Oxford Union Michaelmas 2016 Termcard

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Michaelmas 2016

Noah Lachs President

WELCOME The Oxford Union has meant many things to many people. To Sir Winston Churchill, in 1933, it was where a motion passed that members ‘would not fight for King and Country’, a verdict he described as, "a squalid, shameless avowal”. To Malcolm X, in 1964, it was where a chamber of predominantly white Brits voted against his proposition that, ‘extremism in defence of liberty is no vice’. To Nick Clegg, in 2015, it was where he locked horns with Nigel Farage in dispute over Britain’s membership to the European Union. But forget the outcomes of these debates and the speakers that forced them. The real memories belong to the members that attended these debates over the years: to the 1933 warmonger that exited the chamber considering the benefits of appeasement; to the 1964 awakened civil rights radical; to the 2015 Brexiteer with a newfound sensitivity to jingoistic arguments. The Oxford Union is not a church where political truths are preached, the Oxford Union is a place where everything you hold to be true can be taken apart. This might dramatically shift your perspective, or it might reinforce what you already believe. The Oxford Union has also meant many things to people outside of its debates. To President Nixon, in 1978, it was where he admitted he “screwed up and paid the price”. To Gerry Adams, in 1987, it was where he addressed members, despite being banned from British television. To Cristiano Ronaldo, in 2013, it was where FIFA President, Sepp Blatter, bizarrely imitated him, providing YouTube gold, as well as inspiration for his next goal celebration. However, the real memories do not lie with the stars,

but again, to members. Specifically, the one who posed a searching question to the former IRA man, and to the one that instigated Blatter’s impression, asking whether Messi or Ronaldo were the the better footballer. Nowhere else are students levelled with world changers and empowered to interrogate them Committee have worked tirelessly to produce this term card. We have worked with a two-pronged objective. As always, we have aimed to put on highprofile events, but for this Michaelmas, we have also aimed to do this in as many different ways as possible, covering multifarious topics. Whether your interests lie in Politics, Sports, Music, Film, Physics, TV, Health, Social Justice, International Development, your social life, or even Porn, there’s something for you. The Oxford Union has been many things to many people. What will it be to you? There’s only one way to find out…

Noah Lachs Lincoln College

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The Oxford Union

LIBRARIAN’S WELCOME

TREASURER’S WELCOME

To old and new faces – hello!

Welcome to Michaelmas! I hope you had a wonderful summer, whether relaxing at home or awaiting results, enjoying city breaks or enduring City internships.

The Oxford Union is a place for incredible stories; hearing, reading, and making them. As your Librarian, it’s my role to bring these together by delivering inspirational events and exceptional study spaces. First and foremost, we’ve worked over the summer to develop a line-up of unique insights from thought-provoking individuals. From Professor Hawking, to the founders of Black Lives Matter, Michaelmas will provide something for everyone. There will be more opportunities than ever to meet your heroes, be it at a book signing with Laura Trott, or drinks with Ben Affleck. The Union Library itself is a masterpiece, and a hidden gem. Its walls were painted by the young PreRaphaelites during the summer of 1857. In return for a couple of bottles from the cellar, the artists painted tales from Arthurian legend through the night. The Library remains a centre for study, with a collection reviewed every week ensuring it remains one of the best-stocked in Oxford. It’s an incredible place to curl up with a book – the paint is a little worse for wear, but when the sun is setting and dappled light is streaming in, it truly is beautiful.

In the Treasury, we haven't had much time for sunbathing; much like the bean-counters in 'postBrexit Whitehall', we have been working hard to strengthen the Union's finances. By collaborating with leading employers worldwide, we were able to ensure that this term card features the highest calibre of speakers. We’ve entered into a number of exciting partnerships, of which I hope you will take advantage. You will find a Treasurer's Treat card enclosed, listing exclusive discounts across Oxford. This year’s Student Essentials Fair will be one of the largest yet, offering everything from bikes to bonsai trees, and plenty of free cake. Why not drop by the JP Morgan Smoothie Bar in 1st Week, or speak in a debate, and you might just win a free hotel stay? The summer is also an opportunity to look ahead. For the first time, all social tickets can be purchased through the FIXR app, saving a trip to the Office! We are continuing work on an additional Chamber fire escape which will significantly raise seating capacity, and developing our alumni network to support future projects.

The Union exists for the benefit of the members, so if you have any suggestions, feedback, or just want to get involved, do get in touch.

If you have any suggestions, questions, or would like to get involved, please do not hesitate to contact me. I look forward to seeing you all soon.

Frances Varley Somerville College librarian@oxford-union.org

Michael Li Magdalen College treasurer@oxford-union.org

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Michaelmas 2016

SECRETARY’S WELCOME

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A warm welcome to members old and new, I hope that you have all had brilliant summers. As Secretary and the self-proclaimed Chief of Fun, my role is to ensure that the Oxford Union remains the buzzing social hub that it has always been. To that end, my team and I have been working hard over the long vacation and have a cracking Michaelmas lined up for you. The highlight of the term is our Northern Lights Ball, which is set to be one of the social occasions of the year – a feast for the senses, with live jazz, UV table tennis, a ceilidh, cocktails, cheese, wine and much much more. We are also putting on a US Election Night Social with enough beer and popcorn for all your necessary celebrations or commiserations at the presidential result. And if that wasn’t enough, there will be a number of enjoyable but demanding pub quizzes throughout term, with some exceptional prizes on offer.

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FRESHERS

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SOCIALS

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Looking further, we have also sought to inject some laughter into our more traditional events, with the third week debate featuring some hilarious comedians. Notably, this event will be held in partnership with Oxford Raise and Give, and will hopefully raise a lot of money for charity. I am confident that you will find something to excite you in this termcard, social or otherwise, so do get stuck into the abundance of possibilities that the Union has to offer.

71 Official Water Partner

Mark Fischel Balliol College secretary@oxford-union.org

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DEBATES The Oxford Union was established to protect and uphold freedom of speech, and debating remains at the heart of the society today. Debates are held every Thursday evening during term on a variety of different topics, and are often the highlight of the week. •

19:45 – the Emergency Debate. The motions attempt to tackle topical questions, and are set by the Consultative Committee each week. 20:30 – the Main Debate, featuring highprofile guest speakers. The motions have been decided by committee over the vacation, and details can be found on the pages which follow.

Members' participation in debates is very much encouraged. A ballot will be released every week for members to attend dinner with the guest speakers. In the Main Debate, points of Information can be offered to guests during their speeches, and time is also reserved for members to give short floor speeches before the last speaker on either side. There are exciting prizes for the best floor speakers in the Emergency Debate and Main Debate each week, including dinner at Côte and an overnight stay at the Old Bank Hotel.


The Oxford Union

Historically the Oxford Union’s most high-profile event, this motion scrutinises May's new cabinet, and its policy and governance, amidst post-Brexit uncertainty. With the Opposition so divided, it has never been so important to hold Her Majesty's Government to account.


Michaelmas 2016

THIS HOUSE HAS

No Confidence in Her Majesty’s Government Thursday 13th October, 8:30pm PROPOSITION

Mhairi Black MP

John Mann MP

Baby of the House and SNP MP for Paisley, she lambasted Trident renewal in her maiden speech, which went viral. She received a first from Glasgow University.

Labour MP for Bassetlaw since 2001, he currently chairs the All-Party Parliamentary Group against Anti-Semitism. He supported Brexit, and called the EU "broken" and "undemocratic".

OPPOSITION

Rt Hon Andrew Mitchell MP

Lord Andrew Lansley

Conservative MP for Sutton Coldfield since 2001, he formerly served as Government Chief Whip and Secretary of State for International Development in Cameron’s Cabinet. He was the centre of the Plebgate scandal.

Former Health Secretary and Leader of the Commons, he was Vice-Chairman of the Conservative Party before serving as an MP from 1997 to 2015.

