the Oxford Union

Trinity 2012
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3
Contents
Presidents Welcome
Debates
Speakers
Social Events
Information
Whos Who?
page 2
page 5
page 25
page 45
page 53
page 72
4
Presidents Welcome
Dear Members,

I hope you have all had a very enjoyable Easter holiday and are looking forward to an
exciting term packed with debates, speaker meetings and socials that my committee
and I have put together over the vacation.

For all the criticism it receives, the Oxford Union is a Society like no other. As one of
the most important centres of debate in the Western world, it provides a platform for
students to go head to head with speakers who are leaders in their respective felds.
It is a forum for topical debate which doesnt shy away from controversial issues, a
venue to question and challenge the work of an unashamed mix of political, literary,
artistic, and scientifc speakers.

The Union is truly at its best when it serves as a focal point of discussion and captures
the diversity, passion, and exhilaration associated with political discourse in Oxford.
I have tried to capitalise on this strength by choosing an exciting variety of debate
topics, including the Arab Spring, social media, prostitution, and Obamas bid for
re-election. Speakers including former Foreign Secretary Sir Malcolm Rifkind, the
famed academic Professor Tariq Ramadan, US Senator David Vitter, Al Gores former
Senior Policy Advisor, American pimp Dennis Hof, and former Health Secretary
Stephen Dorrell MP will all spark animated discussion and help to keep the Union at
the forefront of controversial and relevant issues. In addition to the Thursday debates,
the speaker line-up this term has something to offer all our Members with speakers
as varied as the President of Sierra Leone, Bill Nighy, Australias former PM John
Howard, Geri Halliwell, Teddy Sheringham, Nelly Furtado, and the former President
of Samsung, the largest technology company in the world.

The Union has seen an amazing year in terms of access, innovation, and transparency.
I feel incredibly honoured to be third in the longest line of female Presidents the Union
has ever seen, and to be the Unions frst ever German President. We have come a long
way to ensure that the Union is both increasingly progressive and that its core values
are upheld. Our long-term digital strategy is shaping up, our Access Scheme has been
sponsored for the frst time ever, and we have implemented greater transparency in the
application process to meet guest speakers and attend drinks receptions.

5
On a lighter note, we have a large number of great value social events in store to get
you in the mood for summer and really make the most of this Trinity term. Our eagerly
anticipated Alice in Wonderland Summer Ball will undoubtedly be one of the highlights
of the social calendar, and there are plenty of other fantastic weekly events including
pub quizzes in the Bar, an Asian Food Festival, and a Poker Night with great prizes.
Moreover, in this year of celebration of the Queens Diamond Jubilee, we are hosting a
street party in the Union gardens in Her Majestys honour. Lastly, our Bar has numerous
new summer offerings including Pimms and cocktail afternoons in the Gardens.

The Easter vacation was incredibly short this year, meaning that we are still in negotiation
with several speakers about dates and exact timings. I encourage you to watch out for
updates on our website, Facebook, and emails to ensure you dont miss out on last minute
additions.

I recognise that the Union is not perfect. Like any other institution, it has faws and,
whilst we may not be able to fx these in a term, my committee and I have worked hard
to ensure that you get the most of your membership and the Union remains a society to
be proud of. The Union really is only as good as those who choose to be involved and it
is up to you to help us effect change and retain the democratic ethos on which we were
founded: a Society run by the Members, for the Members. Whether you wish to email me
with comments and suggestions, or you are interested in standing for election yourself, I
truly believe that this is a very exciting term to get involved and make the Society your
own.

It is a tremendous privilege to serve as your President and I look forward to meeting as
many of you as possible over the coming weeks. Wherever this
term takes you, I wish you all the best of luck.

