction has been criticised for exacerbating humanitarian crises, with the atrocities committed in Rwanda continuing to weigh on the conscience of the international community. However, in light of recent failures in foreign intervention, including Iraq and Libya, the West has had a crisis of confidence in its ability to meet its “Responsibility to Protect”.

From the persecution of the Rohingya in Myanmar, to the man-made famine in war-torn Yemen, to Assad’s re-consolidation of power in Syria, the international community faces a reckoning with what it means to pursue humanitarian aims in foreign policy. Faced with these dilemmas, should intervention continue to be seen as the appropriate solution for humanitarian crises? Or are the long-term results produced worse than the consequences of inaction?

John Rees (Proposition)

British political activist, national officer of the Stop the War Coalition, and founding member of Counterfire.

Ryan Crocker (Opposition)

Former US ambassador to Lebanon, Kuwait, Syria, Pakistan, Iraq and Afghanistan and recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom.

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THE OXFORD UNION

SPEAKERS

Each term, we aim to bring to the Union a plethora of unique and influential speakers. We hope that there will be something for everyone in a term that brings together pioneers and leaders in almost every field.

The committee will be working hard throughout the term to add new speakers to this line-up - check the website, Facebook page, or the new Oxford Union app for the most up to date list of events. Make sure to look for our Facebook events, where you can find the ballot to join the meet and greets with the speakers.

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Please note that one of the challenges inherent in hosting high calibre speakers is that their schedules can change at short notice. In the rare situation in which this occurs, we will do everything we can to rearrange the event for a different date, and ensure that members are given adequate notice of changes or cancellations.

SPEAKERS

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HILARY 2019

WEEK 1

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WEEK 2

36

WEEK 3

38

WEEK 4

42

WEEK 5

48

WEEK 6

52

WEEK 7

58

WEEK 8

62

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WEEK 0

THURSDAY 10TH JANUARY | 20:00

Nick Offerman Actor and Comedian One of the most widely celebrated, award-winning actors and comedians of his generation, Nick Offerman is best known for his exemplary portrayal of the cold, staunchly libertarian Ron Swanson in Parks and Recreation. He has received popular and critical acclaim for his work in stand up comedy through American Ham as well as roles in The Founder, FX, and most recently the reality TV show Making It. 32

SPEAKERS

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HILARY 2019

WEEK 1

MONDAY 14TH JANUARY | 20:00

Beppe Grillo Co-Founder of Italian Five Star Movement Beppe Grillo is one of the most prominent figures in the Italian political scene, having co-founded the populist Five Star Movement, now Italy’s largest party. He began his journey as a political commentator and satirist in 1980s, when criticism of the Italian national government forced him into effective exile from television. However, his influence did not waver, and Grillo is now one of the most widely read bloggers in the world.

WEEK 1

TUESDAY 15TH JANUARY | 17:00

President Marie-Louise Preca President of Malta Marie-Louise Coleiro Preca is the ninth President of Malta. She previously served as the General Secretary of the Labour Party, and was the only woman to have served in senior positions of a Maltese political party. The focus of her Presidency has been on improving social inclusion, and she is known in particular for establishing The President’s Foundation for the Wellbeing of Society.

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WEEK 1

WEDNESDAY 16TH JANUARY | 17:00

Tony Hawk American Skateboarder The first in his field to have ever landed a 900, Tony Hawk is a professional skateboarder, actor, entrepreneur and philanthropist. He is a pioneer in extreme sport, with his show touring across 31 cities of the USA. His Tony Hawk Foundation has funded over 500 skatepark projects in deprived areas of the USA, and aims to bring about social change through the sport.

WEEK 1

WEDNESDAY 16TH JANUARY | 20:00

Kurupt FM

Comedy Group from People Just Do Nothing

Kurupt FM is a comedy group whose roots lie in the BAFTA-winning BBC sitcom People Just Do Nothing, which follows the lives of MC Grindah and DJ Beats, the founders of a pirate radio station in West London. Since the conclusion of the show in 2018, they have since performed across the country, on platforms such as the Glastonbury, Leeds and Reading Festivals.

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SPEAKERS

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HILARY 2019

WEEK 1

FRIDAY 18TH JANUARY | 17:00

Mahathir Bin Mohamad Prime Minister of Malaysia The 93-year-old Malaysian Prime Minister, Mahathir Bin Mohamad, has a wealth of experience in the political world. Having previously held the post from 1981-2003, and being re-elected in 2018, he has held the position longer than anyone else. Under him, Malaysia saw rapid modernization and economic growth, but strained relations with the West.

WEEK 1

FRIDAY 18TH JANUARY | 20:00

Eoin Colfer

Author of Artemis Fowl Eoin Colfer is known best for authoring the science fiction fantasy series Artemis Fowl, which awaits its film release this year. His career began as a primary school teacher in Wexford, Ireland, and this eventually took him across Saudi Arabia, Tunisia, and Italy, inspiring his very first book, Benny and Omar.

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THE OXFORD UNION

WEEK 2

MONDAY 21ST JANUARY | 17:00

Will Poulter English Actor Since winning the BAFTA Rising Star award for his part in the blockbuster hit We’re the Millers, Will Poulter has continued to star in films including The Revenant and War Machine. More recently, his role in Black Mirror: Bandersnatch caught worldwide attention.

WEEK 2

TUESDAY 22ND JANUARY | 17:00

Marion Maréchal French Political Figure Marion Maréchal was elected to France’s National Assembly in 2012 at the age of 22. The granddaughter of party founder Jean-Marie Le Pen, she has been tipped as a future leader of the Front National. She currently works in education, and is the director of the Institute of Social, Economic and Political Science, a school for a new generation of French conservatives.

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WEEK 2

WEDNESDAY 23RD JANUARY | 17:00

Bobi Wine Ugandan Political Activist A Ugandan social activist and MP, Bobi Wine was arrested for his vocal criticism of the Ugandan government. Since his release, Wine continues his work on transparency and freedom of speech in Ugandan politics, as well as increased sanitation and healthcare. He is a renowned musician, and has recorded over 70 songs, with his 2016 song Kiwanican featuring in Disney’s Queen of Katwe.