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The Oxford Union

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The pharmaceutical industry provides treatments and therapies that improve and save millions of lives. Yet many companies responsible for these cures are subjects of profound criticism, from accusations of overpricing, to allegations of withholding cures. Can companies satisfy the demands of their shareholders whilst serving the needs of their patients?


Michaelmas 2016

THIS HOUSE BELIEVES

Big Pharma Prioritises Profits Over Patients Thursday 20th October, 8:30pm

PROPOSITION

Sir Richard Thompson KCVO

Mark Baum

Former physician to the Queen, he was President of the Royal College of Physicians in London. He specialises in nutritional gastroenterology.

Founder and CEO of Imprimis Pharmaceuticals, the company that undercut Shkreli in the price hike controversy. He has also served as President and CEO of Access Power Inc.

OPPOSITION

James Greenwood

Dr Ken Powell

A former representative of Pennsylvania’s 8th Congressional District for six terms in the U.S. House of Representative, he became President and CEO of the Biotechnology Industry Organization in 2004.

Chairman of ReViral, a UK biotech company, he also founded Arrow Therapeutics, which was acquired by AstraZeneca for $150 million.

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The Oxford Union

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Comedy comes in all shapes and sizes, from satire, to sketches, to slapstick. Everyone finds humour in different places, and in different ways, but should the ability to make someone laugh only be valued in certain situations? Is there a higher form of wit, or is crude, rude, and lewd where the money's at?


Michaelmas 2016

THIS HOUSE BELIEVES

There’s No Such Thing as a Cheap Laugh Thursday 27th October, 8:30pm

PROPOSITION

Simon Evans

Jon Holmes

Known for his plummy accent, he is a huge fan favourite on the UK stand-up circuit, as well as being a regular performer on television and radio.

Regularly mocked for his short stature, he is a two time BAFTA award winner and prolific comedy writer and radio presenter.

OPPOSITION

Ava Vidal

Barry Cryer OBE

A former prison guard, she is best known for appearances on Mock the Week and Michael McIntrye’s Comedy Roadshow.

A national treasure, he is a regular panellist on I'm Sorry I Haven't a Clue and has written extensively for many notable performers, including Morecambe & Wise.

In partnership with

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The Oxford Union

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Both Clinton and Trump suffer from terrible approval ratings. Many are baffled as to how these candidates even won their respective party's nomination. As a result, many US citizens are voting for what they perceive to be the lesser of two evils, that's if they're voting at all. To many, this race to the bottom suggests the system is inherently flawed.


Michaelmas 2016

THIS HOUSE BELIEVES

The US Presidential Race Reveals a Broken Two Party System Thursday 3rd November, 8:30pm PROPOSITION

Senator Larry Pressler

Jill Abramson

A Rhodes Scholar, he served in the House of Representatives and the US Senate as a Republican from 1975 until 1996. He has declared his support for Hillary Clinton.

An established author and commentator, she was the first female Executive Editor at The New York Times. Forbes has named her the fifth most powerful woman in the world.

OPPOSITION

Tony Parker

Congressman Jim McDermott

Serving his third term as Treasurer of the Republican National Committee, he also served on President George Bush’s national finance team. He is a Vietnam War veteran.

Now serving his twelfth term in the House of Representatives, he was formerly Chairman of the House Ethics Committee.

In partnership with

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The Oxford Union

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In the course of human history, countless objects have been lifted from colonies by imperial powers. From the Elgin Marbles to the Koh‑i‑Noor Diamond, many remain in large Western museums. Does the argument that they serve greater educational purpose kept where they are outweigh accusations of theft, in the context of an unrepentant postcolonial world? Do former colonies own the objects crafted by their predecessors, or does the passage of time allow a change in ownership?


Michaelmas 2016

THIS HOUSE WOULD

Repatriate Artefacts Obtained Under Colonial Rule Thursday 10th November, 8:30pm PROPOSITION

Wim Pijbes

Dr Zahi Hawass

The Director of the Voorlinden Museum and former Director of the Rijksmuseum, he is Chairman of the Supervisory Board of Droog Design and a board member of the Rembrandt Society.

A world-renowned archaeologist, he is the former Egyptian Minister of Antiquities and Director of Excavations at Giza, Saqqara, Bahariya Oasis, and the Valley of the Kings.

OPPOSITION

Dr James Cuno

Dr Sabine Haag

President and CEO of the J. Paul Getty Trust, he works internationally to preserve and advance the understanding of the world’s cultural heritage.

General Director of the Kunsthistorisches Museum, the Museum of Ethnology, and the Austrian Theatre Museum. She is also a long-serving curator of the Chamber of Art and the Treasury.

In partnership with

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The Oxford Union

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In an era where problems so often transcend national boundaries, the UN has made exceptional advancements in disease prevention and child protection. In its role as a protector of world peace however, it has often played the bystander during human rights atrocities. Can new leadership further the reputation of the UN as a force for good, or are its failures merely indicative of its fundamental flaws that no leader, however excellent, can surmount?Â


Michaelmas 2016

THIS HOUSE BELIEVES

The UN is a Failing Institution Thursday 17th November, 8:30pm

PROPOSITION

Ambassador Riyad Mansour

Miranda Brown

With a career in Palestinian diplomatic service that stretches back to 1983, he was appointed Permanent Observer of Palestine to the UN in 2005.

Former Chief of the East and Southern Africa section of the UN’s OHCHR, she is a UN whistleblower, having testified in 2015 about sexual abuse in the field by peacekeepers.

OPPOSITION

Mogens Lykketoft

Dr Edward Mortimer

President of the 70th Session of the UN General Assembly, he has held several ministerial positions in the Danish parliament.

Distinguished Fellow at All Souls College, Oxford. He is the former Chief Speechwriter and Director of Communications for the Executive Office of SecretaryGeneral, Kofi Annan. 19


The Oxford Union

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Does social class consist of more than just a bank statement? Does social capital supersede economic capital? Is true social mobility in any way realistic? By addressing this issue in Oxford of all places, we hope to explore the contemporary dichotomy between economic means and social status, and scrutinise the preconceptions thereof that underpin our society.


Michaelmas 2016

THIS HOUSE BELIEVES

The Class System is Static Irrespective of Wealth Acquisition Thursday 24th November, 8:30pm PROPOSITION

Kate Fox

Dr Lisa McKenzie

A social anthropologist, she is Co-Director of the Social Issues Research Centre. Her book, Watching the English, sold half a million copies.

A research fellow at LSE, she specialises in class inequality. In 2015 she published Getting By: Estates, Class, and Culture in Austerity Britain.

OPPOSITION

Lord Norman Tebbit

Tim Lott

From a working class family, he was Chairman of the Conservative Party and Employment Secretary. He implemented Thatcher's tough approach to the unions.

A Whitbread Award winning author, journalist and broadcaster, he is a weekly columnist for The Guardian’s ‘Family’ section and has written extensively on social mobility in modern Britain.

In partnership with

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The Fellowship 2017

Ambidextrous brains required WPP is the world leader in marketing communications, with more than 160 companies setting industry standards in Advertising; Media Investment Management; Data Investment Management; Public Relations & Public Affairs; Branding & Identity; Healthcare Communications; Direct, Digital, Promotion & Relationship Marketing; and Specialist Communications. We are manufacturers of communications ideas that help to build business for our clients, through creating and developing relationships with the people who buy and use their products and services. We do this through a demanding combination of hard work and flair; logic and intuition; left brain and right brain thinking.

Deadline for entry: 10 November 2016 Visit our website and apply online at www.wpp.com

The Fellowship was started, 21 years ago, to create future generations of leaders for our companies. Fellows tend to be intellectually curious people who are motivated by the challenges of marketing communications and by the prospect of working at the confluence of art and business. They spend three years on the Program: in each year they work in a different WPP company, in a different marketing communications discipline and, usually, on a different continent. Long-term prospects within a WPP company are excellent, with many former Fellows now occupying senior management positions.