Yours faithfully,


Isabel Ernst
St Catherines College
President
Alfa Bank is very generously sponsoring the
Unions 2012-2013 Access Scheme, which
ofers half price memberships. This is the
frst time the Scheme has ever been
sponsored. For further details, contact Maria
Rioumine on treasurer@oxford-union.org.
6
The Democratisation of Sound Creation -
Has Technology Gone Too Far?
May 2nd 2012, 2.30pm - Union Chamber
This event is organised by the Red Bull Music Academy: a world-travelling series
of music workshops and festivals and a unique, forward-thinking platform for those
who make a difference in todays musical landscape. We bring some of the most
infuential and innovative players in the industry.
And, as no day with the Red Bull Music Academy is complete without a late-night demonstration, the days talk will be put to
task at the Backdoor at The Bullingdon the same evening. With a stellar line-up of Academy alumni and Funktion 1 through-
out the 500-capacity space, expect intimate vibes with serious sounds.
For more info check out www.redbull.co.uk/rbmaoxforddebate
www.redbullmusicacademy.com
Alfa Bank is very generously sponsoring the
Unions 2012-2013 Access Scheme, which
ofers half price memberships. This is the
frst time the Scheme has ever been
sponsored. For further details, contact Maria
Rioumine on treasurer@oxford-union.org.
7
Debates
Obama
Arab Spring
Comedy
Prostitution
Human Rights
Social Media
Who You Know
The Farewell
page 6
page 8
page 10
page 12
page 14
page 16
page 18
page 20
Id rather be a good one-term
president than a mediocre
two-term leader.
Barack Obama
Obama Debate
Elaine Karmack
Ms Karmack was a founder of the New Democrat
movement that helped elect Bill Clinton and was
the Senior Policy Advisor to the Gore campaign.
Elaine is now a lecturer in Public Policy.
Christopher Lockwood
US Editor of The Economist, Mr Lockwood read
PPE at Magdalen. He has worked worldwide as a
journalist at the Daily Telegraph, specialising in
foreign affairs.
Emma Reynolds MP
Shadow Europe Minister, MP for Wolverhampton
N.E, and former Wadhamite, Ms Reynolds has
sat on the Foreign Affairs Select Committee and
served as a Shadow Foreign Offce Minister.
PROPOSITION
8
This house Believes oBama
Thursday 1st Week, 8.30pm
Andrew Rosindell MP
A Vice-Chairman of the Conservative Party, Mr
Rosindell now sits on the Foreign Affairs Select
Committee. He is also Chairman of the British-
Canadian All Party Parliamentary Group.
Mark Littlewood
Mr Littlewood is the Director General of the
Institute of Economic Affairs. He has also served
as chief press spokesman for the Lib Dems and
the Pro Euro Conservative Party.
Kathleen McFarland
Kathleen McFarland was the Deputy Assistant
Secretary of Defence under President Reagan and
a key member of Kissingers National Security
Council Staff. She also contributes to Fox News.
OPPOSITION
9
Deserves a seconD Term in office
10
This house Believes The araB spring
Arab Spring Debate
The muslim WorlD
Dr Benny Morris
Dr Morris is a professor of History in Middle
East Studies at the Ben-Gurion University of the
Negev. He once refused to serve in the IDF when
called up for duty during the First Intifada.
Con Coughlin
Mr Coughlin is the Telegraphs Executive
Foreign Editor and an expert on the Middle East
and Islamic terrorism. He is also a celebrated
author and regularly broadcasts on TV and radio.
Lieutenant General (retired) Keith W. Dayton
Lieutenant General Dayton has served as a
U.S. Security Coordinator in Tel Aviv, a senior
member of the Joint Staff, and as U.S. Defense
Attache to the U.S. Embassy in Moscow.
PROPOSITION
The Arab World is writing a new
future; the pen is in our own hands.
King Abdullah II
Professor Tariq Ramadan
As one of the most infuential intellectuals in the
world (Prospect), Prof. Ramadan is a prominent
commentator on Islams relationship with the
West, and has recently published on the subject.
Dr Norman Finkelstein
A self-described forensic-scholar, Dr Finkelstein
is a political scientist, activist and author. His
research focuses on the Israel-Palestine confict
and the politics of the Holocaust.
11
has DeepeneD The DiviDe BeTWeen
anD The WesT
Thursday 2nd Week, 8.30pm
Sir Malcolm Rifkind MP
Sir Malcolm is a former Defence Secretary and
Foreign Secretary. He is currently the Member of
Parliament for Kensington and Chairman of the
Intelligence and Security Committee.
OPPOSITION
Mehdi Hasan
Mr Hasan is the senior political editor at the New
Statesman and a contributor to the Guardian.
He advocates diplomacy and the softening of
American rhetoric.
Marwan Bishara
Mr Bishara is Al Jazeeras senior political analyst
and the Editor and host of the network show
Empire. He is the author of The Invisible Arab:
The Promise and Peril of the Arab Revolutions.
12
Comedy Debate
This house WoulD raTher
The Oxford Revue
After 60 years of fostering some of Britains
best comedic talents, the Oxford Revue
experienced a sudden and sharp decline
in 2011 with the presidential ascension
of rogue philanthropist Nick Van Davies and his puppet
stooge Imogen West-Knights, who asked to remain nameless.
The Revue is commonly greeted with choruses of booo! in
commemoration of its substantial ghost following .... I just...
words cannot... whats that [oily discharge]? Oxford lives at
home with her wife and dog, Max.
PROPOSITION
For this Debate you will be voting with your wallets; donations will be collected on the door, and the side raising the most money will
be declared the winner. Tere will also be an exclusive RAG cocktail available in the Bar during and afer the Debate.
All proceeds will go to RA Gs designated charities.
13
Thursday 3rd Week, 8.30pm
Be maD Than meDiocre
The Oxford Imps
Since 2003 The Oxford Imps have gained a
reputation as one of the countrys foremost
improvised comedy groups. In addition to
their legendary regular Wheatsheaf shows,
they play frequently at Oxbridge College Balls, music and
comedy festivals, and previously have sold out the full run of
the Edinburgh Festival Fringe, at which they play every year.
They have also toured the USA, France, and Holland. Every
Imps show is created entirely spontaneously from audience
suggestions.
OPPOSITION
Imperfection is beauty, madness is
genius, and its better to be absolutely
ridiculous than absolutely boring.
Marilyn Monroe
For this Debate you will be voting with your wallets; donations will be collected on the door, and the side raising the most money will
be declared the winner. Tere will also be an exclusive RAG cocktail available in the Bar during and afer the Debate.
All proceeds will go to RA Gs designated charities.
In association with
14
Prostitution Debate
This house WoulD recognise
Dennis Hof
Mr Hof is an American pimp and owner of The
Bunny Ranch in Nevada. He has been involved
in two HBO documentaries about the ranch and
has revealed that he only dates working girls.
Kat Banyard
Ms Banyard is a former Guardians most
infuential young feminist in the country and
founder of UK Feminista, an organisation that
supports grassroots feminist activism.
Dr Fiona Godlee
Dr Godlee has written on the subject of prostitution
for the BMJ, of which she is Editor-in-Chief, and
argued publicly in 2006 for increased government
intervention to make sex work safe.
PROPOSITION
Johnny Anglais
Mr Anglais is a sexual libertarian who became
an adult entertainer, having formerly worked as
a teacher. He frequently defends the existence of
pornography and freedom of sexual expression.
15
Thursday 4th Week, 8.30pm
prosTiTuTion as a legiTimaTe Business
Julie Bindel
Ms Bindel is the co-founder of Justice for Women
and authored a report on brothels commissioned
by the POPPY project, an organisation which helps
those traffcked into any form of exploitation.
Dr Julia Long
Dr Long is a board member of OBJECT and an
activist with the London Feminist Network. She
also has a PhD in feminist anti-porn activism and
will soon publish a book on the subject.
Ellie Levenson
Ms Levenson is the author of The Noughtie Girls
Guide to Feminism. She has campaigned for
greater availability of the morning after pill and
was named a feminist icon by The Times.
OPPOSITION
Slavery still exists, but now it
applies only to women and its
name is prostitution.
Victor Hugo
16
This house Believes force can Be
Dr Denis MacShane MP
Dr MacShane is an MP, former Minister for
Europe, and a Policy Council member for Labour
Friends of Israel, which promotes support for a
strong relationship between Britain and Israel.
Edward McMillan-Scott MEP
Mr McMillan-Scott is a Vice-President of the
European Parliament; his portfolio deals with
Democracy and Human Rights. He is also a vocal
campaigner against Chinas human rights record.
Elfyn Llywd MP
As Plaid Cymrus Westminster parliamentary
group leader, he attempted to impeach Tony Blair
over Iraq, claiming Blair had reached a secret
agreement with President Bush to go to war.
PROPOSITION
Human Rights Debate
17
JusTifieD in DefenDing human righTs
Jim Duggan
Mr Duggan stood as the Peace Party parliamentary
candidate for Horsham at the 2010 general
election. He strongly believes in promoting a
conscious change towards a society of peace.
Patrick Cockburn
Mr Cockburn is the Middle East Correspondent
for the Independent. He has covered the
Libyan intervention, the Iraq wars, and won the
prestigious Orwell Prize for Journalism in 2009.
Geraldine Van Bueren
A leading international human rights lawyer, Ms
Van Bueren was one of the original drafters of the
United Nations Convention on the Rights of the
Child and is a respected academic in this feld.
OPPOSITION
Thursday 5th Week, 8.30pm
Sometimes, a war saves people.
Jos Ramos-Horta
18
Benjamin Cohen
Mr Cohen is the C4 technology correspondent
and founder of jewishnet.co.uk. He is also known
for his dot.com enterprises, especially for a
dispute over the domain itunes.co.uk.
Mark Pfeife
Vice President of S4 Inc, Mr Pfeife is a former US
National Security Advisor. He gained notoriety
in 2009 for his suggestion that Twitters creators
were worthy of the Nobel Peace Prize.
Senator David Vitter
A former lawyer, Mr Vitter is now the Senator for
Louisiana, elected to the House of Representatives
in 1999 and to the Senate in 2004 and 2010. He
is a prominent member of the Republican Party.
PROPOSITION
Social Media Debate
This house Believes ThaT social
social
Facebook activism succeeds not
by motivating people to make a real
sacrifce but by motivating them to do
the things that people do when they are
not motivated enough to make a real
sacrifce.
Malcolm Gladwell
19
Mark Kersten
Mr Kersten is the author and creator of the Justice
in Confict blog. He has worked as a research
assistant for Justice Africa and has also held
various positions in the Green Party of Canada.
Dr Christopher Carpenter
Dr Carpenter is a Professor of Communications at
the University of Western Illinois specialising in
the infuence of social media and how relationships
change with advances in technology.
Matt Warman
Mr Warman is the Consumer Technology Editor
at the Telegraph. He covers all aspects of new
technology including broadband, mobiles,
computing, television, and copyright.
Robert Sharp
Mr Sharp is the Head of Campaign and
Communications at English PEN. He is also a
blogger and a former member of Ed Milibands
web team during his Labour leadership campaign.
OPPOSITION
Thursday 6th Week, 8.30pm
meDia has successfully reinvenTeD
acTivism
20
Peter York
Mr York is the co-author of The Offcial Sloane
Ranger Handbook and a columnist for The
Independent on Sunday and GQ. He is also an
associate of Editorial Intelligence.
Stephen Dorrell MP
Mr Dorrell MP has previously held the position
of Secretary of State for Health. He is a Patron of
the Tory Reform Group and currently holds the
constituency of Charnwood.
Carole Stone
Ms Stone, of Radio 4s Any Questions? has
been voted the Best Connected Woman in
British Business. She has also recently authored
Networking- the Art of Making Friends.
PROPOSITION
This house Believes ThaT in BriTain,
imporTanT Than WhaT
Who You Know Debate
21
Dr Madsen Pirie
Dr Pirie is the founder and current President
of the Adam Smith Institute, a think tank that
champions the ideas of free market policy. He is
also the author of several successful books.
Dr George Martin Stephen
Dr Stephen has served as the High Master of
St Pauls School and Manchester Grammar
School. He also sat as chairman of the prestigious
Headmasters and Headmistresses Conference.
Lord Butler
Lord Butler is a former Private Secretary to fve
Prime Ministers. Having also served as Head of
the Civil Service, Lord Butler has long been a
heavyweight in British politics.
OPPOSITION