WEEK 2

THURSDAY 24TH JANUARY | 17:00

Dr. Husam Zomlot Palestinian Ambassador to the UK Ambassador Husam Zomlot is the Head of the Palestinian Mission to the UK. Born in a refugee camp in the Gaza Strip, he previously served as the Palestinian Envoy to the US before the closure of the PLO Office in Washington DC instigated by President Trump in 2018. Ambassador Zomlot has since advocated that Britain spearhead the peace process in the Middle East, and act as a leader in global diplomacy.

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WEEK 3

TUESDAY 29TH JANUARY | 20:00

Harry Shearer Simpsons Voice Actor For over twenty years, Harry Shearer has been the voice of Mr Burns, Ned Flanders, and many other characters on The Simpsons.

He began his career as a child actor in the 1953 film Abbott and Costello Go To Mars.

He has since worked as a writer and actor on NBC’s Saturday Night Live, and co-created the 1984 comedy musical Spinal Tap. He has also worked in radio, hosting the satirical news commentary entitled Le Show, amongst other projects.

WEEK 3

WEDNESDAY 30TH JANUARY | 17:00

Pres. Guðni Jóhannesson President of Iceland The sixth and current President of Iceland, Guðni Jóhannesson is Iceland’s youngest president. A historian by qualification, he specialised in modern Icelandic history, and was a docent at the University of Iceland until his election in 2016. During his Presidency, he has had to oversee the formation of a coalition government, and in December 2016, Guðni had unprecedentedly high approval ratings of 97%.

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WEEK 3

WEDNESDAY 30 JANUARY | 20:00 TH

Scouting for Girls English Pop Rock Band Scouting For Girls are one of the most successful English pop-rock bands of their time. Formed in 2005, their debut album September has sold over one million copies in the UK, and has received global praise and recognition. Winners of multiple BRIT awards, the band have raised money for charities such as Wellchild, Children In Need and the Alzheimer’s Association.

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WEEK 3

THURSDAY 31ST JANUARY | 17:00

Jim Acosta CNN Journalist Taking on the White House Jim Acosta is the chief White House Correspondent for CNN. His White House press credentials were revoked in November, sparking national criticism and a legal battle.

One of America’s leading journalists, Acosta’s career has taken him across the world, from covering the 2004 Presidential campaign of John Kerry to the Iraq War in Baghdad.

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HILARY 2019

WEEK 3

FRIDAY 1ST FEBRUARY | 17:00

Professor A.C. Grayling Philosopher and Author One of Britain’s leading philosophers, Professor A. C. Grayling founded the New College of the Humanities in London in 2011. His work focuses on epistemology, metaphysics, and, most pertinently, their practical applications.

Additionally, he has written extensively on religion, war, and public policy.

WEEK 3

FRIDAY 1ST FEBRUARY | 20:00

Kodaline Irish Rock Band Founded by school friends Steve Garrigan and Mark Prendergast in 2005, Kodaline is a leading Irish rock band. They rose to prominence with their 2013 album In a Perfect World, comprising singles, such as All I Want and High Hopes. Their latest album, Politics of Living, was released in 2018 and has received widespread critical and commercial acclaim.

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WEEK 4

MONDAY 4TH FEBRUARY | 17:00

Laura Mvula

British Recording Artist Following her debut album in 2014, Laura Mvula has remained one of the most exciting figures in British soul music. She quickly followed up with a second album in 2016 that garnered widespread critical acclaim. Along with introducing a distinctive style, Mvula has brought jazz and soul to a younger audience.

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SPEAKERS

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HILARY 2019

WEEK 4

MONDAY 4 FEBRUARY | 20:00 TH

Roberto Cavalli

Italian Fashion Designer Roberto Cavalli is one of the best known names in Italian and global fashion, and is known for his exotic prints, perfumes and high-end accessories. Cavalli’s career launched in the 1970s with his pioneering invention of a new printing technique on leather, which was picked up by leading fashion houses such as Hermes and Pierre Cardin. He opened his first boutique in 1972, and now leads one of the world’s leading high-end, luxury fashion brands.

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WEEK 4

TUESDAY 5TH FEBRUARY | 17:00

Jean-Claude Trichet President of the ECB during Financial Crisis Jean-Claude Trichet was President of the European Central Bank from 2003 to 2011, during which he oversaw the Eurozone’s handling of the Great Recession and European debt crisis in the aftermath of the 2008 financial collapse. Before joining the ECB, Trichet was Governor of the Banque de France for over a decade. He now heads Bruegel, a leading European think tank focused on economic policy.

WEEK 4

TUESDAY 5 FEBRUARY | 20:00 TH

Dame Diana Rigg Olenna Tyrell in Game of Thrones Dame Diana Rigg is a celebrated actress, who has recently portrayed Lady Olenna in Game of Thrones, a role which earned her four Emmy nominations.

Her illustrious career has spanned both stage and screen, with her West End and Broadway appearances including awardwinning lead roles in Medea, Mother Courage, and My Fair Lady.

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WEEK 4

WEDNESDAY 6 FEBRUARY | 17:00 TH

Kathy Griffin American Comedian and Actress A two-time Emmy and Grammy award-winner, Kathy Griffin is an American stand-up comedian, writer, producer, actor, and television host. She was widely recognised for her supporting role on the NBC sitcom, Suddenly Susan. Aside from her comedy career, she is an LGBTQIA+ activist involved in causes such as same-sex marriage and the repeal of “Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell”.

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WEEK 4

WEDNESDAY 6TH FEBRUARY | 20:00

Daniel Brühl German-Spanish Actor Having started his career aged 16, Brühl has gone on to star in Inglorious Bastards, The Bourne Ultimatum, and Rush. The German-Spanish actor was nominated for a Golden Globe, shortlisted for GQ’s Man of the Year, and recently made his debut in the Marvel Cinematic Universe as Helmut Zemo in Captain America: Civil War.

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SPEAKERS

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HILARY 2019

WEEK 4

THURSDAY 7 FEBRUARY | 17:00 TH

Boris Becker

Former World Tennis No. 1 A former world No. 1, Boris Becker is a retired German tennis player whose accolades include six Grand Slam victories and an Olympic gold medal. The youngest person to ever win Wimbledon, at age 17, Becker went on to establish himself as one of the greatest tennis players of his generation. In retirement, Becker coached Novak Djokovic to six Grand Slam titles, and now oversees men’s tennis for the German Tennis Federation.