To find out more, come and meet us on: Thursday 13th October, 6pm Ashmolean Museum of Art and Archaeology University of Oxford Beaumont Street Oxford OX1 2PH


PANELS


The Oxford Union

Voluntourism: a CV Boost and a Burden on Communities? Tuesday 18th October, 8:00pm For many, the benefits of voluntourism have been skewed in favour of ‘life changing experiences’ for wealthy individuals at the expense of vulnerable communities. Matt Lacey

Penny Lawrence

Creator of the YouTube video, 'Gap Yah'

Deputy CEO of Oxfam

Here we assess the overall ramifications of a global industry reportedly worth £130 million.

In partnership with

Louis Cole

Dr Philip Goodwin

YouTube travel vlogger with 1.8 million subscribers

CEO of Voluntary Services Overseas

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Michaelmas 2016

The Student Mental Health Crisis – What Next? Tuesday 25th October, 8:00pm In partnership with

Stephen K Amos

Dr Linda Papadopoulos Dr Nicola Byrom

Stand-up comedian and patron of mental health charity Time to Change

TV psychologist and academic

Founding chair of the charity Student Minds 25% of adults suffer from mental health conditions; this figure doubles among Oxford students.

Julie Fast

Liz Fraser

International besteller, writing on bipolar disorder and depression

Director of Headcase, Oxbridge graduate

Many believe that drastic action is needed to respond to this crisis in care, engaging with both the general stigma and failing institutions.

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The Oxford Union

In 2015, 51 years on from desegregation, the American police killed over 100 unarmed AfricanAmericans. They represented 37% of police deaths, despite occupying only 13% of the population. Black Lives Matter continues to push for racial justice, but is a global movement growing in controversy as much as it is prominence. This event brings together the mothers of individuals whose deaths have drawn attention to racist and even fatal law enforcement, with the founders of the movement, for what hopes to be a moving, informative, and historic event.


Michaelmas 2016

Brutality to Solidarity:

Black Lives Matter and the Mothers of the Movement Monday 21st November, 8.00pm

Sybrina Fulton Mother of Trayvon Martin. In 2012, her son was killed by a nieghbourhood watch volunteer. She is an advocate for gun control and criminal justice reform.

Lezley McSpadden Mother of Michael Brown. In 2014, her son was killed by a police officer in Ferguson, Missouri. She has written a book on the death of her son.

Geneva Reed-Veal Mother of Sandra Bland. In 2015, her daughter was found dead in a prison cell three days after being arrested. She is a campaigner against police brutality.

Valerie Bell Mother of Sean Bell. In 2016, her son was killed unarmed on his wedding day. She founded the campaign group Mothers of Never Again.

Gwen Carr Mother of Eric Garner. In 2014, her son was killed after being put in a chokehold whilst under arrest. She spoke at the 2016 DNC in support of Hillary Clinton.

Kadiatou Diallo Mother of Amadou Diallo. In 1999, her son was killed after four police officers opened fire on him. She set up a foundation which provides scholarships to young people.

Brittany Packnett The Co-Founder of Campaign Zero, she served on the Ferguson Commission and President Obama's Task Force on 21st Century Policing.

Alicia Garza The Co-Founder of Black Lives Matter, she campaigns for an end to violence, police brutality, and racism towards people of colour.

Patricia Hill A former President of the African-American Police League, she calls for a community-orientated approach to policing, and the hiring of more black police officers. 27


The Oxford Union

Institutional Corruption in Sport: What Happened to Fair Play? Tuesday 29th November, 8:00pm In the last few years, we have witnessed state sponsored doping at the Olympics, indictments and rife malpractice at FIFA, spot fixing in cricket, and rigged construction tenders. Debbie Jevans CBE

Ed Warner

Director of Sports for London 2012, and CEO of the 2015 Rugby World Cup

Non-Executive Chairman of the Board of UK Athletics

Alison Kervin

Sir Hugh Robertson

Sports Editor of The Mail on Sunday

Vice Chairman of The British Olympic Association and former Conservative MP

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The more inextricably linked money and sport become, the harder it is to root out these problems. Where will it all end?


SPEAKERS

The Oxford Union hosts world leaders from virtually every field, and each term we aim to bring you the biggest and most influential speakers. However, one problem with inviting such interesting and influential speakers is that their schedules can change at short notice. In this instance we will do everything in our power to rearrange the event,

and make sure members are given adequate notice of any changes or cancellations. 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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The Oxford Union

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George Takei Star Trek Superstar Wednesday 5th October, 7:00pm Having risen to fame as Hikaru Sulu in Star Trek, George Takei is one of the best loved sci-fi actors in the world and a Hollywood Walk of Fame inductee. His extensive work in promoting LGBTQIA+ and human rights has earned him a number of awards, including the LGBT Humanist Award 2012 and the Order of the Rising Sun, Gold Rays with Rosette by the Japanese Government. He will be joining the LGBTQIA+ Welcome Drinks.

Wentworth Miller Actor and Activist Sunday 9th October, 5:00pm Having been nominated for Best Actor at the Golden Globe Awards for his portrayal of Michael Schofield in Prison Break, Wentworth Miller is one of the most iconic American television actors. He has become an outspoken advocate of gay rights and increased mental health awareness, often speaking about his own experiences with depression.

In partnership with Deliveroo

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Michaelmas 2016

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Alastair Campbell 'Was 2005 the last time Labour will ever win a General Election?' Tuesday 11th October, 5:00pm British broadcaster, journalist and author, Alastair Campbell rose to prominence as Tony Blair’s Director and Strategy of Operations, or 'spin doctor,' from 2000-2003. An architect of New Labour, He played a large role in the preparation and release of the Iraq Dossier. In recent years, he has penned a number of books on recent British political history, and released a series of books on his life memoirs. There will be a book signing.

Example

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Musician and Producer Tuesday 11th October, 8:00pm British singer, rapper, and music producer, Example has enjoyed a number of hits during his career. From ‘Kickstarts’ to ‘Changed The Way You Kissed Me’, his work has consistently topped international charts; he has recently spoken about giving up on music and going into filmmaking and directing.

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Michaelmas 2016

The Oxford Union

H.E. Kolinda Grabar Kitarovic´

1st

President of Croatia Wednesday 12th October, TBC Listed as the world’s 46th most powerful woman by Forbes in 2016, she is the first woman and youngest politician to hold her post. During her Presidency, she has dealt with key policy areas such as youth unemployment and immigration. Previously, she was Assistant Secretary General of NATO for Public Diplomacy, and Croatian Ambassador to the United States.

1st

James Gorman Chairman and CEO of Morgan Stanley Wednesday 12th October, 5:00pm Appointed CEO of Morgan Stanley in 2010 and Chairman in 2012, James Gorman previously served as Co-President of Morgan Stanley and joined the Firm in 2006 as President and Chief Operating Officer of the Global Wealth Management Group. Before joining Morgan Stanley, he held a succession of executive positions at Merrill Lynch. Prior to this, he was a senior partner of McKinsey & Co. and began his career as an attorney in Melbourne, Australia.

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Michaelmas Michaelmas 2016 2016

Oliver and James Phelps

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The Weasley Twins Wednesday 12th October, 8:00pm Identical twin British actors best known for playing Fred and George Weasley in the Harry Potter film series, Oliver and James Phelps have also worked as runners on a variety of other films, and are supporters of the Teenage Cancer Trust.

In partnership with OC&C

1st

Jon Smith 'Football Through the Eyes of a Super Agent' Friday 14th October, 5:00pm Having managed some of the biggest stars in football, including Diego Maradona, Jon Smith is one of the most influential agents in the world. He is credited with football’s huge commercial success, pioneering product placement in the game as well as the England team brand. He is also responsible for bringing the Premier League to 180 countries, one fifth of the world's population.

