The Great EU Debate

With the European elections just around the corner, it’s hard to engage in a political conversation without referring to Europe, whether on the impact of specific directives enacted at Brussels or the very foundations of the UK’s EU membership. But what if you could engage in more than just conversation? What if you could take part in a debate with decision-makers involved in shaping EU legislation? And what if your opinions could be measured, live, against an audience representing a range of equally persuasive viewpoints?

On Wednesday 7^th May the Hansard Society will be giving you the opportunity to do just that at our Great EU Debate – have your say on Europe. Among the panellists will be politicians from the European Parliament, policy-makers, campaigners and representatives from the media, who will be presenting their arguments on four key issues:

Youth unemployment and the EU: is it helping?
Is freedom of movement a one way street?
Do we need a referendum?
Closer or further? The UK’s future in the EU.

You will not only be able to debate these important topics alongside influential decision-makers, but also vote on whether you’re for or against the arguments put forward using electronic voting buttons. The outcomes of each vote will be announced at each stage of the debate, providing both a real-time account of the audience’s stance towards particular issues, as well as a live peek into shifts in opinion and what may have triggered those changes.

This really will be an exciting and engaging event; an unmissable opportunity to have your voice heard on EU issues that affect you and your peers; a chance to learn about the work and impact of the EU from people at the centre of the decision-making process; and a unique insight into how opinions about Europe are formed. You never know, you may even just change your mind.

Want to have your say on Europe? Then register here: http://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-great-eu-debate-tickets-11058850319.

Panellists

Bill Newton Dunn MEP

Liberal Democrat MEP for the East Midlands

George Cowcher

Chief Exec of Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire and Leicestershire Chamber of Commerce

Roger Helmer MEP

UKIP MEP for the East Midlands

Cllr Brendan Clarke Smith

European election candidate for the Conservative Party

Natalie Robinson

MYP & UK Young Ambassador for Europe, UK Youth Parliament