I'm currently having a very busy week, but I'm very glad that my schedule tomorrow includes an invitation to take part in a debate at Hereford Sixth Form College.
The motion for the debate is the following, "This House believes that it is time for the UK to withdraw from the EU".
My opposition speaker for the day will be Christine Tinker, who is representing the European Movement. She also stood for the Liberal Democrats in Stone at the last General Election.The European Movement, for anybody who doesn't know, is a pro-European Campaigning organisation.
Taken from their website:
"The European Movement is Britain's pro-European campaigning organisation. It argues that the European Union should become more democratic, effective and accountable, and that Britain should play a full role in reforming and developing the EU.
The European Movement has a range of activities, including the following:
Education information for schools and universities
Media briefings for journalists, to correct mistakes and counter anti-European bias
Politics we challenge Britain's political leaders to put the pro-European case
Business information for companies about the benefits and opportunities of Europe
Local branches European Movement groups are active throughout the UK
Conferences events for members for debate and discussion
Publications the latest thinking and argument about Europe, in print and online
Young European Movement an independent youth and student campaign with activities throughout Europe
European Movement International an international pro-European network, active in more than 40 countries
The European Movement is funded entirely by membership subscriptions and private donations. It receives no money from the British Government, from political parties, or from the European Union or any of its institutions (the Council, the Commission, or the European Parliament)."
Escaping from the office and interacting with my constituents is one of the best things about this job, if not the best.
I have previously taken part in debates, and particularly enjoy visiting schools and colleges, helping to inform students about the European Union and shape opinions on the matter in hand.