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The Oxford Union

Ben Affleck

Actor, Director, and Screenwriter Wednesday 19th October, Time TBC American screenwriter, actor and director, Ben Affleck is one of the most celebrated and accomplished Hollywood stars of all time. He has starred in a number of award-winning films throughout his career, from Pearl Harbour to Gone Girl, but initially rose to fame as the co-writer of Good Will Hunting for which he won the Golden Globe and Academy Awards for Best Original Screenplay at the tender age of 25. He directed and starred in the 2012 political thriller Argo, winning the BAFTA and Academy Awards for Best Director, as well as Golden Globe, BAFTA and Academy Awards for Best Picture. He is a co-founder of the Eastern Congo Initiative, an international advocacy for community-building initiatives in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and is a staunch supporter of Hillary For America.

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Michaelmas 2016

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Mary Portas Queen of Shops Wednesday 19th October, 5:00pm An icon of the fashion and retail industries, Mary Portas is renowned for transforming Harvey Nichols into the leading modern fashion brand it is today. She has worked for a number of retail giants, including John Lewis, Harrods, and Topshop. She also hosted her own television series, Mary Portas: Secret Shopper, in which she reveals her own tips for getting the best out of the consumer services industry.

In partnership with OC&C

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The Oxford Union

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H.E. Goodluck Jonathan Former President of Nigeria

Monday 24th October, 5:00pm At the end of a tenure lasting from 2010 until 2015, Goodluck Jonathan presided over the first democratic change of government in Nigeria’s history when he lost the presidential election to Muhammadu Buhari. As the leader of Africa’s biggest economy, he oversaw a period of unprecedented growth and development, including the implementation of a state-supported electricity supply. His Presidency was not without controversy, having earned criticism for corruption and intolerance, especially following the 2014 Same Sex Marriage Prohibition Act.

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Michaelmas 2016

Wiley 'Grime and its Journey from the Start' Monday 24th October, 8:00pm London born MC and rapper, Wiley makes up one of the members of grime crew Roll Deep. He was born and raised in Bow, East London, where he worked alongside artists such as Dizzee Rascal and Tinchy Stryder to develop his distinctive style. He is often referred to as the 'Godfather of Grime' for his role in raising the profile of the genre, but has produced music from a variety of styles, from garage and jungle to mainstream. He has enjoyed great success throughout his career, with hits such as 'Wearing My Rolex' and 'Heatwave' consistently appearing in the UK Top 10.

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The Oxford Union

Russell Begaye

3rd

President of the Navajo Nation Tuesday 25th October, 5:00pm Having been elected in 2015 with a landslide twothirds of the vote, Russell Begaye is the leader of the Navajo Nation, the largest Native American tribe in the USA. He has made it a priority of his tenure to unite the variously estranged and divided tribal chapters.

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Alexis Ohanian 'The Reddit Story' Wednesday 26th October, 5:00pm Armenian-American entrepreneur, activist and investor, Alexis Ohanian is famous for co-founding the social news website Reddit, the 25th most visited website in the world. He currently sits as the Executive Chairman of the company, and recenty began dating tennis superstar Serena Williams.

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Michaelmas 2016

Jeremy Irons Actor

Wednesday 26th October, 8:00pm Classically trained at the Bristol Old Vic Theatre School, Jeremy Irons is one of the most iconic British actors. He shot to fame in Brideshead Revisited, considered by many to be one of the best TV shows of all time, in which he played the enigmatic protagonist Charles Ryder. His career has spanned the stage and screen, from the eponymous role in the Barbican Theatre's 1987 production of Richard II, to Alfred in Zack Snyder's Batman v Superman; many will recognise him as the voice of Scar in Disney's The Lion King.

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The Oxford Union

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H.E. Martti Ahtisaari Former President of Finland Thursday 27th October, 1:00pm Following the end of his Presidency in 2000, Martti Ahtisaari became the UN Special Envoy for Kosovo. The 10th President of Finland (1994 to 2000), he is a United Nations diplomat and mediator. In October 2008, he was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize 'for his efforts on several continents and over more than three decades, to resolve international conflicts', particularly in Namibia, Indonesia, Kosovo, and Iraq.

Tony Schwartz The Man Who Made Trump Friday 28th October, 8:30pm Announcing his candidacy for the Republican nomination back in June 2015, Donald Trump stated, “We need a leader that wrote The Art of the Deal�. Tony Schwartz was the ghostwriter of the book Trump calls "his proudest achievement". Schwartz has been vocal about his regrets in working on the piece, but, having worked intimately with Trump, provides a fascinating perspective into the personality and idiosyncracies of the Republican nominee.

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Michaelmas 2016

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Sikyong Lobsang Sangay Leader of Tibetan Government-in-Exile Monday 31st October, 5:00pm Having been handed all poltical responsibilties from the Dalai Lama, Sikyong Lobsang Sangay is a prominent political figure and advocate of improved Chinese-Tibetan relations. After graduating from the University of Delhi, he was awarded a Fulbright Scholarship to study at Harvard Law School, where he became the first Tibetan to graduate as a Doctor of Judicial Science. He has been vocal about the need for international support for non-violent approaches to oppression.

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The oxford-union.org Oxford Union

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Stephen A. Schwarzman Chairman, CEO, and Co-Founder of Blackstone Group Tuesday 1st November, 5:00pm American businessman and financier, Stephen Schwarzman is the largest alternative investment group in the world. He consistently features on lists of the most influencial figures in the global market, and his personal fortune has been estimated by Forbes to be worth $12.9 billion.

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Michaelmas 2016

Helle Thorning-Schmidt 'The Refugee Crisis: Do we care as much as we say?' Wednesday 2nd November, 5:00pm As the first female Prime Minister of Denmark, Helle Thorning-Schmidt presided over the successful conclusion of the Danish contribution to NATO’s strike missions in Libya. During her tenure, she relaxed anti-immigration legislation and implemented tax reform. Her career is fictionally represented by Birgitte Nyborg in the critically acclaimed TV series Borgen. She left the Danish Parliament in 2016, and is now the CEO of the international NGO, Save the Children.

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The Oxford Union

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Jack Garratt Singer and Songwriter Wednesday 2nd November, 8:00pm One of the rising stars of the British music industry, Jack Garratt is a singer, songwriter and mulitiinstrumentalist who rose to prominence following the success of his debut album Phase. He has spoken about the importance of passion and integrity in his song writing process. He will be performing.

Andreja Pejic´

Transgender Model and Activist Date and Time TBC

Scouted as a model whilst working for McDonald's, Andreja Pejic´ initially made waves in the fashion industry for modelling both masculine and feminine creations for high-profile designers such as Marc Jacobs and Jean Paul Gaultier. In 2014, she came out as a transgender woman, and became the first openly transgender model to be profiled by Vogue.

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4th


Michaelmas 2016

5th

Steven Moffat OBE TV Writer and Producer

Monday 7th November, 8:00pm Acclaimed writer and producer, Steven Moffat has won five BAFTA Awards, four Hugo Awards, and an Emmy award. Along with Russell T. Davies, he is responsible for scripting the Doctor Who series revival, with credits including such iconic episodes as ‘Blink’ and ‘Silence in the Library’. He became lead writer on the show in 2010 following Davies’ departure. In the same year he created Sherlock with Mark Gatiss, the third series of which became the UK’s most watched drama series since 2001.

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The oxford-union.org Oxford Union

Tyler Hamilton

5th

'Exposing Cycling's Cheats' Tuesday 8th November, 8:00pm The author of The Secret Race, Tyler Hamilton caused a huge storm in 2012 by blowing open the pervasive lies, deception and corruption of professional cycling for all to see. The memoir was a damning indictment on Lance Armstrong in particular, not only for his doping and cover-ups, but also for his character .