Who you KnoW is sTill more
you KnoW
Thursday 7th Week, 8.30pm
More business decisions occur over
lunch and dinner than at any other time,
yet no MBA courses are given
on the subject.
Peter Drucker
22
Izzy Ernst
The crazy Catz girl is back! Oh wait, shes just about to
leave. With proven German effciency, this committed
feminist has proven she will never tire of saying hallo...
or stroking the lower forearms of Oxfords BNOCs.
Luke Eaton
He might be a proud Englishman through and through,
but in the end he couldnt resist the charm of our German
Princessa. Standing by her side until the bitter end, he has
replaced Bieber with techno and learnt to locate Germany
on a world map.
Maria Rioumine
Russian blood in her veins, Maria fell in love with a German
man (or maybe his sister? who knows). Out of necessity,
she has had to learn to value German traditions and is now
waiting for the man of her dreams to come and say Hallo.
Nina Fischer
Stranded on an island, surrounded by banter and BNOCs,
Nina has often asked herself where her fellow compatriots
are hiding. Giving up on searching, she decided to infltrate
the system. Ever since, Nina has risen to the top of the
OUCA elite. Oops, we meant OCA.
PROPOSITION
The Farewell
This house JusT came
23
Jack Sennett
It might have taken some persuasion but the best Treasurer
in history has fnally realised that studying is a waste of
time so hes ditching his degree to defend English pride
against the German invasion.
Lauren Pringle
A Scot at heart, for the longest time she thought she had
been successful in her plan to take over the Union for
Scotland. Seeing her beloved Society being conquered by
the bloody Germans is not something she can just stand by
and watch. So shes back, to fnish this once and for all.
James Lester
James has never really understood females, let alone the
German species. Apparently, they all eat sauerkraut and
wear Lederhosen. In any case, they are too intimidating to
deal with and just this once, James has come to stand frm
to fght for his rights as an Englishman.
Rishi Patel
The Unions infamous keeper of lash and all-time
favourite Ex-Treasurer has decided to come back and go all
out one last time and fght for..er.. what exactly? Oh well,
tchin tchin!
OPPOSITION
Thursday, 8th Week
To say hallo
Oh, hallo...
Isabel Ernst
24
OXDOX 2012
The Four Horsemen
Film Screening and Panel Discussion
on the Worlds Banking Crisis
at the Oxford Union
Friday 27th April
7.00pm to 8.30pm - Premiere Screening of Four Horsemen
8.30pm to 9.30pm - Live Panel Discussion
The modern day horsemen continue to ride roughshod over the people who
can least afford it. Twenty three international thinkers come together and
break their silence about how the world really works and why there is still
some hope in re-establishing a moral and just society. The flm ignites the
debate about how we usher a new economic paradigm into the world which
would dramatically improve the quality of life for billions.
There will be a Panel Discussion with Megan Murphy (Investment Banking
Correspondent at the Financial Times); Professor David Vines (Professor
of Economics and Fellow of Balliol College, Oxford); Dr. Ha-Joon Chang
(author of the best-selling book 23 Things They Dont Tell You About
Capitalism) and Tarek El Diwany (former trader and head of Islamic Finance
Department at Prebon Yamane).
Directed by Ross Ashcroft, this flm will be shown in seven cinemas across
the UK, including The Frontline Club in London.
25
26
Want to have your say?
The Oxford Union is Oxfords most prominent debating society. As such,
we actively encourage all our Members to participate in our Debates.
Input from Members is welcomed, and if you are looking to have your
say then please do put up your hand and volunteer to give a foor speech,
when asked by the President. These last two minutes, and are the perfect
opportunity to put your point across.
Prizes to be won
Make sure you have your say during the Debate to be in with
a chance of winning a months free membership at LA Fitness,
dinner for two at Shezan Restaurant, a free haircut at Matthew
Clulee, afternoon tea at the Randolph, or a Lush gift set. You will
be contacted if you have won.
27
Speakers
Steve Rider
Nelly Furtado
Teddy Sheringham
Billy Nighy
Tarja Halonen
John Howard
Geri Halliwell
President Koroma
Andy Gray & Richard Keys
28
Steve Rider
Steve Rider has been a household name in sports
broadcasting for the last thirty years. After
joining BBC Sport in 1985, he covered every
Olympic Games until 2004. He also became
the familiar face of Grandstand and presented
BBC Sports Personality of the Year. In 2006,
he moved to ITV where he presented the 2011
Rugby World Cup. He has won the Royal
Television Societys Sports Presenter of the Year
Award twice as well as two BAFTA Awards.
Tuesday, 2nd Week, 1st May, 7.30pm
John Barnes MBE
John Barnes began his career at Watford FC. In
1984 he scored that goal for England against
Brazil at the Maracana Stadium, marking his
arrival on the world stage. In 1987 Barnes moved
to Liverpool where he won the league and FA
Cup twice each. He played for England a total of
seventy nine times during his career.
Friday, 2nd Week, 4th May, 5.00pm
29
Sir Mark Lyall Grant
Sir Mark Lyall Grant is the British permanent representative
to the United Nations and the most recent President of
the United Nations Security Council. He has spent time
as Head of the European Union Department, Director
of the Africa Division, and Director General for
Political Affairs at the FCO, and as
High Commissioner for Pakistan.
Weds, 2nd Week, 2nd May, 7.00pm
in association with OXCIP
Bill Browder
Bill Browder is the CEO and co-founder of
Hermitage Capital. He and those close to
him have been the victims of multiple crimes,
culminating in the murder of one of his lawyers.
He will be speaking about his unique and brutal
experiences of state sanctioned violence and
corruption in Russia.
Wednesday, 1st Week, 25th April, 5.00pm
Wednesday, 3rd Week, 9th May, 7.30pm
Richard Farleigh
Richard Farleigh is an investor, and one of the
wealthiest and most successful businessmen in
Australia. In 2006 he was on the panel for the
highly popular programme Dragons Den and was
noted for his calm and constructive approach.
He is also author of the acclaimed
Taming The Lion.
30
Dr. Chang Gyu Hwang
Dr. Chang Gyu Hwang is the former Senior
President of Samsung and is currently the
national Chief Technology Offcer of South
Korea. Under his presidency, Samsung became
one of only ten companies in the $10 Billion-
Net-Proft-Club, and now has a larger revenue
than IBM, Microsoft, and Apple. He will be
speaking about his experiences and sharing
dramatic stories of his close relationships with
Andy Grove and Steve Jobs.
Thursday, 3rd Week, 10th May,
4.00pm
Dennis Wise
Dennis Wise is a former manager of Leeds
United and Executive Director of Newcastle
United. Dennis previously had great success
as a central midfelder. He earned 21 caps for
England during his career. The six clubs that he
has played for include Wimbledon, Millwall,
and most notably Chelsea, where he won two FA
Cups, a League Cup, and a Cup Winners Cup.
In the process, Wise became one of Chelseas
most successful captains.
Wednesday, 4th Week, 16th May
8.00pm
31
Nelly Furtado
Nelly Furtado is a Canadian singer-songwriter and record producer.
Nelly frst gained fame with her debut album, Whoa, Nelly! and its
single Im Like A Bird, which won a 2002 Grammy Award. After
another international album she released her third studio album,
Loose in summer 2006, which was her biggest worldwide success. It
produced the number one hits Promiscuous and Maneater.
Known for her musical variety, she released her frst full-
length Spanish album Mi Plan in September 2009 and
will release her fourth English studio album, The Spirit
Indestructible, on 19th June 2012.
4th Week, date and time
to be announced
32
Brendan Cole
Brendan Cole is one of the most recognisable
ballroom dancers across the globe. He has been
dancing since the age of six, and came to the
UK when he was nineteen. Brendan is most
famous as a professional dancer from all eight
series of the BBCs Strictly Come Dancing.
Before becoming a professional dancer, Brendan
worked as a builder and roof-layer. He has also
been a guest judge on Britains Next Top Model.
Monday, 5th Week, 21st May, 7.00pm
Andrew Mitchell MP
Andrew Mitchell is the Secretary of State for
International Development and a Conservative
MP. He has formerly worked as a UN peacekeeper
and founded Project Umubano in 2007, a project
for social action in Rwanda and Sierra Leone.
He is a keen advocate of transparency and value
for money in British aid contributions, and is
committed by 2013 to reaching the UN target of
spending 0.7% of UK gross national income on
aid to the developing world.
Thursday, 4th Week, 17th May,
5.30pm
in association with OCA
33
Perou
Ralph John Perou, known
professionally as Perou, is a British
fashion, portrait and music photographer
who has also appeared as a judge on Make Me a
Supermodel UK and on season 2 of the American
equivalent. He was part of the TV series Dirty
Sexy Things, which aired in 2011 on E4.
Friday, 5th Week, 25th May, 7.30pm
Teddy Sheringham
MBE
Teddy Sheringham MBE is a retired English
footballer who had an extremely successful career
at club level. He won almost every domestic
honour available with Manchester United,
including the Treble in the 1998-99 season. The
pinnacle of his career came when he scored the
equaliser and provided the assist for Uniteds
winning goal in the 1999 Champions League
Final against Bayern Munich in Barcelona.
Monday, 6th Week, 28th May, 7.30pm
34
Bill Nighy
Bill Nighy is an English actor and comedian. He worked in theatre
and television before his frst cinema role in 1981, and made his
name in television with The Mens Room in 1991, in which he
played the womanising Professor Mark Carleton. He is well
known for his performances in blockbusters such as Love Actually,
Valkyrie, Pirates of the Caribbean and Harry Potter and the Deathly
Hallows. This year he can be seen in Wrath of the Titans as well
as Total Recall. He is also a philanthropist, being a patron of the
Disabled Childrens Club, the Ann Craft Trust, and one of
the Honorary Patrons of the London childrens charity
Scene & Heard.
Wednesday, 5th Week, 23rd
May, time to be announced
35
Tarja Halonen
Tarja Halonen was the 11th President of Finland, serving
from 2000 to March of this year. A member of the Social
Democratic Party, the former lawyer had an extensive career
in trade unions and NGOs, and served in Parliament from
1979 before winning the presidency in 2000. Strongly
committed to issues such as womens and LGBT rights, she
is one of the most popular political personalities in Finland
and has been ranked as one of Forbes 100 Most
Powerful Women in the World in 2008 and 2009.
She is now co-Chair of the United Nations High
Level Panel on Global Sustainability.
Wednesday, 5th Week,
23rd May, 5.00pm
36
Bernard Hill
Bernard Hill is known for his astounding acting
career that has spanned nearly four decades on
both sides of the Atlantic. He is acknowledged
as one of the most prominent British actors of all
time. Hill came to prominence through his role
as Yosser Hughes in Alan Bleasdales The Black
Stuff. Throughout his career he has played a
number of iconic roles in blockbuster flms such
as Titanic and The Lord of the Rings. His theatre
credits are just as impressive, including playing
the role of Macbeth.
Tuesday, 6th Week, 29th May,
8.00pm
John Howard
John Howard was Prime Minister of Australia
from 1996 to 2007. Howards government
pursued broadly free market economic policies,
achieving an average of 3.6% growth per annum
and eliminating Australias defcit. Howard
was also a close ally of the US, and supported
the invasion of Iraq in 2003. His government
developed closer ties with China, which is
now Australias biggest export market. His
autobiography has become the best selling
political memoir in Australian history.
Tuesday, 6th Week, 29th May, 5.00pm
37
Lord Adonis
Lord Adonis is an author, academic, and
journalist as well as a Labour Life Peer. He is
perhaps best known for serving as Secretary
of State for Transport between 2009 and 2010.
Adonis is widely credited with the policy of
introducing academies in England, having
worked in the Prime Ministers policy unit and
the Department for Education and Skills during
the New Labour years. He is promoting his new
book Education, Education, Education.
Tuesday, 7th Week, 5th June, 5.00pm
Newton Faulkner
Newton Faulkner is an English musician known
for his unique guitar style, and is a fan favourite