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WEEK 5

MONDAY 11TH FEBRUARY | 17:00

Susan Herman President of the ACLU

Susan Herman is a scholar of American constitutional law, social activist, and has been President of the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU) since 2008. She has written extensively on the issues of criminal and constitutional law, and was given the Roy C. Palmer Civil Liberties Prize in 2012. She has also acted as associate director of Prisoners’ Legal Services of New York.

WEEK 5

TUESDAY 12TH FEBRUARY | 17:00

Brian Lara Legendary Cricketer Brian Lara, a former Trinidadian international cricketer, is often regarded as one of the best ever batsmen to grace the cricket field. He holds the record for the highest individual score and the only quintuple century in first-class cricket. “The Prince”, as he is known to fans, holds many honours due to his cricketing feats, and is an inspiration to all sports players.

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SPEAKERS

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HILARY 2019

WEEK 5

TUESDAY 12 FEBRUARY | 20:00 TH

Dr. Don McGahn Former Counsel to President Trump Former White House Counsel for President Donald Trump, Don McGahn is a recent departure from Trump’s administration. Previously serving as a Republican-selected member of the Federal Election Commission, he helped loosen regulations on campaign spending. In the presidential campaign, he managed all litigation, but resigned after an alleged improper prosecution request from President Trump.

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WEEK 5

WEDNESDAY 13TH FEBRUARY | 17:00

Dr. Joanne Liu President of Médicins Sans Frontières Dr. Joanne Liu is the current International President of Médicins Sans Frontières (Doctors Without Borders), an international NGO dedicated to providing professional medical assistance in conflict and emergency zones worldwide. A trained pediatrician, Liu has worked in the field for MSF since 1996. As MSF President, she coordinated MSF’s response to the Ebola epidemic in West Africa.

WEEK 5

WEDNESDAY 13TH FEBRUARY | 20:00

Eliza Doolittle Singer and Songwriter Eliza Caird is most recognisable by her original stage name Eliza Doolittle; the singer-songwriter has achieved platinum status with her eponymous debut album and contributing vocals to house duo Disclosure’s chart-topping single You & Me. Eliza’s most recent record, A Real Romantic, was released in December 2018, with a European tour planned for early 2019.

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SPEAKERS

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WEEK 5

FRIDAY 15 FEBRUARY | 17:00 TH

Shahid Khaqan Abbasi

Former Prime Minister of Pakistan Shahid Khaqan Abbasi served as Prime Minister of Pakistan from August 2017 to May 2018, and is a senior member of the country’s centre-right Pakistan Muslim League (Nawaz). During his short yet busy term, Abbasi announced a tax reforms package, created seven new Ministries, including the Ministry of Energy and aimed to tackle the deep rooted financial issues of the Pakistani power sector.

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WEEK 6

TUESDAY 19TH FEBRUARY | 17:00

Hugh Bonneville Iconic British Actor Bonneville is an actor best known for his starring role as Lord Grantham in Downton Abbey, which earned him widespread critical acclaim and numerous awards. Beginning his career with the National Theatre and Royal Shakespeare Company, he has countless television and film appearances to his name, with recent credits including the BAFTA-winning comedy series Twenty Twelve and the hit Paddington films.

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WEEK 6

WEDNESDAY 20TH FEBRUARY | 17:00

Evan McMullin Independent 2016 Presidential Candidate McMullin is a former CIA operative who, in 2016, ran in the American presidential election as an independent conservative alternative to Republican candidate Donald Trump. McMullin garnered over 21% of votes in his home state of Utah, and amassed national support from critics of Trump. In 2017, McMullin founded Stand Up Republic, a nonpartisan organisation dedicated to upholding democratic ideals in America.

WEEK 6

WEDNESDAY 20TH FEBRUARY | 20:00

Sonam Kapoor Bollywood Star One of the film industry’s highest-paid actresses, Sonam Kapoor is a hugely successful Bollywood actress. She is the recipient of a Filmfare Award and a National Film Award for the biographical thriller Neerja, one of the highest-grossing Hindi films with a female protagonist. She has also been vocal on breast cancer awareness and LGBTQIA+ rights, and is a keen philanthropist.

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WEEK 6

THURSDAY 21ST FEBRUARY | 17:00

Greg James BBC Radio 1 Host Host of Radio 1 Breakfast, Greg James is an English radio DJ, television presenter, and author. He co-presents the primetime BBC One music show Sounds Like Friday Night, and his children’s book series, Kid Normal, was the biggest selling children’s debut of the year, with international release. His “Gregathlon” for Sport Relief helped raise over £1 million.

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WEEK 6

FRIDAY 22 FEBRUARY | 17:00 ND

Ed Mezvinsky & Jonathan Yarowsky High Crimes and Misdemeanours: Impeachment in the Years of Nixon and Trump As allegations of criminality embroil the Trump White House, some progressive members of Congress call for the President’s impeachment. Are these demands merely political showmanship, or do they rest on solid legal ground? Joining us to discuss this and other questions in the context of the Nixon, Clinton, and Trump administrations are Rep. Edward Mezvinsky and Jonathan Yarowsky.

Mezvinsky, a former US Representative, was a key member of the House Judiciary Committee during the impeachment proceedings against President Nixon. Yarowsky was General Counsel to the Committee, and later Special Counsel to President Clinton.

WEEK 6

FRIDAY 22ND FEBRUARY | 20:00

Deontay Wilder Heavyweight Boxer Deontay Wilder is an American professional boxer who has held the WBC heavyweight title since 2015. Nicknamed “The Bronze Bomber”, Wilder won the bronze medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics. Never losing a fight, Wilder has a knockout-to-win ratio of 98 percent. Wilder’s draw against Tyson Fury in December 2018 was the first time he failed to win a fight outright.

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SPEAKERS

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WEEK 6 | TBC

Ada Hegerberg Inaugural Winner of Women’s Ballon d’Or Winner of the inaugural Women’s Ballon d’Or, Ada Hegerberg is a professional Norwegian footballer. She plays as a striker for the Division 1 Féminine club Olympique Lyonnais, for which she has appeared 95 times and scored 120 times. In 2016 she was named UEFA Best Women’s Player in Europe Award, and in 2017 was named BBC Women’s Footballer of the Year.