5th

Mark Foster 'Being the Best You Can Be: Motivation from a Winner' Wednesday 9th November, 8:00pm One of the most successful British swimmers of all time, Mark Foster accumulated six World Championship titles, two Commonwealth titles and 11 European titles. In 2008, he carried the flag for Great Britain during the Parade of Nations at the Beijing Olympics. He is now an ambassador for the UK charity SportsAid, which helps talented young sportspeople achieve their ambitions.

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Michaelmas 2016

Gary Neville Football Legend Monday 14th November, 1:00pm One of the most decorated English footballers of all time, Gary Neville won a total of 20 trophies in 602 appearances at Manchester United, where he spent his entire career. Upon retiring in 2011, he was United’s second longest serving player in the squad. In 2014, along with 'Class of '92' legends: Ryan Giggs, Phil Neville, Nicky Butt and Paul Scholes, he purchased Salford City with the aim of promoting the club into The English Football League. Their journey was documented by the BBC.

6th

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The Oxford Union

6th

Professor Stephen Hawking The World's Most Intelligent Man Monday 14th November, 8:00pm The most renowned living physicist and cosmologist in the world, Professor Stephen Hawking is currently Director of Research at the Cambridge University Department of Applied Mathematics and Theoretical Physics. Alongside Professor Roger Penrose, he showed that Einstein’s General Theory of Relativity implied space and time would have a beginning in the Big Bang, and an end in black holes. He was awarded the CBE in 1982, and has also received the Presidential Medal of Freedom. He was diagnosed with ALS, a form of Motor Neurone Disease, at the age of 21. He was given two years to live, and is now aged 74.

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Michaelmas 2016

Laura Trott OBE and Jason Kenny OBE Team GB Champions Tuesday 15th November, 5:00pm A famous track cycling couple, Laura Trott and Jason Kenny have won a total of 10 Olympic Gold medals over three Olympic Games; they got engaged in 2014. Trott is Great Britain’s most successful female Olympian, and is an individual and team World and European champion. Kenny is the joint holder of the highest number of Olympic Golds for a British athlete, with a total of six, and has won two Commonwealth Games medals, and seven total Track Cycling World Championships medals. There will be a book signing.

6th

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Michaelmas 2016

The Oxford Union

Sadghuru Jaggi Vasudev

6th

Yogi, Mystic, and Author Tuesday 15th November, 8:00pm Following a spiritual experience at the age of 25, Sadghuru Vasudev became a mystic; he started conducting yoga classes to share his inner experience with the aim of making ancient yogic sciences relevant to contemporary minds. The Sadghuru founded the Isha Foundation which now has more than two million volunteers, and over 150 city-based centres worldwide. In 2012 he was voted among the hundred most powerful Indians. The Sadghuru will offer a guided meditation

6th

Vladimir Ashkenazy Concert Pianist and Conductor Wednesday 16th November, 5:30pm A former student of the Moscow Conservatory, Vladimir Ashkenazy is one of the most renowned pianists of his generation. Previoulsy Chief Conductor of the Czech Philharmonic, and Music Director of NHK Symphony Orchestra in Tokyo. From 2009 to 2013 he served as Principal Conductor to the Sydney Symphony Orchestra. He is currently the Music Director of the European Union Youth Orchestra.

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oxford-union.org

Michaelmas 2016

Charles Michel Prime Minister of Belgium

Wednesday 16th November, Time TBC The son of prominent politician Louis Michel, Charles Michel held the position of Minister of Home Affairs in the Walloon Government and Minister of Development Cooperation before being elected to his current role. He became the youngest minister in Belgium's history in 2000 at the age of 25. His Premiership has coincided with a difficult time in the country's history, which has seen large scale anti-austerity protests and terror attacks in Brussels. His policies have placed an emphasis on socio-economic reform, focussing on increased business competition and job growth. In July he warned that the EU would not allow the UK access to the single market after Brexit, and has been vocal about EU compositional reform.

6th

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The oxford-union.org Oxford Union

6th

Nick Hewer Businessman and Television Presenter Friday 18th November, 5:00pm Formerly a successful PR consultant, Nick Hewer is currently the presenter of Channel 4's Countdown. He is popularly known for his appearance on the The Apprentice as Lord Sugar's stern-faced advisor, from 2005 to 2014. He is also a regular guest and host on a range of television panel shows, including Have I Got News For You. He is a long standing supporter of the Labour Party, and is a patron of Hope and Homes for Children.

Lt Gen Sean MacFarland Commander of the Coalition against ISIS Friday 18th November, 8:00pm As the Commanding General of Operation Inherent Resolve until July 2016, Sean MacFarland led the Combined Joint Task Force against the Islamic State in Iraq and Syria. He was featured in this year’s TIME 100, and is a recipient of the Defense Distinguished Service Medal. Since August 2014, he has served as Commanding General of the III Corps, responsible for more than 100,000 soldiers. MacFarland was previously Deputy Chief of Staff for Operations as part of the International Security Assistance Force in Afghanistan.

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6th


Michaelmas 2016

7th

Mark Gatiss Actor, Comedian and Writer

Tuesday 22nd November, 5:00pm Having risen to prominence as part of the comedy group The League of Gentlemen in the late 1990s, Mark Gatiss is a prominent British actor, screenwriter, and comedian. Alongside his long-term collaborator Steven Moffat, he created Sherlock in 2010, in which he also stars as Mycroft Holmes. The Independent on Sunday listed him as one of the most influential LBGTQIA+ people in the UK.

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The Oxford Union

7th

Salih Muslim Muhammad 'Kurdish Autonomy and Syrian Civil War' Wednesday 23rd November, 5:00pm As Co-Chairman of the Kurdish Democratic Union Party (PYD), Salih Muslim Muhammad has led the uprising of the Kurds in Syria since the war began. In 2011, he played a significant role establishing the National Coordination Body for Democratic Change. Originally a chemical engineer, he founded the PYD in 2003 after disillusionment at the Kurdistan Democratic Party’s lack of impact.

Baroness Shami Chakrabarti CBE Britain's Most Dangerous Woman Wednesday 23rd November, 8:00pm Former Director of Liberty, she has previously worked as a barrister for the Home Office, and was also a panel member at the Leveson Inquiry. In 2016, she chaired the inquiry into antisemitism within the Labour Party. She was the sole person elevated to the House of Lords by Jeremy Corbyn alongside David Cameron’s resignation honours.

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7th


Michaelmas 2016

7th

Rt Hon John Bercow MP 'Keeping Order in the Commons' Thursday 24th November, 5:00pm First elected as a Conservative MP in 1997, John Bercow held the positions of Shadow Work and Pensions Secretary and Shadow Secretary of State for International Development before taking up his current position in 2009. During his election, he received an unprecedented amount of support from a cross section of parties, and his political leaning is often considered centre or centre-right. The Bercow Review of families affected by speech, language, and communication needs, prompted the Labour government at the time to pledge ÂŁ52 million into addressing such issues. He is famed for keeping order in the Commons with his signature cry of "order!". In 2010 he won the Stonewall award for Politician of the Year.

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The Oxford Union

Jodi Picoult

8th

Best-selling Author Monday 28th November, 4:00pm With 23 novels to her name, Jodi Picoult is widely known for best-seller, My Sister’s Keeper. In 2003 she was awarded the New England Bookseller Award for Fiction, and she serves on the advisory board of VIDA: Women in Literary Arts, whose goal it is to foster transparency around gender and racial equality issues in contemporary literary culture. Her new novel Small Great Things tackles power, privilege, and prejudice. There will be a book signing.

8th

Dr Glenn Lowry 'The Changing Landscape of Art in the 21st Century' Monday 28th November, 8:00pm The Director of the Museum of Modern Art in New York City since 1995, Glenn Lowry curates an active program of exhibitions, acquisitions and publications. During his time as director he has built the Museum’s endowment, reinvigorated its contemporary art programme, and guided its $900 million capital campaign for the renovation and expansion of the museum.

