Questions at King’s

The King’s School, Worcester today (Friday 28th June, 2019) hosted a Question Time style debate with key political figures to get a greater understanding of the key issues facing British politics today.

The panel included a range of high-profile guests from the local and national political scene, including:

• Cllr Lynn Denham – Labour PPC for Worcester and Councillor in Cathedral Ward
• Lord Faulkner of Worcester – Labour party peer. Lord Faulkner was chief communications advisor to the Labour Party in the 1997, 1992 and 1987 General Elections, before being raised to peerage in 1999. He is currently a Deputy Speaker of the House of Lords and Deputy Chairman of Committees.
• Beverley Nielson – Chair of West Midlands Lib Dems and Lib Dem PPC for West Worcestershire
• Richard Bacon MP – Conservative MP for South Norfolk. He was elected in 2001.
• Cllr Marc Bayliss – Leader of Worcester City Council

The debate, which took place in the John Moore Theatre, was organised by Lower Sixth student Charlie Mackintosh to provide students, parents, and ex pupils with the opportunity to question key politicians on some of the recent developments in British politics.

Charlie, who runs the King’s Debating Society and hopes to study Politics at University, said: “In terms of British politics these really are extraordinary times. It is therefore more important than ever to keep the conversation alive.

I hope that by bringing this debate to King’s we will be providing an opportunity for students, staff, parents, and the local community to influence the wider debate.”

Audience members quizzed the panellists on Brexit, climate change, the cost of attending university, and the Prime Ministerial leadership contest.

Nicola Sears, History Teacher and Head of the King’s Debating Society, said: “We are full of admiration for Charlie for his hard work and determination in bringing this debate to King’s and securing some fantastic individuals to be part of the panel.

Chairing a live debate is by no means an easy task, but one that Charlie took in his stride and delivered effortlessly. Not only was it a fantastic experience for him, but it also provided our pupils with a unique opportunity to talk about some of the political issues that are of interest to them.

I’d like to thank the panellists for giving up their time and providing such an enjoyable for afternoon for our students and parents.”