WEEK 6 | TBC

Frank Turner Singer and Songwriter A successful singer-songwriter, has performed at Glastonbury, and set a record for performing at his tenth consecutive Reading Festival in 2015. From folk to alternative rock, he has turned his hand, and voice, to many genres of music. Starting first as the vocalist for post-hardcore band Million Dead, he later went solo, going on to release an impressive seven solo albums.

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WEEK 7

MONDAY 25TH FEBRUARY | 17:00

Congressman Delaney First Democratic 2020 Presidential Candidate The first Democrat to announce their campaign for the Presidency in 2020, John Delaney served as the United States Representative for Maryland’s sixth congressional district from 2013 to 2019.

His time in the House was spent promoting bipartisan initiatives. Coming from a working-class background, Delaney went on to co-found and publicly list two companies before the age of 40.

WEEK 7

TUESDAY 26TH FEBRUARY | 17:00

Ella Mills Deliciously Ella Better known as Deliciously Ella, British food writer and entrepreneur Ella Mills found success in her food blog. Going on to write a book under this iconic name, she has since published four more cookbooks, and has opened several delis in London alongside her husband and business partner.

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SPEAKERS

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WEEK 7

TUESDAY 26TH FEBRUARY | 20:00

Ruth Hunt Chief Executive of Stonewall Ruth Hunt is the Chief Executive of Stonewall, the largest LGBTQIA+ rights organisation in the UK. Since her appointment in 2014, Hunt has overseen Stonewall’s transition to campaign for transgender rights for the first time, along with the focused expansion of Stonewall’s network throughout the UK and worldwide. The Independent previously named Hunt the third most influential LGBTQIA+ figure in Britain.

WEEK 7

WEDNESDAY 27TH FEBRUARY | 20:00

Tim Harford OUMS Presents: Economist and Author Author of the book and Financial Times column The Undercover Economist, Tim Harford is one of the best known contemporary economists.

Having spoken at TED, PopTech and the Sydney Opera House, Harford has played an instrumental role in making economics accessible to the general public. He also presented the BBC’s Trust me, I’m an Economist on television and More or Less on BBC Radio 4.

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WEEK 7

THURSDAY 28TH FEBRUARY | 17:00

Lord Alan Sugar Business Tycoon

Lord Alan Sugar is most famous for his popular TV show The Apprentice. Growing up on a council estate, the self-made billionaire has found huge success as a businessman. He now serves as an apolitical Enterprise Champion to the UK government since 2009. Formerly a Labour supporter, Lord Sugar has been a vocal critic of Corbyn, even threatening to leave the country if Corbyn is elected.

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SPEAKERS

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HILARY 2019

WEEK 7 | TBC

Jayne Atkinson-Gill and Michael Gill American Actors

A true power couple in US television, Jayne Atkinson-Gill and Michel Gill are most recognizable for their roles in House of Cards, as Secretary of State Durant and President Walker, respectively. Atkinson is also known for the role of Karen Hayes on 24, as well as her Tony Award-nominated roles in The Rainmaker and Enchanted April.

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WEEK 8

MONDAY 4TH MARCH | 17:00

Claude Littner

British Business Executive A business executive and former chairman of Viglen, Powerleague, and ASCO, as well as being the former chief executive of Tottenham Hotspur, Claude Littner’s business acumen is known nationwide. He has become a household name, known as the hard-nosed and direct interviewer, and now aide to Lord Sugar, on the BBC show The Apprentice.

WEEK 8

MONDAY 4TH MARCH | 20:00

Simon Pegg Iconic British Actor and Comedian Since the 2004 smash hit Shaun of the Dead, Simon Pegg’s career has hit new heights with almost every film. Hot Fuzz has become a cult classic of comedic genius, and his work as Scotty in Star Trek has endeared him to a new set of fans. His more recent work includes the critically acclaimed Ready Player One and Mission Impossible.

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WEEK 8

TUESDAY 5 MARCH | 17:00 TH

Stacey Abrams Progressive Georgia Governor Candidate After serving eleven years in Georgia’s House of Representatives, Abrams became the first black woman gubernatorial nominee for a major party in the United States. She advocated issues such as Medicaid expansion, reproductive rights, and responsible gun safety measures. Abrams attracted national attention for her progressive positions in a traditionally red state, and she spoke out against statewide voter suppression.

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WEEK 8

WEDNESDAY 6TH MARCH | 17:00

Theo Paphitis

Dragon’s Den Entrepreneur Theo Paphitis is an English-Cypriot retail magnate and entrepreneur famous for his time on BBC show Dragon’s Den. He is the owner of stationary chain Rymans, and sold lingerie brand La Senza for a reported £100 million. This leaves his estimated worth as £286 million, making him the 406th richest person in Britain as of the 2017 Sunday Times rich list.

WEEK 8

WEDNESDAY 6TH MARCH | 20:00

Kwame Kwei-Armah OBE

Artistic Director of the Young Vic

Now the Artistic Director of the Young Vic, Kwame Kwei-Armah was the second black Briton to stage a play in the West End, with his awardwinning piece Elmina’s Kitchen at the Garrick Theatre in 2005. As an actor, he has featured in Casualty and Holby City. He was awarded an OBE in 2012 for services to drama.

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SPEAKERS

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HILARY 2019

WEEK 8

THURSDAY 7TH MARCH | 17:00

Malcolm Turnbull Former Prime Minister of Australia Malcolm Turnbull served as Australia’s 29th Prime Minister from 2015 to 2018, having started in politics as Chair of the Republican Movement.

During his administration, he was best known for overseeing the legalisation of same sex marriage in Australia, and for taking in Central American asylum seekers, following a deal with the USA.

WEEK 8

FRIDAY 8TH MARCH | 17:00

Kristin Chenoweth Actor and Singer American actress and singer, Kristin Chenoweth, has had huge success on the screen and stage. Having won a Tony Award in 1999, she later was noted for originating the role of Glinda in the hit Broadway musical Wicked, for which she received another Tony nomination. Since then, her appearance in Pushing Daisies has won her an Emmy, and she starred in ABC’s GCB in 2012.