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Michaelmas 2016

Isaac Herzog

8th

Leader of the Israeli Opposition to Netanyahu Wednesday 30th November, 8:00pm Having pledged his support for the two-state solution, Isaac Herzog is the leader of the opposition and has criticised Benjamin Netanyahu for failing to present a proposal for peace with Palestinians, or work effectively with Barack Obama. In April 2016 he wrote to Jeremy Corbyn to say he was appalled and outraged at the alleged anti-Semitism in the British Labour Party.

8th

Lord Robert Skidelsky 'The Relevance of Keynes for Today and Tomorrow' Wednesday 30th November, 5:00pm A graduate of Jesus and Nuffield Colleges, Oxford, Lord Robert Skideslsky is an award-winning economic historian. In 1992, his three-volume biography of John Maynard Keynes won the Wolfson History Prize. He is a fellow of the British Academy, and is currently writing a book on globalisation. He was previously the Chairman of the Social Market Foundation, one of the top think-tanks in Britain.

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The Oxford Union

Pamela Anderson and Rabbi Shmuley Boteach 'Pornography, Intimacy, Love, and Lust' Date and Time To Be Confirmed Springboarding from the Anthony Weiner scandal, Baywatch star, Pamela Anderson, and Rabbi-Counsellor, Shmuley Boteach, have formed an unnatural alliance to tackle the supposedly corrosive effects of pornography. They argue it is a public hazard, given how freely available and anonymously accessible it is, stating in a recent Wall Street Journal op-ed that porn is "a boring wasteful and dead-end outlet for people too lazy to reap the ample rewards of healthy sexuality�. Pamela Anderson's anti-porn stance comes just nine months after appearing on the cover of Playboy for the magazine’s final nude issue.

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Michaelmas 2016

Timothy Spall OBE Actor

Date and Time TBC Having portrayed the conniving and snivelling Wormtail, Timothy Spall is a household name principally because of his performances in the Harry Potter films. He trained at the National Youth Theatre and RADA and initially gained success in theatre before moving into TV and film. Recently, he has come to global prominence for his role as Winston Churchill in The King’s Speech. He is a patron of ChildHope, an international charity supporting street and working children.

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The Oxford Union

Sir Ridley Scott Director and Producer Date and Time TBC English film director and producer Sir Ridley Scott is celebrated for films including Bladerunner, Gladiator and, most recently, The Martian. He was made a Knight Bachelor in the 2003 New Year Honours. In 1995, he and his brother received the BAFTA Award for Outstanding British Contribution to Cinema, and he has been nominated for three Academy Awards for Best Director. His 1984 Apple Macintosh commercial was seen as a watershed event in advertising, and in 2015 he was awarded an honorary doctorate by the Royal College of Art in London.

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Michaelmas 2016

Archbishop Desmond Tutu A one-off video message to members in celebration of his 85 remarkable years Date and Time To Be Confirmed Cape Town's first black Archbishop, Desmond Tutu is a true champion of human rights. Throughout his life, there are few evils he has not tirelessly battled, from apartheid, to HIV/AIDS, to homophobia. Unfortunately, the Archbishop's age and health prohibit international travel and live video-link interaction; however, given that he is due to celebrate a special birthday during our term, he has agreed, health-permitting, to record a video message specially for the Oxford Union. Details will follow with regards to the specifcs of this unique occasion.

Wiz Khalifa Rapper Date and Time TBC A multi-award winning rapper and songwriter, Wiz Khalifa won the top new artist Billboard award in 2012, and is widely known for hits ’Black and Yellow’ and ’Say Yeah.’ His most recent album Khalifa was released in 2016, and debuted in the Top 10 of the Billboard 200 chart. He has worked with artists including Tinie Tempah, 50 Cent and Fall Out Boy.

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The Oxford Union

Senator Rand Paul US Senator and Republican Presidential Candidate Date and Time To Be Confirmed Son of former U.S. Representative, Ron Paul, Rand Paul styles himself as the foremost defender of constitutional liberties. A prominent Tea Party supporter, he ran for the 2016 Republican nomination on a libertarian platform. Despite denouncing Donald Trump at the start of the year, the Kentucky Senator has ultimately endorsed Trump over Clinton. He is a trained physician.

Director-General Irina Bokova UNESCO Director-General Date and Time To Be Confirmed Current Director-General of UNESCO, Irina Bokova is both the first female and the first Eastern European to lead the organisation. Throughout her tenure she has spoken out against anti-Semitism, and has led UNESCO’s activities on Holocaust remembrance and awareness. She is also a champion for gender equality. In June 2014 the Bulgarian government nominated her for the role of Secretary-General of the United Nations.

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FRESHERS


The oxford-union.org Oxford Union

The

Oxford Union

Student Essentials Fair Everything you need to survive life as a student, all in one place Posters, plants, and bikes on sale Check out local restaurants, hairdressers and cafés, with plenty of free giveaways. Come along, and meet companies including the following Cycle King Artisan Café Blackwell's Art & Poster Bombay Emporium Celebrations Domino's Pizza Gentleman's Barbers George Street Social

Jeong's Dosirak Krispy Kreme Mission Burrito Opera Café Rick's Café Temple Lounge Thirst Bar Turtle Bay

7th - 8th October 2016

10:00am – 6:00pm Contact Michael Li: treasurer@oxford-union.org 64


Michaelmas 2016

Welcome Drinks We have a really exciting set of welcome drinks arranged throughout Freshers' Week. With plenty of free drinks, tours of the Union, and committee members on hand to answer any questions you might have, come along to find out more and make some new friends in the process. You only need to bring your University Card. Stay tuned for more details about the exact location within the Union for each event. Brookes Drinks 8:00pm, Monday 3rd October If you have any questions please contact Brookes Officer, Steph Longdon at 15046542@brookes.ac.uk, and copy president@oxford-union.org Graduate Drinks 8:00pm, Tuesday 3rd October If you have any questions please contact Graduate Officers, laura.fritsch@pmb.ox.ac.uk and sunit.patel@wolfson.ox.ac.uk, copy president@oxford-union.org LGTBQIA+ Drinks with George Takei 8:00pm, Wednesday 5th October If you have any questions please contact LGBTQIA+ Officer, Ellie MacDonald at lgbtq@oxford‑union.org, copy president@oxford-union.org

International Drinks 8:00pm, Thursday 6th October If you have any questions please contact International Officers, nebojsa.jovanovic@spc.ox.ac.uk and niyati.gupta@st-annes.ox.ac.uk, copy president@oxford-union.org Debaters Drinks 6:30pm, Sunday 9th October If you have any questions please contact Chair of Debate Selection, Elizabeth Webb, cdsc@oxford-union.org Free tickets available through Fixr

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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.


Michaelmas 2016

SOCIALS

As well as discussing the big issues of the day, the Union is also a great venue for our members and their guests to enjoy fantastic social events. Every term we put on a range of inexpensive and entertaining socials, from extravagant balls, to refined jazz evenings, to election all-nighters,

snooker tournaments and various other events of all kinds. In the next few pages you will see what we have got planned for this term. You can buy tickets to these events online through the FIXR app. If you have any questions whatsoever contact Mark Fischel at secretary@oxford-union.org.



