Reform UK banned by Bangor uni students' debating society

A DEBATING society based at Bangor University has refused a request by Reform UK to hold a question-and-answer session with students.

- By OWEN HUGHES Chief Reporter [e-mail]

The Bangor Debating & Political Society is the oldest student society in Wales, founded in 1849.

It says it is home for students who love to “challenge ideas, explore diverse perspectives, and master the art of persuasion”.

But it has put out a statement confirming it had refused a request from Jack Anderton and Sarah Pochin MP of Reform UK to meet and debate with students.

The group - which is run by students through the independent Students' Union - said they had “zero tolerance for any form of racism, transphobia, or homophobia displayed by the members of Reform UK”.

But independent Bangor councillor and free speech advocate Nick Pritchard said he was “shocked and saddened” by the decision and that he feared for the future of political debate in the country.

The society said: “The Debating & Political Society received a request from Jack Anderton and Sarah Pochin MP of Reform UK to attend Bangor University and give a Q&A to students. In line with our values, this request was refused.