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HEAD TO HEAD WITH MEHDI HASAN Al Jazeera English’s Flagship Interview and Discussion Show Hosted by the award-winning journalist Mehdi Hasan, Al Jazeera English’s flagship interview show Head to Head will return to the Oxford Union for three more television show recordings in February 2019. Each show features high-profile guests, expert panellists, and a Q&A with the Oxford Union audience. Tickets will be available free of charge through Eventbrite.

Follow @AJHeadtoHead on Twitter and Facebook for updates.

Sunday 3rd February @ 19:30 Guest: Dipu Moni, Minister of Education of Bangladesh and former Minister of Foreign Affairs 2009-2013 Sunday 17th February @ 19:30 Guest: TBA Monday 18th February @ 19:30 Guest: Erik Prince, founder of the private security firm, Blackwater.

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HILARY 2019

THOSE WHO WILL LEAD THE FUTURE must

understand china today schwar zmanscholars .org

UPCOMING EVENTS AT THE UNIVERSITY OF OXFORD INTERNATIONAL CAREERS FAIR SAT 19 JANUARY 11:00AM - 3:00PM BLAVATNIK SCHOOL OF GOVERNMENT

INFORMATION SESSION WED 23 JANUARY, 2:00PM - 4:00PM OXFORD UNION GOODMAN LIBRARY 6 7

THE OXFORD UNION

SOCIALS

Aside from our eminent speakers, the Union is renowned for being Oxford’s social hub. This term is packed with exciting socials, and we have decided to put a little twist on the traditional. From the extraordinary Into the Wardrobe Ball, to our first ever Murder Mystery Night and Burn’s Night celebration, there is something for everyone this Hilary.

Tickets for our events will be available on the FIXR app.

Otherwise, pop into our Members’ Bar for a casual drink or to take part in one of our notorious pub quizzes.

For any more information, please contact the Secretary, Nicholas Leah, at secretary@oxford-union.org.

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Burns Night Social

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Into The Wardrobe Ball

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Murder Mystery Night

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SOCIAL Ceilidh band Scottish dancing Whiskey tasting

Wednesday 23rd January 2019 (2nd week) 20:00 Dress Code: Black Tie / Highland Dress Members: £20. Guests: £25

Tickets available through the FIXR app from 13:00 Monday 14th January 2019 (1st Week) 69

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T H E

O X F O R D

Friday 8th February 2019 (4th Week)

20:30 until late - Dress Code: Black Tie Members: £65. Guests: £75 Contact Nicholas Leah: secretary@oxford-union.org 70

U N

I O N

P R E S E N T S

HILARY TERM 2019 BALL

Tickets available through FIXR app from 13:00 Friday 25th January 2019 (2nd Week)

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Murder Mystery Night

Monday 18th February 2019 (6th week) 20:00 Dress code: Casual Members: £8. Guests: £12

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Tickets available through the FIXR app from 13:00 Monday 11th February 2019 (5th Week)

RE-

UNION NEW WEEKLY CLUB NIGHT FOR OXFORD UNION MEMBERS

FREE ENTRY FOR OXFORD UNION MEMBERS!

PLUSH · FREWIN COURT · OXFORD · OX1 3HZ

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INFORMATION

Guest Policy

Treasurer’s Treats

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Debating and Public Speaking

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Committees

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How To Get Involved

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3. All members who wish to attend the event have already taken their seats.

How To Stay Informed

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Library

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Events will be made exclusive to members when there is a security risk. Given (3) above, it is very unlikely that there will be space for guests at an extremely popular event.

The Members’ Bar

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The Oxford Union Committee

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Members are allowed to bring up to three guests to an event, as long as: 1. The guest is not themselves eligible for membership of the Oxford Union.

2. The guest pays a £10 fee on the door.

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Treasurer’s Treats

INFORMATION

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HILARY 2019

Make the most of your membership: enjoy these exclusive offers by presenting your membership card. If you experience any issues in using the discounts, please contact Amy Gregg by sending an email to treasurer@oxford-union.org.

All discounts can be found on the Oxford Union app.

Bars and Pubs Angels Be At One Duke of Cambridge Duke of Monmouth Hanks Bar Jude the Obscure Raoul’s Royal Standard Sandy’s Piano Bar The House Bar The Oxford Wine Café

Cafés & Delicatessens Barefoot Formosan Tea Bar iScream Gelateria Modern Art Oxford Moo-Moo’s Opera Café Oxford Sandwich Company Paul Queen’s Lane Coffee House Sofi de France Tick Tock Café Vaults & Gardens Café West Cornwall Pasty NEW Artisan Café NEW Common Ground NEW Fantastea NEW Le Pain Quotidien NEW Ole & Steen NEW Organic Deli Restaurants Benito’s Hat Cinnamon Kitchen Côte Brasserie Dirty Bones Mamma Mia Pizzeria Moshi Neds Noodle Box No. 1 Ship Street Pieminister Pizza Pilgrims The Alchemist Tommi’s Burger Joint Turl Street Kitchen Victors NEW Ask Italian NEW Bamboo NEW Carluccio’s NEW Café Rouge NEW Fusion House NEW Salt ‘n’ Sauce NEW Shawa Lebanese Grill NEW Taste of China NEW Thaikhun

Shops & Others Burrows & Hare Fudge Kitchen Happy Cakes OxBicycles T. M. Lewin The Fragrance Shop The Oxford Wine Company Ultimate Picture Palace WHSmith NEW Western Computer Group