Michaelmas 2016

Pub Quizzes Our pub quizzes are famous not only for their difficulty, but also for their brilliant prizes. This term there will be ÂŁ100 in cash for the winning team and a range of prizes for the runners up and for round winners. And with the Weasley Twins and Wiley potentially reading out a round or two of questions, you'd be a fool to miss them. Wednesday 12th October Monday 24th October Wednesday 16th November Monday 28th November All 9:15pm If you have any questions please contact Mark Fischel: secretary@oxford-union.org

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The Oxford Union

T H E

O X F O R D

DOT'S FUNK ODYSSEY

CHEESE & WINE

UV TABLE TENNIS

DISCO STU

MISSING BEAN

LIVE CEILIDH

LIVE JAZZ (OUJO)

VODKA LUGE

VAULTS & GARDEN

SILENT DISCO

SPARKLING RECEPTION

SOURZ BAR

4th November 2016 (Friday of 4th Week) 8:30pm ‘til late ∙ Black Tie Members: £60 Guests: £70 70

U N I O N


Michaelmas 2016

P R O U D LY

P R E S E N T S

M I C H A E L M A S

B A L L

Contact Mark Fischel: secretary@oxford-union.org Tickets available through the FIXR app from Friday of 1st Week 71


The Oxford Union

US Election Night Social Tuesday 8th November, 10:00pm – 4:00am With beers, popcorn, burgers and more, what better way to welcome in these seismic election results? With presentations from expert analysts and a big screen with all the live coverage, y’all should grab some friends and come on down to the Union and drink it all in 'til the early hours. Stay tuned for ticket information. For any questions contact Mark Fischel: secretary@oxford-union.org

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Michaelmas 2016

MEMBERS' INFO Competitive Debating The Union’s competitive debating squad has a well established reputation as one of the most successful in the world, having won the World and European University Championships on multiple occasions. Whether you are a complete novice or an experienced debater, there is a Union workshop to help you improve and to compete at the highest level. Our workshops run on Sunday evenings at 7:30pm. Open for all, they consist of a 15 minute workshop followed by a practice debate. Feel free to dip in and out. If you would like to join a regular training group, trials will be held on Saturday 30th October at 7:30pm. There will be training groups for all abilities, including complete novices.

To sign up to the mailing list for regular updates and information, send a blank email to debate-announce-subscribe@maillist.ox.ac.uk To find out more come along to Debaters' Drinks on Sunday of 1st week, at 6:30pm. If you have any further questions, please contact the Chair of Debate Selection Committee, Elizabeth Webb: cdsc@oxford-union.org

We send teams to a number of competitions each term; information on how to apply will be included in the mailing list. Travel expenses are paid for travel to places including Texas, Paris and Copenhagen.

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The Oxford Union

Frequently Asked Questions Can I bring a guest to an event? Members are allowed to bring up to three guests to an event, as long as: 1. 2. 3. 4.

The guest is not eligible for membership of the Oxford Union. The guest pays a ÂŁ10 fee on the door. All members who wish to attend the event have already taken their seats. The hosting member must accompany the guest at all times.

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

oversubscribed, we will not only provide live queue updates via social media, but also release some tickets in advance for collection at the General Office (details will always be publicised by email and via social media), this reduces queueing time, and gives those members who can't queue on the day a chance to attend the event. We recently received planning permission to build another fire exit, which, when built, will almost double the capacity of the Chamber. How do I ballot for a speaker reception or dinner? For almost every speaker event there will be a drinks reception, and spaces will be reserved for members. At every debate, there will be 5 spaces reserved for dinner before and drinks afterwards. These spaces will be allocated by an automated random ballot, a link to which will be advertised by email and on Facebook.

Will long queues prevent me attending events? What happens if a speaker cancels? You will get into the significant majority of events without queueing for longer than 30 minutes. Most of our events operate on a first-come first-serverd basis; it is only very occasionally that we need to turn members away due to reaching capacity. For the few events which we anticipate to be heavily

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In the unlikely event that a speaker is unable to attend, we will do everything in our power to rearrange the event, and make sure members are given adequate notice of any changes or cancellations.


Michaelmas 2016

Treasurer's Treats Simply present your membership card to take advantage of these exclusive offers. If you would like to suggest a new Treat, or experience issues using any of the discounts listed, please contact Michael Li through treasurer@oxford-union.org Bars Angels Bar Aroma Be At One Duke of Cambridge The House Raoul's The Varsity Club

Happy Hour prices (Sun–Fri) 10% discount, 10 sambuca / tequila shots for £20 2 cocktails for £10 (Sun-Thu) Happy Hour prices (Sun–Thu) Happy Hour prices (Sun–Thu) 30% discount (4:00pm–8:00pm) £2 entry on Tuesday

Cafés & Delicatessens Art Café Artisan Café Formosan Tea Bar Heroes iScream Gelato Jimbob's La Croissanterie Modern Art Oxford Café Moo-Moo's Nectar Oxford Sandwich Company Paul Queen's Lane Coffee House Queen's Lane Deli Ricardo's Smööy Frozen Yoghurt Sofi de France The Handlebar Tick Tock Café Vaults & Garden Café

10% discount Spend £5 and get free cake 10% discount Spend £5 and get free cake 10% discount 15% discount 20% discount 10% discount 10% discount 10% discount 5% discount 10% discount 10% discount 10% discount 10% discount (before 11:30) 10% discount 15% discount (20% if over £20) 30p off coffee (Mon–Sat after 6:00pm), 2 bottles of wine for £22 (Mon–Wed) 10% discount 10% discount (12:00pm–2:00pm), 20% food discount (on weekdays after 2:30pm)

Restaurants All Bar One Ask Italian Café Rogue Côte Brasserie Mamma Mia Pizzeria Maxwell's Pieminister Qumins Indian Cuisine Shanghai 30's

20% discount if over £20 25% discount (Sun–Thu) 25% discount Complimentary Kir Royale when dining 20% discount (Tue–Fri, 5:00pm–7:30pm) 20% food discount 10% discount 15% discount (Mon–Thu before 6:30pm) 25% discount (15% takeaway discount)

Shops & Others Fudge Kitchen Happy Cakes Modern Art Oxford Shop OxBicycles Ultimate Picture Palace Zipcar

5 slices for £16 (or 7 for £22) 15% discount 10% discount Complimentary bike lock upon bike purchase 2 for 1 on Tuesday Half price membership and £30 driving credit

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The Oxford Union

How it Works Standing Committee Chair – Noah Lachs, 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

Wines and Spirits Committee Chair – Mark Fischel, Secretary Responsible for choosing and managing the Bar's stocks, setting its prices, and composing the budget. Ad hoc (twice termly)

Finance Committee Chair – Noah Lachs, 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 – Elizabeth Webb, 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 – Calum Neil, CCC A chance for members to raise questions with the elected Committee and hear updates on upcoming events. Mondays, 1:15pm, Gladstone Room

Access Committee Chairs – Ella Siney and Mason Yousif, Access Officers Responsible for the promotion of wider participation in, and engagement with, the Society. Saturdays, 3:00pm, TV Room

Library Committee Chair – Frances Varley, 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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Michaelmas 2016

How to Get Involved If you are interested in getting involved with the Oxford Union, there are a number of ways to do so. Participate in Debates Debates take place at 8:30pm on Thursday evenings, and are held in the Chamber. They cover a range of subjects and are a great opportunity to challenge speakers, as well as to 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 which precedes it (starting at 7:45pm). For those interested in honing their debating skills, debating workshops are held in the Union every Sunday at 6:30pm.

Apply for an Appointed Position Applications for Hilary Term’s appointed positions open in 7th Week of this term. Roles include inviting speakers and arranging debates, improving access and representation, helping with publicity, and financing the Society. For more information, contact Nikolay Koshikov, the President-Elect, at president-elect@oxford-union.org.

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 in Thursday evening debates, 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.

Your Student Events

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The Oxford Union

The Library The Old Library is a well-stocked and spacious library 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, and if you have any comments about them or the libraries, a suggestions book can be found in the Old Library. If you are interested in getting involved in the running of the Library, contact Frances Varley at librarian@oxford-union.org about joining the Library Committee, which meets at 7:45pm every Monday during term.

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Old Library term time opening hours: Mon – Fri: Sat:

9:30pm – 7:00pm 12:00pm – 4:30pm

On days when a large event or social is being hosted in the Union, we may have to close the Old Library during these hours. We try to our best to minimise disruption, but in the event that we have to close early, we endeavour to give members as much notice as possible.


Michaelmas 2016

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 can enjoy high quality food and beverages at student prices, with a 25% members' only discount.