at music festivals. His debut album Rebuilt by
Humans was named after Newton had slipped on
some ice and badly injured his wrist, into which
doctors had to ft a metal plate. Newton said that,
effectively, he had been put back together again
by humans.
Friday, 6th Week, 1st June,
7.30pm
0th Week
1st Week
2nd Week
3rd Week
4th Week
5th Week
6th Week
7th Week
Sunday Monday Tuesday
8th Week
the OxfOrd UniOn
15 16 17
22 23 24
29 30 1
6 7 8
13 14 15
20 21 22
27 28 29
3 4 5
10 11 12
38
Pub Quiz
Pub Quiz
Teddy Sheringham
Pub Quiz
LexisNexis Legal
Forum
Taste of Asia
How to Get
Involved Session
Steve Rider
Ball Launch Party
Brendan Cole
President Koroma
John Howard
Bernard Hill
Lord Adonis
Debating
Workshop
Debating
Workshop
Debating
Workshop
Debating
Workshop
Debating
Workshop
Debating
Workshop
Debating
Workshop
Geri Halliwell
Wednesday Thursday Friday Saturday
18 19 20 21
25 26 27 28
2 3 4 5
9 10 11 12
16 17 18 19
23 24 25 26
30 31 1 2
6 7 8 9
13 14 15 16
39
Obama
Debate
Red Bull Debate
Mark Lyall Grant
Dennis Wise
Poker Night
OXDOX Panel
Discussion
Arab Spring
Debate
FA Cup
Social
Bill Browder
Alice in
Wonderland
Summer Ball
Tibet Film
Screening
John Barnes
Human Rights
Debate
Newton Faulkner
Dr Chang Gyu
Hwang
Comedy
Debate
Tarja Halonen
Bill Nighy
Who You Know
Debate
Andrew Mitchell
Prostiution
Debate
Richard Farleigh
Social Networks
Debate
Perou
Diamond Jubilee
Street Party
Elections
Sam Sparro
Farewell
Debate
40
Geri Halliwell shot to fame in the late 1990s as a
member of the Spice Girls, the best selling female
group of all time. She went on to have a very
successful solo career, selling 12 million records
worldwide and with four singles reaching number
one. More recently she has been a guest judge on
t he X Factor, released a successful clothing range
for Next, and worked extensively for the
UNs charity program in Africa.
Monday, 8th Week, 11th June,
7.30pm
Geri Halliwell
41
Sam Sparro
Grammy nominated artist Sam Sparros smash hit
Black and Gold introduced his specifc brand of
polished popstar meets soul crooner brilliance to the
world, hitting the top 20 in over 14 countries. 2012 will
fnd Sam back in familiar chart topping territory with
the release of his highly anticipated new album Return
to Paradise out on EMI/Virgin.
Thursday, 8th Week, 14th June, 3.00pm
David Gandy
David Gandy is an English model, who has worked for
Dolce & Gabbana and has appeared on the covers of
Harpers Bazaar and Glamour. In 2009, Forbes Magazine
ranked him as the worlds third most successful male
model. He has also worked with supermodels Gemma
Ward and Naomi Campbell, and currently writes a blog
for Vogue where he discusses his modelling and extra-
curricular work.
Date and time to be announced
Annabel Croft
Annabel Croft is a former professional tennis player,
currently working as a television presenter and
commentator for Sky Sports. As a junior she won the
Wimbledon and Australian Open tournaments and
represented GB in the Fed Cup and the Wightman Cup.
Despite achieving a highest ranking of 21 she then retired
from professional tennis, noting the stress of the tour as
one of the factors in her decision.
Date and time to be announced
42
President Koroma
Ernest Koroma is the fourth and current President of Sierra
Leone. Leader of the All Peoples Congress, Koroma has
sought to rebuild the country after the devastating Civil War
which lasted from 1991 until 2002. His government has
attempted to implement free market solutions to the
problems of corruption, poor healthcare, and an
infrastructure devastated by the confict. He is also
notable for being one of the few African leaders to
have condemned Zimbabwean President Robert
Mugabe. He is hoping to be re-elected to a
second and fnal term in November.
Tuesday, 6th Week, 29th May,
2.00pm
43
Andy Gray &
Richard Keys
Andy Gray and Richard Keys work as football commentators
for TalkSport having been dismissed from Sky Sports last
January. Andy Gray had an illustrious playing career at a range
of clubs including Aston Villa, Wolverhampton Wanderers,
Everton, and Rangers, and also played twenty times for
Scotland. Keys presented Sky Sports coverage of
Premier League football from the leagues inception
in 1992 until his dismissal. The two now present
the 10am-1pm slot on TalkSport.
Date and time to be
announced
44
Russell Tovey
Russell Tovey is an English actor
who is best known for playing the role of
George Sands in the BBCs supernatural drama
Being Human. He also has numerous television,
flm and stage credits, including playing the part
of Rudge in The History Boys. More recently,
Tovey has written three plays as well as a short
flm, Victor.
Date and time to be announced
Ambassador Sandis
His Excellency Aristidis Sandis is the Greek
Ambassador to the UK. Sandis has served as
a diplomat in countries as varied as the Soviet
Union, South Africa, and Jordan; he has also
worked for the Organisation for Security and
Cooperation in Europe.
Date and time
to be announced
45
Date and time
to be announced
George Lamb
George Lamb is an English radio and TV presenter
who currently presents The Bank Job. His
successful radio career involved him presenting
his own daytime BBC show for two years. George
will speak about youth today, and what we can do
to help improve the prospects of unemployed
young people.
Date and time to be announced
Librarians negotiations
Donatella Versace
Pete Doherty
Jackie Chan
Ray Mears
Mark Ronson
Whilst these speakers are currently in negotiation, we
will let you know if they prove fruitful. Please keep
checking our website for more updates.
Want to meet the speakers face to face?
For your chance to meet this terms speakers over a drinks reception
where possible after their talk, email oxfordunionballot@gmail.
com with the name of the speaker (in the subject line) and 50 words
on why you would like to meet them. The ballot will be open from
one week until two days before the speaker event takes place, after
which those who have been successful will be informed.
Presidents drinks
Each Thursday after our Debate the President hosts a drinks
reception in the Gladstone Room for guest speakers and Union
Members. For your chance to come, enter the weekly ballot by
emailing oxfordunionballot@gmail.com by 11.00pm on the
Tuesday before the Debate. You will be informed by 11.00am
on the day of the Debate.
46
47
Social Events
Alice in Wonderland Summer Ball
FA Cup Social
Pub Quiz
Poker Night
Taste of Asia
Diamond Jubilee Street Party
Pimms Party
Undercover in Tibet
page 46
page 48
page 48
page 49
page 49
page 50
page 51
page 51
50
Taste of Asia
Delicious Asian Food,
including chinese from KOI
Unlimited Thai iced tea
alcohol at the bar
OXCAR a cappella group
magic show by kened ho
Tuesday 22nd
May
7.30pm
9 (Oxford Union +
OUAPS members)
12 (Guests)
in association with Oxford
University asian-Pacifc society
contact parit.wacharasindhu@sjc.ox.ac.uk for more information
51
Poker Night Social
- Trained Croupiers
- Fantastic Prizes
- Promotional Cocktails
- Chocolate Fountain
Members 10
Guests 13
Wednesday 4th Week (16th May) 8.00pm - late
Gladstone Room
nicholas.hobhouse@trinity.ox.ac.uk
52
Shezan Indian & Balti Cuisine is kindly providing
the Union with debate floor prizes and catering
for the Diamond Jubilee Street Party this term
1st Floor
135 High Street
Oxford OX1 4DN
Tel: 01865251600
www.shezanoxford.co.uk
53
Undercover in
Tibet
May 19th - 7.30pm
Oxford Union Goodman Library
In 2008 a young Tibetan man went back to Tibet,
from whence he had escaped over the Himalayas
ten years previously, and he made a flm with
Channel 4 depicting the terrible state of aairs
for the Tibetans in Tibet.
7.30pm - Introductory Speech by
Mr Tubten Samdup
7.45pm - Film Screening
8.35pm - Q&A (by Mr Tash Despa,
maker of the flm)
9.00pm - Finish
Mr Tubten Samdup has been the
Representative of His Holiness the Dalai
Lama in the UK and Northern Europe
since August 2009.
54
55
Information
Facilities
The Union Bar
The Libraries
The Treasury (including Treasurers Treats)
Competitive Debating
How the Union Works
How to Get Involved
Committee, Staff and Appointed Offcials
Presidents Thanks
Whos Who
page 54
page 55
page 56
page 58
page 60
page 62
page 64
page 66
page 70
page 72
Facilities
56
Members Bar
Redecorated and revived, the Bar is one of the most central, atmospheric
and best-value bars in Oxford. Serving both food and drink, it is an excellent
alternative to your College Bar.
Snooker Room
The Union has two full-sized snooker tables (the only ones in central Oxford)
which are available exclusively for use by Members. Book for just 2.50 per
hour in the General Offce or at the Bar outside offce hours.
Internet & Photocopying
Free wireless internet is available throughout the buildings - just
register in the General Offce to obtain the log-in details. Photocopying is
available in the Old Library - some of Oxfords cheapest at just 5p per copy.
Television Room
There is a 50-inch plasma screen in the television room with terrestrial and
digital television, as well as a DVD player.
Room Hire
The Unions rooms are available for private hire by Members at discounted
rates. Please contact events@oxford-union.org for more details.
Libraries & Reading Rooms
The Old Library, Poetry Room, Goodman Library and Gladstone
Room all house an extensive catalogue of academic texts from a range
of disciplines, as well as works of fction and political journals. Read
a book or relax in the splendour of these wonderful Victorian rooms.
Purple Turtle Nightclub
Located in the cellars of the Union, the Purple Turtle is the most central
student club in Oxford. When Michael Heseltine was President in 1954,
he had the coal cellars converted into a bar and music venue. Entry is
free to all Union Members and the PT is open every day, providing
Members with the cheapest late-night venue in town.
The Union Bar
57
Open all week
Members 25% Discount
Drinks Deals
Cocktail Menu
Shooters
Snacks, Sandwiches, Panini, Salads, Hot Mains, Pizza & more...
Look out for our Pimms & Jazz and Cocktail events this term!
Open late until 2.00am on Thurs, Fri & Sat
The Libraries
58
The Main Collection
The Union Library remains one of Oxfords largest lending
libraries. It is unique in being the only student-run library in
Oxford where you, the Members, decide what to purchase. As
such the Library is a valuable resource. Our up-to-date collections
and beautiful surroundings make it one of the fnest places to
work in Oxford.
The Union Library is distinctive in having a large collection of
travel books, including many volumes of Lonely Planet and
Rough Guides. There is also an extensive fction section that
you can borrow from during term time or to take with you on
holiday.
DVDs
The DVD collection (found in the Library Reception) offers the
widest selection of any library in the University. Any of these
DVDs can be borrowed at a cost of 1.50 for 3 days. We have a
broad range of DVDs chosen by the Members, ranging from the
latest The Inbetweeners flm to classics such as The Shawshank
Redemption and TV series like The West Wing.
Adopt a Book
Many of the historic books which the Union has been collecting
since the 19th century are now in desperate need of repair and
conservation. If you are interested in helping, please feel free
to speak to the incredibly friendly library staff about adopting
a book or visit www.oxford-union.org/library/adopt-a-book. By
securing the future of our collections you will become part of the
great unfolding history of a world famous institution.
59
From the Librarian
Our committed library staff work tirelessly
to ensure that your Library is as relevant,
useful and easy to use as possible.
Library Committee is the driving force
of the Library and it does its utmost to
ensure that the Library functions as best
as possible.
Library Committee meets once a week to discuss, amongst other things,
book and DVD requests. This allows the Library to continue to meet
the changing demands of students and we are always looking for new
people to get involved. It is your chance to have your say in how the
Library functions!
If you would like to get involved and sit on Library Committee please
email me on librarian@oxford-union.org.
Regarding individual speakers, my team and I have worked hard to bring
you a diverse line-up of fantastic speakers including Nelly Furtado, Bill
Nighy, Geri Halliwell, Teddy Sherringham and many more. However,
you will notice that a few of the speakers timings are still to be
confrmed. As soon as I am certain of these timings I will let you know
via our mailing list.
I hope you enjoy Trinity term and encourage you all
to ballot and meet the speakers.