30% discount £5 cocktails (Sun-Thu) Oxford Union Cocktail Menu, Happy Hour Prices (Sun-Thu) 10% discount on purchases up to £20 20% discount on drinks and pizza 10% discount on purchases up to £20 30% discount (16:00-20:00) 10% discount on purchases up to £20 25% discount on selected drinks (Sun-Thu) Oxford Union Cocktail Menu, Happy Hour Prices (Sun-Thu) 10% discount 15% discount on cakes and hot drinks (exc. Mon-Fri, 14:00-18:00) 10% discount 10% discount 10% discount 10% discount 10% discount 5% discount 20% discount 10% discount 15% discount, 20% if over £20 (exc Sat) 10% discount 10% discount (exc.12:00-14:00), 20% food discount (Mon-Fri, after 14:00) 20% discount 10% discount 15% discount 20% discount 10% discount 10% discount 15% discount 20% discount (Sun-Fri) 30% discount (Sun-Thu), 2 classic cocktails for £10 (Sun-Thu) Complimentary Kir Royale when dining 25% off food (Sun-Thu), £5 signature cocktails (Sun-Thu) 20% discount (Tue-Fri, 17:00-19:30) 15% discount (after 15:00) 15% discount 15% discount (Mon-Thu) 10% discount 25% discount 10% discount on food 15% discount 15% discount (after 12:00) 20% discount (Sun-Fri) 25% discount (Mon-Thu any time, Fri before 16:00) 10% discount 25% discount (excluding set menu) 40% discount (à la carte menu only) 10% discount (over £20, cash only) 20% discount 10% discount 10% discount (Mon-Fri, 14:00-16:00) 20% discount (Sun-Thu) 10% discount 5 slices for £17 (or 7 for £22), 3 for 2 on Fridays 15% discount Complementary bike lock with bike purchase 15% discount 10% discount 10% discount 2 for 1 on Tuesday 20% discount on books, stationery, cards 10% discount on Mac, 5% discount on iPad

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Competitive Debating The Union’s competitive debating squad is one of the most successful in the world, having won the World and European University Championships on many occasions. Over the winter vacation, Oxford excelled at the World Universities Debating Championships; one of our teams reached the Semi Final, and we had multiple speakers ranked in the top ten.

We offer workshops and coaching squads for all ability levels, whether you are a complete novice or an experienced competitor. Our beginner’s workshops run on Sunday evenings from 19:30. Open for all, they consist of a 15-minute workshop followed by a practice debate. Feel free to dip in and out, and we encourage you to get involved with these even if you have not debated before.

We send teams to multiple competitions each term.

Travel expenses are paid, and we have sent teams to places ranging from Texas to Copenhagen.

To sign up to the mailing list for regular updates, including information on how to apply for competitions and our weekly training squads, send a blank email to debate-announce-subscribe@maillist. ox.ac.uk. You are also very welcome to join the Oxford Debaters group on Facebook.

If you have any further questions, please contact the Chair of the Debate Selection Committee, Lee Chin Wee: cdsc@oxford-union.org.

Women’s Public Speaking Workshops Our women’s public speaking workshops are open to all self-identifying women and non-binary members, and are run by some of our most experienced debaters.

These workshops are designed to help you improve a range of transferable skills – from constructing a clear presentation speech to making your delivery as effective as possible – that will be helpful for those interested in debating, as well as anyone presenting academic papers or pitching professional ideas.

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The sessions are designed to be casual and accessible to those with no experience of public speaking or debating, and we look forward to welcoming you.

Further details will be advertised by email and on our Facebook page.

Mon 14 Jan (Week 1) - Tips and Tricks: How to be a top public speaker Mon 4 Feb (Week 4) - Prosecco and Pro-Ams: Pro-am debate and social (registration required) Monday 4 Mar (Week 8) - Debating: Style and Strategy

INFORMATION

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HILARY 2019

Committees There are several meetings throughout the term to discuss the running of all aspects of the Union, from the day-to-day functions of the Bar and Library, to proposed changes to the Society’s rules. All meetings are open to members and we encourage people to come to as many as they wish.

STANDING COMMITTEE

LIBRARY COMMITTEE

Monday, 16:00, President’s Office

Monday, 14:15, Morris Room

Chair – Daniel Wilkinson, President The Union’s governing body, which makes all major decisions concerning the running of the Society, and oversees the work of all committees.

Chair – Brendan McGrath, Librarian Responsible for purchasing new library books, considering Members’ book suggestions, and for all other aspects of the library’s management.

FINANCE COMMITTEE

DEBATE SELECTION COMMITTEE

Monday, 15:00, President’s Office

Sunday, 17:00, Gladstone Room

Chair – Daniel Wilkinson, President The committee scrutinises all areas of the Union’s finances, reporting its findings to the Standing Committee.

Chair – Lee Chin Wee, CDSC Responsible for organising internal competitions and training, and for selecting the Union delegation for external debating competitions.

CONSULTATIVE COMMITTEE

BAR STRATEGY COMMITTEE

Monday, 13:15, Gladstone Room

Contact the Secretary for details.

Chair – James Dix, CCC A chance for members to question the elected Committee, suggest Emergency Debate motions, and hear updates on upcoming events.

Chair – Nicholas Leah, Secretary Responsible for choosing and managing the Bar’s stocks, setting prices, composing the budget, and furnishing the Bar.

ACCESS COMMITTEE

Chairs – Brian Wong and Amelia Harvey, Access Officers Responsible for the promotion of wider participation in, and engagement with, the Society for underrepresented groups.

Friday, 13:00, President’s Office

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THE OXFORD UNION

How To Get Involved GETTING INVOLVED WORKSHOP Learn everything you need to know about getting involved with the Union’s committees, appointed positions, and elected roles at this workshop in 2nd Week. Check our Facebook page nearer the time for details.

RUN FOR ELECTION Elections for Officership and other positions are held on Friday of 7th Week each term. Being on committee gives members the opportunity to invite speakers, organise debates, and take responsibility for the overall functioning of the Society.

PARTICIPATE IN DEBATES Debates usually take place on Thursday evenings and are held in the Chamber. They cover a range of subjects and are a great opportunity to challenge speakers and voice your opinions on topical issues.

You can participate by giving a floor speech in the Emergency Debate (starting at 19:45) or the Main Debate.

Candidates are required to make a number of speeches, depending on the position for which they are running, and nomination packs can be picked up in the General Office from Wednesday of 5th Week.

The deadline for nominations is Friday of 6th Week.

For those interested in honing their debating skills, debating workshops are held in the Union every Sunday at 19:30.

APPLY FOR AN APPOINTED POSITION Applications for Trinity Term’s appointed positions open towards the end of term, and will be advertised on our Facebook page. Appointed Officials can invite speakers and arrange debates, improve access and representation, manage press relations, and fundraise for the Society.

JOIN A COMMITTEE All Union committees are open for all members to attend and observe. If you are interested in becoming a committee member, please email the relevant committee Chair.