Term-time opening hours (subject to demand): Mon – Wed: Thurs – Sat: Sun:

10:00pm – 12:00am 10:00pm – 2:00am 12:00pm – 10:30pm

Our revamped lunch menu is served: Our lunchtime menu has recently been updated, boasting a delicious selection of homemade options. This term we will also be hosting four pub quizzes, with a number of exciting prizes for the winners and runners up, these are always a highlight of the term.

Mon – Fri:

11:30pm – 3:00pm

If you are interested in getting involved in the running of the Bar, contact Mark Fischel at secretary@oxford-union.org about joining Wines and Spirits Committee, which meets twice per term. Our House Manager, Bridget Gaughan, is also very open to questions and suggestions and can be reached at housemanager@oxford-union.org.

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The Oxford Union

The Oxford Union Committee

President Noah Lachs Lincoln

Librarian Frances Varley Somerville

President-Elect Nikolay Koshikov Exeter

Treasurer Michael Li Magdalen

Librarian-Elect Mia Smith Oriel

Secretary Mark Fischel Balliol

Treasurer-Elect Dom Hopkins-Powell New

Standing Committee

Chris Zabilowicz Worcester

Owen Rapaport New

Laali Vadlamani Trinity

Kriti Joshi Hertford

Elizabeth Webb Regent's Park

Julian Kirk Magdalen

Gui Cavalcanti Pembroke

Alan Petri Lady Margaret Hall

Rufus Morgan Brasenose

Secretary’s Committee

Ed Evans St John's

Aidan Lea Oriel

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Juliette Aliker Christ Church

Ed Piggott St Hugh's

Simon Jagoe Wadham

Melissa Hinkley Keble

Alex Urwin Exeter


Michaelmas 2016

Appointed Officials & Staff

Chair of Consultative Committee Calum Neil Magdalen

Chief of Staff Deputy Chief of Staff Returning Officer Press Officers Assistant Press Officers Access Officers Women's Officers LGBTQIA+ Officer Disabilities Officer Graduate Officers Brookes Officer International Officers Development Officer Chief Partnership Officer Partnership Officers Guest Liaison Officers

Invitation Researchers Advisor to the President

Jack Symonds Ross McDonach Will Barnes Ebere Nweze; Neil Suchak Richard Tudor; Thomas Munro Ella Siney; Mason Yousif Dena Latif; Gwyneth Everson Ellie Macdonald Victoria Strutt Laura Fritsch; Sachi Patel Steph Longden Nebojsa Jovanovic; Niyati Gupta Henry Kitchen Maan Al-Yasiri Anne-Marie Downes; Charles Wang; Kusal Lokuge; Qinhao Zhu Alistair Hankey; Annabel Lawrence; Emily Tench; George Peel; Isaac Virchis; James Olney; Jan Phillipp Haas; Jay Fields; Joe Murphy; Julia Chobanyan; Mia Neafcy; Miranda Shaw; Owain James; Rory Allan; Rosie Morgan; Sam Campbell; Trevelyan Wing Ben Hasson; Brian Wong; Colette Rocheteau Tycho Onnasch

Staff Bursar House Manager Librarian-In-Charge Events Manager Accounts Manager Office Secretary IT Officer Graphic Design

Lindsey Warne Bridget Gaughan Su Lockley Joanne Billingham Rob Phillips Dr Lucy Ormrod Jeremy Worth www.tripletake.co.uk

Trustees Dr Jeremy Catto Hon. Peter Jay Sean Power, Senior Librarian Stephen Dixon, Senior Treasurer

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The Oxford Union

How to Stay Informed

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 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.

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Events Subject to Change Without Notice

SPEAKER

DEBATE/PANEL SUNDAY

2nd 3

Wentworth Miller 5:00pm Debaters’ Drinks 6:30pm

7

10

Alastair Campbell 5:00pm Example 8:00pm

11

Voluntourism Panel 8:00pm

17

18

H.E. Goodluck Jonathan | 5:00pm Wiley 8:00pm Pub Quiz 24 9:15pm

President Russell Begaye | 5:00pm Mental Health Panel 8:00pm

Sikyong Lobsang Sangay | 5:00pm

Stephen Schwarzman 5:00pm

16

30

6

13

20

27

Dates to be confirmed

H.E. Kolinda Kitarovic 1:00pm James Gorman 5:00pm Oliver & James Phelps 8:00pm Pub Quiz 8:00pm

Mary Portas 5:00pm Ben Affleck Time TBC

1

No Confidence Debate | 8:30pm

13

12

Alexis Ohanian 5:00pm Jeremy Irons 8:00pm

26 Helle Thorning Schmidt | 5:00pm Jack Garratt 8:00pm

Two Party Debate 8:30pm

Northern Lights Ball 8:30pm

Artefacts Debate 8:30pm

Salih Muslim Muhammad 5:00pm Shami Chakrabarti 8:00pm 23

John Bercow 5:00pm Class Debate 8:30pm

29

Sir Ridley Scott Director-General Irina Bokova Archbp Desmond Tutu (video) Timothy Spall

Wiz Khalifa Senator Rand Paul

5 Oxford IV

Oxford IV

12

11 Nick Hewer 5:00pm Lt Gen Sean MacFarland | 8:00pm

CapitOx Conference 2:00pm

18

19

24

25

26

1

2

3

17

30

29

4

10

Mark Gatiss 5:00pm

Lord Skidelsky 5:00pm Isaac Herzog 8:00pm

28

3

2

Black Lives Matter 8:00pm

Sport Corruption Panel 8:00pm

22

21

27

UN Debate 8:30pm

Jodi Picoult 4:00pm Dr Glenn Lowry 8:00pm 28 Pub Quiz 9:15pm

15

Tony Schwartz 8:30pm

Pub Quiz 9:15pm Vladimir Ashkenazy 5:30pm Charles Michel 16 Time TBC

22

JP Morgan Smoothie Bar 11:00am – 4:00pm Jon Smith 5:00pm 14

H.E. Martti Ahtisaari | 1:00pm Comedy Debate 8:30pm

Laura Trott & Jason Kenny | 5:00pm Sadghuru Jaggi Vasudev | 8:00pm

21

8

7

20

19

Gary Neville 1:00pm Prof. Stephen Hawking | 8:00pm

15

Student Essentials Fair | 10:00am–6:00pm

Big Pharma Debate 8:30pm

9

14

OTHER SATURDAY

Student Essentials Fair | 10:00am–6:00pm

6

5

8

7

FRIDAY

International Drinks 8:00pm

Mark Foster 8:00pm

Tyler Hamilton 8:00pm Election Night Social | 10:00pm

SOCIAL EVENT

THURSDAY

George Takei 7:00pm LGBTQIA+ Drinks 8:00pm

25

31 Steven Moffat 8:00pm

th

8th

4

3

9

th

6th

WEDNESDAY

Graduate Drinks 8:00pm

2

23

5

TUESDAY

Brookes Drinks 8:00pm

rd

4th

TERM PLANNER

MONDAY

0th 1st

£5

Union Election

Pamela Anderson & Rabbi Shmuley Boteach

Andreja Pejić


There are a lot of perks for doing this job, which make me feel quite guilty. This is partly because the work, thought, and support that have culminated in this term card belong to so many others. To the officers, who sacrificed their summer and sleep to put this together, and tolerated my cabin fever, thank you. To committee, who responded to numerous passive aggressive messages, and whose energy and ideas made the job, not only easier, but also more fun, thank you. To the staff for so patiently nudging me to respond to your emails, and generally looking out for me, thank you. To those, now onto better things, who helped me take the necessary steps to get here, thank you, and to family and friends – you know who you are, thank you for continuous, unconditional support.


We look for future leaders with a wide range of interests, backgrounds and degrees. credit-suisse.com/careers

Credit Suisse is an equal opportunity employer. Š 2016 CREDIT SUISSE GROUP AG and/or its affiliates. All rights reserved.


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