This House Would Abolish the Monarchy

The traditions and powers associated with the British Monarchy have been interlinked with British governance, economics and culture for almost 1000 years. The monarchy have ruled through crisis and wartime for generations, and continue to serve for over 56 independent countries as the leaders of the Commonwealth. Was their time as leaders of this and other nations a success for themselves and those they serve, or rather is it marred by a historical abuse of power and an irrelevance to modern society? Joining us on the Proposition: Graham Smith: Chief Executive of Republic UK. Ken Ritchie: Founder of Labour for a Republic and former Labour Councillor with a history of publishing Republican and Anti-Monarchy literature. Joining us on the Opposition: Michael Cole: Former BBC Royal Correspondent, who covered key events such as the death of Princess Diana. Richard Fitzwilliams: Royal Commentator and Press Consultant for the Royal Society of Portrait Painters. This debate is WELCOME FOR ALL members of the Exeter University Community - no need to have debating society membership! Student ID may be requested upon entry to the venue.