Four Nations Debating Tournament held in Bristol

Between 20 and 23 April the ESU held the first ever Four Nations Debating Tournament between the national schools debating teams of England, Ireland, Scotland and Wales who will compete in Cardiff at the WSDC this July. Three preliminary rounds were held at schools and public locations in Bristol, each on an impromptu topic. There was a strong emphasis on analysis motions, an element of World Schools with which British Isles teams are often relatively unfamiliar.

The debates and results were as follows, with the number of judges each team won in brackets:

Round 1: This House believes that the best way for countries to reduce their carbon dioxide emissions is to create systems of tradable pollution permits
-England (2) beat Ireland (1)
-Scotland (1) beat Wales (0)

Round 2: This House believes that feminism has failed
-England (3) beat Scotland (0)
-Ireland (1) beat Wales (0)

Round 3: This House believes that pre-emptive military action is a justified tool of foreign policy
-Wales (0) were beaten by England (1)
-Scotland (0) were beaten by Ireland (3)

The final was held in the British Empire and Commonwealth Museum, on the topic:
This House believes that Africa's current problems are legacy of its colonial past
-England (3) beat Ireland (0)

The ESU would like to thank Sarah Monroe (England), Nick Pacheco (Bermuda) and Dick Wafer (Ireland) for judging; and Cotham School for hosting Round 3 and providing refreshments.

Congratulations to all teams taking part, all of whom were at different stages in their preparation for the World Championships.

posted by James Probert @ 1:01 PM |