Dean Palmer
Jesus College
Librarian
The Treasury
Maria Rioumine
Christ Church
Treasurer
60
Dear Members,
I hope you are looking forward to what promises to be a fantastic Trinity term! The
Treasury team and I have worked hard over the vacation to put together new and
improved Members offers, exciting debate foor prizes, an engaging Law discussion
forum and major sponsorship agreements to ensure you get the best value from your
membership.
My team and I have brought you seven new exclusive Members-only deals at a wide
variety of businesses across Oxford. We have made sure these Treasurers Treats, in
addition to our many existing deals, are above and beyond normal student offers. Please
see the adjacent page or the website for further details.
This term our foor prizes, awarded to those in the audience who make the best speeches
during our weekly Debates, include generous prizes from LA Fitness, Lush, Matthew
Clulee Salon, Shezan Restaurant and The Randolph.
I have aimed to focus on long-term sustainability and all-round development for the
Union. This term, we have brought you the former President of Samsung, established
an Alumni Network and, for the frst time in the Unions history, secured substantial
sponsorship for the Access Scheme, which provides students with discounted
memberships. This unprecedented achievement means we will be able to give you
better events and even more for your money.
As Treasurer, I am responsible for the maintenance of the buildings, facilities and
the Societys fnances. The Union is a fantastic place, but there is always room for
improvement. The best way for this to happen is for you,
the Members, to get involved. If you have any feedback,
suggestions or are interested in getting involved, please
email me at treasurer@oxford-union.org. I wish you all a
great Trinity!
Yours,
Treasurers Treats
the OxfOrd UniOn
Treasurers Treats
Discount for Members here
61
Oxford Sandwich Co. 10% off
Queens Lane Coffee
House and QL Deli &
Sandwich Bar
Ask 20% off
Cowley
Verde 20% off
Indulge Dessert Parlour 10% off
Bar Milano Free hire for private
parties & any house
cocktails for 2.95
Tick Tock Cafe 10% off

