After what seems like an age of preparation we have finally got the society off the ground with our first debate. It was encouraging to see the amount of enthusiasm among those that survived dodgy bus routes and fresher’s flu to make it last night. It was also good to speak to some of you without hiding behind a podium afterwards in Origins.

Congratulations to the Proposition who were successful in persuading the society to do away with Kent Union’s no platform policy and invite BNP members to take part in debate. As the only non-beginners in the debate it would have been a huge dent to the ego of myself and Ben if the result had been different! That said, there were some great points made on all sides. I think what edged it was the tendency of the opp to spend a little too much time on the minor issues instead of focusing on the bigger ones.

Paul (4th Opp) gave a great summary speech and was unfortunate not to win the debate for the Opposition, Craig (3rd Prop) demonstrated an assured speaking style and I particularly enjoyed Gerald’s (2nd Opp) figurative language when it came to portraying the BNP as the weeds in the political garden.

Next week I look forward to hearing more of you when we begin our debating masterclasses in what will be another gripping clash of ideas, this time with regards to the decriminilisation of drugs. Remember if you want to speak drop us an email or respond to this thread!

Tom