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For more information, please contact the Returning Officer at ro@oxford-union.org.

For more information, please contact the President-Elect at president-elect@oxford-union.org.

INFORMATION

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HILARY 2019

How To Stay Informed This Hilary, we are proud to release the Oxford Union app. The Oxford Union app is available for download on iOS now, and will be released for Android devices during term.

From notifications about new speakers, to events that sync with your calendar, the app is the best way to stay up to date with all things Union. For the first time, you will be able to suggest your own questions to speakers and ballot for speaker meet and greets with one simple touch.

Head over to the App Store to download the Oxford Union app for free.

OXFORD UNION APP

Sign up to our mailing list by entering your email address on our website homepage: www.oxford-union.org. On our Facebook page, click ‘Like’ and then turn notifications on from the drop-down menu which appears. All of our events will be advertised on Facebook a week in advance of the date itself.

theoxfordunion

@oxfordunion

oxfordunion

@theoxfordunion

oxford-union.org

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TTHHEE OOXXFFOORRDD UUNNIIOONN

Library The Old Library, which is well-stocked and spacious, is open to all members. It 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, tucked away and perfectly quiet for independent study. There are a number of other study spaces in the Union, from the Goodman Library to the Gladstone, Morris and TV Rooms.

OLD LIBRARY TERM-TIME OPENING HOURS: Mon-Fri: 09:30 – 19:00 Sat: 12:00 – 16:30 Sun: Closed

OLD LIBRARY VACATION OPENING HOURS: Mon-Fri: 09:30 – 17:00 Weekends and Bank Holidays: Closed

If you have any questions, or would like to get involved with Library Committee, please do not hesitate to email the Librarian, Brendan McGrath at librarian@oxford-union.org.

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The Members’ Bar Few places in Oxford boast the comfort and affordability of our Members’ Bar. Perfect for a quiet coffee, a light lunch, or an evening drink, it is a place where members and their guests can enjoy high-quality food and beverages at student prices, with a 25% members’ only discount.

Our House Manager, Bridget Gaughan, would be happy to hear from members with questions and suggestions and can be reached at housemanager@oxford-union.org.

The Members’ Bar is decorated with memorabilia from past guests, and you never know which of our speakers might choose to drop by whilst visiting the Union. Following each Main Debate, after everyone has left the Chamber, the President will read out the result of the vote in the Bar.

Mon-Wed: 10:00 – 00:00 Thurs-Sat: 10:00 – 02:00 Sun: 12:00 – 22:30

TERM TIME OPENING HOURS: (subject to demand):

Our lunch menu is served: Mon-Fri: 11:30 – 14:30

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THE OXFORD UNION

The Oxford Union Committee

President Daniel Wilkinson Oriel

Librarian Brendan McGrath Oriel

Treasurer Amy Gregg Somerville

Secretary Nicholas Leah Lincoln

President-Elect Genevieve Athis Christ Church

Librarian-Elect Sara Dube St Hugh’s

Treasurer-Elect Charlie Coverman Brasenose

CCC James Dix Christ Church

Standing Committee

Mahi Joshi Trinity

Chaitanya Kediyal Shining Zhao University Exeter

Jim Brennan St Peter’s

Elliot Bromley St Edmund Hall

Olivia Leigh Keble

Rai Saad Khan Christ Church

Secretary’s Committee

Sundeep Singh St Hilda’s

George Hargrave Hertford 82

Spencer Cohen Brasenose

Noorie Abbas New

Jess Curry St Hugh’s

Beth Molyneux Lincoln

Adam Wilkinson-Hill Jesus

Varuna Mitra St John’s

Ayman D’Souza Christ Church

Beatrice Barr St Peter’s

Beth Chamberlain Worcester

INFORMATION

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HILARY 2019

Appointed Committee & Staff

Chief of Staff Ray Williams Wadham

Director of Digital Operations Hugh Bellamy Lady Margaret Hall

Director of Operations Amber Seaward Magdalen

CDSC Returning Officer CCS Deputy CCC Deputy CCC Logistics Officers Press Officers Sponsorship Officers

Bursar House Manager Librarian-in-Charge Events Manager Accounts Manager

Director of Sponsorship John Glance Queen’s

Lee Chin Wee Louise Kandler Samuel Burns Jack Blowers Hugh Nicholl James Johnson; Nils Lovegren; Oliver Tushingham Aastha Tyagi; Micah Oliver Lee; Miriam Ames Feldman Benedict Altier; Jeremy Mbararia; Marcel Satria; Natasha Naidoo

Access Officer Access Officer Disabilities Officer Ethnic Minorities Officer Graduate Officer International Officer LGBTQIA+ Officer Socioeconomic Officer Temporary Membership Officer Women’s Officer

Graphic Design Photography

STAFF

Director of Press Adithi Shenava Mansfield

Lindsey Warne Bridget Guaghan Thomas Corrick Joanne Morgan; Angela Eustice Rob Phillips

Brian Wong Amelia Harvey Elisa Gómez Alemán Jay Priyesh Patel Garang Dut Alice Zhang Mohamed Hussein Iman Amelia Bircham Olly Woodhouse Priscilla Guo www.graphicsbymaria.co.uk Ben Darwent

TRUSTEES

Hon. Peter Jay

Sean Power, Senior Librarian

Stephen Dixon, Senior Treasurer

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THE OXFORD UNION

Audited Accounts

THE OXFORD UNION

SUMMARY OF AUDITED ACCOUNTS

SUMMARY OF INCOME & EXPENDITURE for year ended 30 June 2018 2017-18 Actual

2016-17 Actual

2017-18 Budget

INCOME Subscriptions Gen Activities Library Income Bank Intrst Rec'd Standing Committee Income Function Income Bar income (Inc Food) Trading Subsidiary Income (OUL) Inland Revenue online incentive

622,282 210,300 4,989 2,476 158,589 209,328 102,607 98,642 3,000

186,315 8,475 150 174,484 300,000 117,000 110,500 -

1,412,213

EXPENDITURE Administration Trading Items Establishment Expenses Library Expenditure Bank Charges & Exchange Depreciation, sale of assets Standing Committee Expenditure Functions Expenditure Bar Expenditure (Inc Food) Trading Subsidiary Expenses (OUL)