Park End
Duke of Cambridge Happy Hour prices
Sun-Thurs
Que Pasa 20% off food
2-for-1 cocktails
before 9PM
The Living Room 40% off before
5PM Mon-Fri
Jericho
Manos Caf 10% off food
Phoenix Cinema 2-for-1 tickets on
Union Tuesdays
Raouls 30% off between
4PM and 8PM
Below you can fnd a list of businesses around
Oxford in which your Union card will save you
money. From Pieminister to the Phoenix Cinema,
the Duke of Cambridge to G&Ds, just fash
your card to make the most of your membership.
Look out for the adjacent sign in participating
businesses. Enjoy!
Covered Market
Alpha Bar 10% off
Michels Crperie 10% off
Pieminister Free peas with a
student meal
Bolitas Buy bag of 6 & get
Brazilian Guarana
can free
Sof de France 10% off (15% off if
you spend more than
10)
Oxford Souvenirs 15% off
Ricardos Free hot drink with
every baguette
purchased

City Centre
EAT Free coffee when
you spend 5
Fudge Kitchen Double Stamps
Art Cafe 10% off
Heroes Cafe Free cake with any
sandwich
The House Happy Hour prices
before 11PM
La Croissanterie 20% off
Mr Simms 10% off
Kebab Kid 15% off
Vaults & Garden Caf 20% off
Shakespeares Oxford 15% off
G&Ds 10% off
Timson 15% off
La Baguette 10% off
Coconut Espresso Bar 15% off
15% off (5
minimum spend)
Competitive Debating
62
The Oxford Union always has been, and remains,
one of the most successful debating societies in the
world. Outside of the confnes of the Union Chamber
our competitive debaters are the current English and
European champions and so far this year Union teams
have reached the fnal of almost every competition we
have entered, including the World Championships.
External Tournaments
The Union pays to send teams and judges to competitions
all over Britain and Europe almost every single week. This
means that there are always opportunities to debate for
Oxford and, with a novice quota for every single squad,
never having tried debating before should defnitely not
be a barrier to taking part! In addition, Oxford Union
debaters are frequently given the opportunity to travel
the world. Already this year debaters have been invited
to speak in places such as China, Malaysia and India and
later this year we will be sending people to Serbia for the
European Championships.
Internal Tournaments
In addition to all the amazing external opportunities, the
Union runs several competitions a year some of them
for its members, and some of them to help raise money
for debating.
This term we will be holding our open pairs competition.
This gives you the opportunity to speak with whomever
you want and compete against other pairs! This
competition takes place every week at 7.30pm after
workshops.
63
ICYD
In May the Union will host the fnal of the International
Competition for Young Debaters. This is a competition
aimed at under 15s, run by a number of universities and
organised centrally through Oxford.
Oxstrals
This Summer we plan to hold Oxstrals organised by our
very own Australian Tom Hosking! This is a competition
held in the Australian style of debating, with three people
in a team and just one team on each side of the debate.
Oxstrals will bring university debaters from all over the
country.
Sunday Night Workshops
Every Sunday night during term, at 6.30pm in the
Goodman library we run coaching workshops. This is
an opportunity for debaters of all levels to hone their
debating and public speaking skills, with the opportunity
to be trained by some of the best debaters in the world!
All are welcome so just show up and join in!
To be updated on anything to do with competitive debating
sign up to our Debate Announce Mailing List, by sending
a blank email to debate-announce-subscribe@maillist.
ox.ac.uk, or email the Chairman of the Debates Selection
Committee, Georgie Barker, at georgina.barker@st-
hughs.ox.ac.uk
consulTaTive Committee
liBrary Committee
finance Committee
sTanDing Committee
64
Mondays, 1.15pm, Gladstone Room
Every Member is automatically part of this committee. Its your chance to ask the
offcers about their work, hear updates on whats going on and vote on the weeks
Emergency Debate motion.
Chaired by Samuel Lin, New College, CCC
Mondays, 2.30 pm, Morris Room
All new library books and DVDs are
chosen by this committee. Any Member can
apply to sit on the committee by emailing
librarian@oxford-union.org.
Chaired by Dean Palmer, Jesus College,
Librarian
Mondays, 4.00pm, Presidents Offce
Responsible for scrutinising termly, annual and event budgets and reporting its
fndings to Standing Committee. Three Members are elected by Consultative
Committee on Monday 2nd Week. To apply, email ro@oxford-union.org.
Chaired by Isabel Ernst, St Catherines College, President
How the Union Works
We encourage all Members to attend or get involved in any of these committees
and welcome questions concerning their work.
Mondays, 5.00pm, Presidents Offce
The Unions governing body. Standing Committee makes all major decisions
about the running of the Society and over sees the work of all the other committees.
Chaired by Isabel Ernst, St Catherines College, President
sTanDing Committee
DeBaTes selecTion Committee
Wines anD spiriTs Committee
access Committee
65
We encourage all Members to attend or get involved in any of these committees
and welcome questions concerning their work.
Mondays, 5.00pm, Presidents Offce
The Unions governing body. Standing Committee makes all major decisions
about the running of the Society and over sees the work of all the other committees.
Chaired by Isabel Ernst, St Catherines College, President
Ad Hoc (twice termly)
If alcohol and fnancial management are your passions, Wines and Spirits
Committee is for you. The committee determines what alcohol the bar stocks and
how much it will cost. To apply email secretary@oxford-union.org.
Chaired by Jocelyn Poon, University College, Secretary
Ad Hoc (twice termly)
Meetings are twice a term and discuss
Access for Members to events and elections.
Chaired by Angus Barry, Worcester College
& Yara Rodrigues Fowler, Wadham
College, Co-Access Offcers
Sundays, 5.00pm, Gladstone Room
Made up of Oxfords best debaters, this committees primary duty is to select
Members to represent the Union at debating competitions. It also organises
internal competitions and promotes debating in Oxford.
Chaired by Georgie Barker, St Hughs College, CDSC
How to Get Involved
66
Run for a Position
Most of the Unions positions are
allocated by election each term, held on
Friday 7th Week. This term there will
be elections for the following positions:
President HT13, Librarian HT13,
Treasurer HT13, Secretary MT12,
fve elected members of the Standing
Committee MT12 and eleven members
of the Secretarys Committee MT12.
All help with the running of the Union but involve different responsibilities.
If you are interested in running for one of the above positions,
follow these 4 stages:
1) Qualify
To run for any position you must have spoken in the Chamber during one of
the stages of the weekly Debate. For Secretarys Committee you must have
made TWO speeches, for any other position you must have made FOUR
speeches. Speeches must be made on different nights and can be made in any
of the Main Debates, preceding Emergency Debates or After Debates.
2) Nominate
Nominations open at 9.30am on Friday 5th Week and close at 3.00pm on
Friday 6th Week. Nomination packs can be picked up from the General
Offce once nominations open and explain everything you need to do to put
forward your application.
3) Help out
Before the election the candidates must help the Returning Offcer by distrib-
uting manifesto booklets and putting up posters.
4) Vote
Dont forget to vote in the elections this term.
Join a Committee
If you want to get involved without running for election you can apply to
become a member of any of the Unions other committees: Library Committee,
Wines and Spirits Committee, Finance Committee and Access Committee.
To apply, get in contact with the respective committees chairperson. If a
vacancy opens up your nomination will then be proposed to the Committee.
See the How the Union Works section (pages 62-63) for more information.
How to Get Involved Session
(Tuesday 15th May, 4th Week, 5.00pm)
Come along to have all of your questions answered by the Access Offcers
and some of the committee over drinks and nibbles.
Apply for an Appointed Position
Apply to the President-Elect by the end of 7th Week. Interviews will then be
held with the President-Elect and the successful appointments will be ratifed
by the Standing Committee.
Become a Deputy Returning Offcer (DRO)
The Returning Offcer (RO) needs plenty of help to make sure everything
runs smoothly for the Societys elections on Friday 7th Week. You can apply
to become a DRO by emailing the President (president@oxford-union.org)
before 3.00pm on Monday 2nd Week. The RO is elected by the DROs.
Any Questions?
If you have any questions about how to get involved, the President
(president@oxford-union.org), the President-Elect (president-elect@oxford-
union.org) and the Returning Offcer (ro@oxford-union.org) will be happy to
talk to you. There are copies of the Unions election rules available in the Old
Library and the General Offce, or you can fnd them on the Union website.
67
68
Committee and Staff
PRES I DENT
LI BRARI AN
TREAS URER
SECRETARY
PRES I DENT- ELECT
LI BRARI AN- ELECT
TREAS URER- ELECT
EX- PRES I DENTS

EX- LI BRARI AN
EX- TREAS URERS
EX- SECRETARI ES
ELECTED MEMBERS
Isabel Ernst, St Catherines College
Dean Palmer, Jesus College
Maria Rioumine, Christ Church
Jocelyn Poon, University College
John Lee, Hertford College
Rajiv Dattani, St Annes College
Joseph DUrso, New College
Laura Winwood, Hertford College
James Kingston, Christ Church
James Langman, University College
Ashvir Sangha, The Queens College
Izzy Westbury, Hertford College
Lauren Pringle, Wadham College
Luke Eaton, Jesus College
Cyrus Nasseri, Exeter College
James Freeland, Brasenose College
Hannah Tryl, Christ Church
Miles Coates, Worcester College
James Bradford, Jesus College
Parit Wacharasindhu, St Johns College
Helen Elmer, St Hildas College
Nico Hobhouse, Trinity College
Chris Starkey, St Catherines College
sTanDing commiTTee
69
secreTarys commiTTee
Andrew Rogers, Jesus College
Polina Ivanova, University College
Liz Culliford, St Hildas College
Monish Kulkarni, Lincoln College
Charlie Cockburn, New College
Chris Frost, Oriel College
William Round, Brasenose College
Richard Foord, Hertford College
Plato So, St Hughs College
Varun Sivaram, St Johns College
Nick Mutch, Christ Church
memBers of sTaff
Lindsey Warne
Bridget Gaughan
Su Lockley
Melissa Blake
Natacha Bryan
Melanie Roberts
Jeremy Worth, Keble College
Graeme Hall, OILP
Ceri Matthews
BURS AR
HOUS E MANAGER
LI BRARI AN- I N- CHARGE
EVENTS MANAGER
ACCOUNTS MANAGER
OF F I CE SECRETARY
I T OF F I CER
ARCHI VI S T
HEAD BARP ERS ON
All photos of the Oxford Union buildings Barker Evans.
All speaker photographs Eddie Gallacher or Jessica Goodman.
CHAI RMAN OF CC
CHAI RMAN OF DSC
RETURNI NG OF F I CER
SENI OR LI BRARI AN
SENI OR TREAS URER
Samuel Lin, New College
Georgie Barker, St Hughs College
Yotam Levy, St Cross College
Rev Dr Robert Tobin, Oriel College
Mr Stephen Dixon, Downing College (Cambridge)
70
Appointed Offcials
PRES S OF F I CERS

PUBLI CI TY OF F I CER
MEDI A OF F I CER
ACCES S OF F I CERS
GRADUATE OF F I CERS
BROOKES REP RES ENTATI VE
CHI EF OF STAF F
GUES T LI AI S ON OF F I CERS
CHI EF LI NE CROS S ER
SELF - PROCLAI MED QUEEN
OF LAS H
HI GH PRI ES TES S
GURU
GLI DE AMBAS S ADOR
PRES I DENT S 1S T CHEF

Zoya Rous, Wadham College
Abrar Nurani, Hertford College
Annette Chau, Lady Margaret Hall
Jonathan Dunbar

Yara Rodrigues Fowler, Wadham College
Angus Barry, Worcester College
Timothy Kenny, Green Templeton College
Rakhi Voria, Linacre College
Robert Sargeant, Oxford Brookes
William Arthur, Worcester College
Mark Greaves, Jesus College
Neslihan Yildirim, St Edmund Hall
Suhan Rajkumar, Hertford College
Samir Pasha, Wolfson College
Luke Eaton, Ex-Librarian, Jesus College
Lauren Pringle, Ex-President, Wadham College
Molly Scott, University College
Sarah Dicker, University College
Zoe Lang, Universtiy College
Beth McDonald, University College
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All members of committee have signed this code of conduct. If you know
of a breach by any committee member, please email ro@oxford-union.org.
Being a committee member of the Oxford Union is time consuming and hard work for
which committee members volunteered when they submitted their nomination for election.
There are many benefts of being on committee and so its members have a duty to fulfl the
responsibilities to the Union that come with those benefts. Therefore:
commiTTee memBers shoulD alWays:
1. Attend the committees of which they are a member or send apologies in the
exceptional circumstances where they cannot attend.
2. Do their utmost to honour the pledges they made in their manifestos.
3. Act with integrity and professionalism in their roles, so as not to endanger the
reputation of the Union.
4. Support the Unions core activities by attending its Debates and as many other
events as they are able to.
5. Promote the interests and reputation of the Union by encouraging others to join and
attend committees and events.
6. Work to ensure the Members get value for money from their membership.
7. Uphold the aims and values of the Oxford Union (as defned by Rule 2a) in all their
work on committee.
8. Be polite to their colleagues on committee, to the staff, to any Guests of the Society
and to Members of the Society.
9. Be mindful of the Societys history and do their best to live up to that history.
commiTTee memBers shoulD never:
1. Advertise an event without believing in good faith that the event will go ahead.
2. Place an unwarranted workload on another member of committee.
3. Exploit their membership of committee for personal gain at the expense of the
Members.
4. Place electoral interest ahead of the interest of the Society and its Members.
5. Take credit for the work of others on committee.
6. Spread misinformation about the work of others on committee.
7. Knowingly mislead any committee, the Chamber, or distort or, exaggerate the truth
in any form for any reason.
They agree To:
1. Complete at least the minimum number of vacation days required for their position,
and work hard for eight hours during each of those days.
2. Familiarise themselves with the rules of the Society and always work within their
boundaries.
3. Always act as an ambassador for the Society, never behaving in a way which could
bring the Society into disrepute.