244,876 2,461 294,097 124,635 8,487 3,301 271,012 97,260 83,978 129,128

248,393 1,452 195,742 133,395 8,688 5,478 275,915 99,389 76,111 96,441

1,200 373,670 145,534 12,690 500 271,434 165,091 114,547 112,425

-15,546 -110,000

SURPLUS FOR YEAR before taxation

27,432

1,403,099

1,453,814

276,886

1,259,235 OLDUT account Transfer to designated funds

738,359 88,823 5,607 2,175 160,953 212,920 100,866 90,396 3,000

556,890

1,141,004

1,473,977

30,000

-17,874 -220,000

9,837

24,221

-

Taxation

15,000

16,445

Net Surplus after Taxation

12,432

7,776

Accumulated Deficit b/f

13,963

6,187

26,395

13,963

Accumulated surplus carried forward

BALANCE SHEET as at 30 June 2018 2017-18 F'hold Prprty & Tngbl Assets Current Assets Current Liabilities

Net Assets

2016-17

190,987 1,227,223 273,968

176,671 1,103,943 258,804

953,255

845,139

1,144,242

1,021,810

162,000 26,395 955,847

162,000 13,963 845,847

1,144,242

1,021,810

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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The Union simply would not function without our dedicated and good-humoured committee.

I have learnt a great deal from working with each and every one of you. In particular, a massive thanks to Brendan, Amy, and Nick - I couldn’t have wished for a better team of Officers.

JD and AS - I couldn’t have wished for a better team of assistants.

A special thanks to the two people I could not survive without; Bren and Shiv, your honesty, sagacity, and love have been the light in every moment of dark. I would be lost without you and will never be able to repay the debt I owe.

To the friends that helped me through tough times - EJ, RH, IS, SH, CA, KOB, and BM. To the friends I made along the way - NB, BC, GJ, MV, JB, NS, HR, RP, and MC. To the friends that taught me - WB, ML, KH, GBVC, and HS for saving me far too many times.

And to the staff who made my time here a constant laugh - the journey wouldn’t have been the same without you.

I owe an immense debt to my family, your unwavering faith and support at every corner will always mean the world. Also, PM and TW - thank you for teaching me the value of good humour and that it’s only ever a “Job o’ Work”. I wouldn’t be here today were it not for your guidance and wisdom.

EH - for helping me to see myself.

Finally, I am eternally grateful to Progress and everyone who supported our vision. I will never be able to express how humbled I was to have your trust, and your faith in me will never be forgotten.

It wasn’t always easy, but thanks for making this worth it.

Onward and upward, Downward and through...

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Events Subject to Change Without Notice

TERM PLANNER Sunday

0th

Monday

JAN 13

JAN 27

FEB 3

8th 86

FEB 10 Al Jazeera 19.30

Harry Shearer 20:00

JAN 28

FEB 17

FEB 24

FEB 25

MAR 4

Kat Da

FEB 5 Brian Lara 17:00 Don McGahn 20:00

Joa Eli

FEB 12 Hugh Bonneville 17:00 Frank Turner 20:00

FEB 18

Claude Littner 17:00 Simon Pegg 20:00

MAR 3

Jean-Claude Trichet 17:00 Dame Diana Rigg 20:00

FEB 11

Congressman Delaney 17:00 Pub Quiz 20:00

Pre Sco

JAN 29

FEB 4

Al Jazeera 19.30 Murder Mystery 20:00

Bob Bu

JAN 22 Graduate Symposium 15:00

Susan Herman 17:00 Pub Quiz 20:00

5th

7th

JAN 21

Laura Mvula 17:00 Roberto Cavalli 20:00

Al Jazeera 19.30

Ton Ku

JAN 15 Marion Maréchal 17:00

AI Panel 20:00

3

6th

JAN 14

JAN 20

rd

JAN 8 President Preca 17:00

Will Poulter 17:00 Pub Quiz 20:00

2

4

JAN 7 Beppe Grillo 20:00

nd

Special Events

Tuesday

JAN 6

1st

th

Debates

Eva Son

FEB 19 Ella Mills 17:00 Ruth Hunt 20:00

Gre Tim

FEB 26 Stacey Abrams 17:00

MAR 5

The Kw

£5 Speakers

Wednesday

Socials

Thursday

Other

Friday

Saturday

Nick Offerman 20:00

JAN 9

ny Hawk 17:00 urupt FM 20:00

JAN 10 Palestine Debate 20:30

JAN 16

obi Wine 17:00 urns Night Social 20:00

JAN 23

es. Jóhannesson 17:00 outing for Girls 20:00

JAN 30

thy Griffin 17:00 aniel Brühl 20:00

Ambassador Husam 17:00 Africa Debate 20:30

JAN 24 Jim Acosta 17:00 #MeToo Debate 20:30

FEB 13

an McMullin 17:00 nam Kapoor 20:00

FEB 20

enfell Panel 17:00 m Harford 20:00

FEB 27

eo Paphitis 17:00 wame Kwei-Armah 20:00

MAR 6

JAN 18

JAN 19

JAN 25

JAN 26

Town and Gown

Prof. A.C. Grayling 17:00 Kodaline 20:00

JAN 31

FEB 6

JAN 12

PM Bin Mohamed 17:00 Eoin Colfer 20:00

JAN 17

Boris Becker 17:00 Thatcher Debate 20:30

anne Liu 17:00 iza Doolittle 20:00

JAN 11

FEB 1

FEB 2

FEB 8

FEB 9

Oxford Union Ball

FEB 7

S. Khaqan Abbasi 17:00

Love Debate 20:30 Greg James 17:00

FEB 15

FEB 14 Frank Turner 17:00 Left Debate 20:30

Ed Mezvinsky 17:00 Deontay Wilder 20:00

FEB 21 Lord Alan Sugar 17:00 Catholic Debate 20:30

FEB 28 Malcolm Turnbull 17:00 Brexit Debate 20:30

MAR 7

FEB 16 March for our Lives 19:00

FEB 22

FEB 23

MAR 1

MAR 2

Press Panel 20:00 ELECTION DAY

Kristin Chenoweth 17:00

MAR 8

MAR 9 87