Code of Conduct
72
Presidents Thanks
Even though I always knew writing this would be incredibly diffcult (and rather cringe), I guess I never
expected to actually get so sentimental. There really are too many people to thank to ft on these two pages.
I feel so lucky and grateful for all the support I had over the last two years and I can only apologise for not
thanking people enough and for missing those who undoubtedly deserve to be mentioned.
My Committee: Thank you so much for putting up with me over the holidays. I know it cannot have been easy
to deal with my mood swings. You were all absolutely incredible and I am so proud of what we have achieved.
Dean: Thank you for all the long hours. Im sorry for pushing you so hard but Im glad it paid off. Maria: It
took you long enough but thank you for giving me and this intimate relationship a chance. Im really grateful
for your trust and all your incredible help- our love truly is everlasting! I cant wait for you to marry into my
family and many more dates at Ginos to come. Jocelyn: Thank you for bringing cupcakes and rainbows into
my life. And Im sorry about mean Thai celebrities on committee. John: Good luck for next term, Im sure it
will be great! Rajiv: What can I say. Dude, you need to learn how to chill! I am so glad it all worked out and
you dont regret trusting me. And dont forget: Itll all be fne.:) Joey: Schni, Schna, Schnappi...Thanks for
giving the vac a theme by constantly putting this in my ear and for the amazing chilli meals. Bradders: My
little Grumpy Bear; so happy the dreamteam got reunited- what would Trinity be without Lashford being all
laddish? Parit: Thank you for all the new treats. Sorry for crossing the line between banter and harassment.
Though you had it coming.;) Helen: Thank you for all the amazing blurbs. Nico: At some point you will get
your date..maybe... Starkey: My baby, youre a star! Seriously thank you for all the long hours. Mind the gin
next term!;) Andrew: Thank you for all your hard work in the Libs offce. Polina: Anyone who calls you
teachers pet is just jealous. Im so impressed! Seriously, I didnt realise German effciency could also be found
in Russia. Liz: Sorry about the boys. Theyre all just secretly in love with you (one in particular...). Charlie:
Team Chuckles all the way! Will: Seriously, no more pranks this term! My heart cant take it. Chris: Happy
18th! Monish, Richard, Plato: Thank you for your hard work boys. Hope youll enjoy the term. Varun: Thank
you for the proofreading. Mutch: in is in; Ill make sure there will be plenty of chillies at pressie drinks this
term.
Union: Lauren: Quite simply, I couldnt have done it without you. Literally. You effectively won the presidency
twice and I will never be able to thank you enough for being my rock through everything. I really couldnt have
asked for a better friend to guide me through this madness. Hamburg is still waiting for us abes! Luke: My
dearest babyhack. You know Im eternally grateful for everything youve done for me and sticking by my side
all the way. Never forget how amazing you are. Youll even learn where the line is eventually. Jack: How did
you ever manage to put up with me last Hilary? I would have never made it through without your unshakeable
optimism. Thank you for being such a great friend. Lester: I should have stolen you from Beth whilst I still
could (damn you Cradick;)). Thank you for putting up with my Union chat for so long. Chambers: Thank you
for getting me excited about the Union when I was still clueless. And my debates will totally be packed! Rishi:
Mon amour. Thank you for always making me laugh. Ash S.: My Union-Dad. Thank you for taking me out for
coffee for the very frst time. Miles and Freeland: Im glad I never had to go up against the hydra. Who could
have ever beaten this overwhelming electoral mandate? Izzy W.: It really was all in the name, wasnt it. Thanks
for being a brilliant President (despite the endless Stornoway playlists) and leaving big shoes to fll. Ash T.:
Not gonna lie, you scare me sometimes. Thank you for just being you and for giving me a home last summer.
Cyrus: Mate, committee is showing a serious lack of velvet jackets, banter and outrageous firtation these days.
Looks like you need to teach the little champignons a lesson. Langman: Thank you for all your support. I guess
I didnt hate you after all, just your chat. Ella: Thank you for your help during the vac babe. Sorry about me
73
being generally freaked-out and panicked. Nina: Wie haben wir es nur bis hierher geschafft? Prost! Rahul: Did
we ever get round to fnishing our series of crapulousness? Towers, Colin: You guys would have deserved to go
further in this place. Thank you for always giving it your all. Hannah: Thank you for all the girl power last HT!
Bassett: Thank you for all your help. The Staff & Senior Offcers: Needless to say that this place would fall
apart without you. I have no idea how you put up with us every day but thank you for all your patience and the
endless support. I know we dont appreciate it enough. Bursar: I will try to survive the end of the day.
Team Ernst: Im so sorry for abandoning you half-way through. Believe me, it really wasnt my plan. Becky:
The Union has lost some real competence with you. I hope you have no regrets, I certainly am glad to have
had the chance to get to know you. Ali: xxxxxxx Rob N.: I still havent forgiven you for choosing OUSU over
me- who would ever do that? Tom, Henry, Viraj, Mairie, Madeleine, Ollie: Thank you for giving it a go and
believing in our team.
Molly, Zoe, Beth, Sarah- Thank you for taking me in girls, I couldnt have asked for better housemates! Its
only been three months but I feel like Im already part of the gang and totally up to date with Univs juiciest
fnalist gossip (wait, yeeeah, this annoying guy in the library) Sorry in advance about the many late nights to
come, Ill try not to eat too much of your ham. My life is just too adventurous.
Catz: Sorry for being a pain in the ass on Friday of 7th again and again and again. Needless to say that I couldnt
have done it without you guys. Thank you for putting up with me and giving me the feeling I could be proud
of what I have achieved in this place- even though it meant neglecting you. Ali- Thank you for always taking
care of me, I know Im a bit of a nutcase. Camilla- Thank you for being such an amazing friend. Dont get too
stressed this term! Emma- Im sorry I couldnt always keep up with your raving party lifestyle. Ill be on it
next year, promise! Izzy P.D.- so good to have you back my dear. Next year Ill be all yours. Rob: Im sorry
Ive deserted you for fnals but lets be honest, its not like I would have been a big help with revision anyways.
Thank you for teaching me proper English and saving me time after time in painful tutorials. Tom: My dear
husband, thank you for listening to my endless drama last year. Its time for you to come back! Margherita:
Tausend Dank fr die zahlreichen Mahlzeiten, Massagen und aufbauenden Worte! Caroline: Meine Kleine.
Vergiss nicht, das Leben ist wunderbar. Nathalie, Annelise, Ellie, Vicky: Thank you for all your support ladies.
It really meant a lot to me.
Home: Es tut mir wahnsinnig Leid, dass ich euch so schrecklich vernachlssigt habe in den letzten zwei Jahren.
Ich wrde gerne sagen, es kommt nie wieder vor, aber wir wissen alle, das wre gelogen. Shari: My Loof. Egal,
ob alles andere in sich zusammenfllt, du bist immer fr mich da. Ich kann mir ein Leben ohne dich wahrlich
nicht vorstellen, auch wenn wir unsere Dates meist zwei Monate vorher planen mssen. Unser Ramazotti-
Plan steht! Maarielein: Was wrde ich nur ohne dich tun, meine liebste Geburstagsschwester. Danke fr die
unzhligen Therapiestunden und dass du mich gelehrt hast, wieder an mich zu glauben. Cyrie: Danke, dass du
immer ehrlich bist. Auch wenn ich es nicht hren will. Care to join Shari und mich auf unserer Weltreise? Hella,
Samy: Ihr verrckten Hhner. Ohne euch wre mein Leben um einiges langweiliger.
Basti: Bruderherz! Ohne dich wr ich gar nicht erst nach Ox gekommen. Ganz geil sag ich nur. High Five an
die Palazze. Mami & Papi: Diese paar Zeilen reichen bei weitem nicht aus, um zu beschreiben, wie dankbar ich
fr eure stndige, bedingungslose Untersttzung bin. Egal, wie verrckt meine Ideen auch sein mgen, ihr steht
immer hinter mir. Ich hoffe, ihr seid stolz auf mich.
Right, enough with the sentiment. Or I might even fnd a tear in my eye.
74
Whos Who?
Isabel Ernst
President
Maria Rioumine
Treasurer
Jocelyn Poon
Secretary
Dean Palmer
Librarian
Rajiv Dattani
Librarian-Elect
Joseph DUrso
Treasurer-Elect
John Lee
President-Elect
STANDI NG COMMI TTEE
James Bradford Parit Wacharasindhu Helen Elmer Nico Hobhouse Chris Starkey
William Round Richard Foord Plato So Varun Sivaram Nick Mutch
Andrew Rogers Polina Ivanova Monish Kulkarni Charlie Cockburn Chris Frost
Liz Culliford
SECRETARY S COMMI TTEE