ESU NewsTHE ENGLISH-SPEAKING UNION Creating global understanding through English

ISSUE No. 131 MAY 2007

Telephone : 020 7529 1550 Fax : 020 7495 6108 Email : esu@esu.org Web : www.esu.org

Alumni Share Experiences

The Great Shakespeare DebateFor the second year in a row the ESU teamed upwith The Shakespeare Birthplace Trust to run theGreat Shakespeare Debate. Building upon thesuccess of last year's event, the competition wasexpanded to allow 24 teams of A-level studentsfrom as far afield as Northumberland and Devonto come to Stratford-Upon-Avon to compete forthe coveted title.

The students were introduced to the ESU's debateformat through a display debate and workshopsdelivered by the ESU's team of university studentmentors, who also judged the rounds. As well as this expert guidance the students were givenlectures by Shakespeare specialists, such asProfessor Stanley Wells, Dr Paul Edmondson and Professor Kate McCluskie, who were ablyassisted by a team of Warwick University students studying Shakespeare.

Continued on page 3.

More than 100 distinguished guests, including politicians, musicians and broadcasters, turned out atDartmouth House, at the end of March, for the English-Speaking Union's All Alumni Reunion. TheAlumni Association Committee was represented by Brian Marsh (SSE Scholar) and Jenni Hibbert(Capitol Hill Scholar). ESU Chairman, Lord Hunt, who was celebrating his 40th anniversary as a USDebating Tour Alumnus, welcomed the guests along with ESU Director-General, Valerie Mitchell.Alumni, past and present, from a wide range of ESU programmes included Dr Tasmin Little, (Menhuin Banff Music Scholar), Sir John Birch (SSE) and Lady Birch, Sir Ian Blair, (SSE) and LadyBlair, Lord Lamont, (US Debating Tour), The Rt Hon Michael Howard, (US Debating Tour) andAndrew Fraser (SSE).

Continued on page 2.

(L-R) Alison Wardrop,Brian Marsh, Jenni Hibbert and The Rt Hon The LordHunt of Wirral

The winning team from King Edward VI Five Ways

ContentsAlumni Reunion . . . . . . . . .1

Shakespeare Debate . . . . .1

Alumni Reunion cont'd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .2

Shakespeare Debate cont'd . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .3

Lord Hunt Visit . . . . . . . . .3

France Anniversary . . . . . .4

US Debate Tour . . . . . . . . .5

Refugee Debating . . . . . . .5

SSE Interviews and Tour . . . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Why We Need English . . . .6

Moreheads Announced . . . . . . . . . . . .6

Memorial Concert . . . . . . .7

Donald Hawley Lecture . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .7

Pilgrims Literary Lunch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Lord Watson in Russia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

International at Home . . . . . . . . . . . . . .8

Hugo Vickers Lunch . . . . .9

New Face . . . . . . . . . . . . .9

Moldova Launch . . . . . . . .9

Economics Debate . . . . .10

Commonwealth Day . . . .10

Lord Watson Book Launch . . . . . . . . . . . . . .11

Diary Dates . . . . . . . . . . .12

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Alumni Reception continued

Alison Wardrop, newly appointed ESU Alumni Officer, opened proceedings by emphasising the impact such programmes havehad on ESU Alumni both British and American. Having worked forthe ESU on both sides of the Atlantic, Alison has seen how thelives of Alumni have been improved by the experiences they havegained. She said that her aim was to see the Alumni Associationcontinue to grow and flourish, so that it is able to support ESU programmes and make a very definite contribution to their progressand development.

Jenni Hibbert, Capitol Hill Alumna and ESU Governor, talked abouther experiences as a beneficiary of the Capitol Hill programme. Shealso encouraged her fellow Alumni to pledge their support to aidthe future of the continuation of ESU programmes.

She said: “There was a lively mix of Alumni, from those who are well know public figures such as Sir Ian Blair and MichaelHoward, to those who are still enjoying our programmes and arestill studying. Over 100 attendees were more than keen to stay onand mingle and there was a real buzz as Alumni swapped stories and got to know each other.”

Lord Hunt, Debating Tour Alumnus and ESU Chairman, rounded offthe speeches. He told the assembled guests of his wish to giveback to the ESU and that his work for the charity was a way ofcontributing to an organisation from which he felt he had benefitedso much.

The evening was highly enjoyable for all who attended.

'What a splendid Reception at the ESU for all the past Scholars!It was a joy to meet so many enthusiastic people, confirming for

me the huge allround value of theseScholarships. Thankyou to everyoneinvolved in arrangingsuch a successfuloccasion.'Sheila Fowler-Watt,the first female SSEscholar.

'My year as an ESUExchange Student atRiverdale CountrySchool in New Yorkmade a vivid and life long impression.My love of the USremains as strong asever. How good itwas to meet so manycontemporaries and friends at theReunion and to knowthat the programmehas flourished allthese years'Sir John Birch, SSE Scholar.

(L-R) Martin Skan, Roderick Chamberlain and Sir Ian Blair

Dr Vijay Parmar and Lord Lamont

Penny Hamilton and John Fingleton

Sir John Birch (left)

Alistair Goddard and Dr Tasmin Little

The Rt Hon Michael Howard

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The Great Shakespeare Debate continued

Over three preliminary rounds, the teams debated about issues todo with Shakespeare and his plays. The first round covered topicsspecific to their A-Level set texts, such as This House believes thatRichard III should have got away with it and This House believesthat the ending of The Tempest was unsatisfactory.

In preparation for the second round the students were all taken to see the Royal Shakespeare Company's new production ofCoriolanus, before debating the motion This House prefers towatch Coriolanus on TV, rather than on the stage.

In the penultimate debate of the event the students were calledupon to argue the merits of Shakespeare's tragedies over his comedies in a thrilling final preliminary round.

The competition culminated in a gala Grand Final event in whichstudents from North London Collegiate School debated against King

Edward VI Five Ways on the motion This House believes it is perfectly acceptable to rewrite Shakespeare. Judged by theFinancial Times' theatre critic, Alistair Macaulay, and two of thestudent mentors, Andrew Marshall (from Oxford University) andRebecca Allen (from the University of Warwick) the debate swungback and forth, entertaining the large crowd.

Richard Robinson, Anna Fox and Benjamin Mulvihill from KingEdward VI Five Ways won the debate and were awarded theGeorge Pragnell Silver Plate, based on a design from the wreckageof the Spanish Armada. Two other students were singled out fortheir own individual achievements throughout the competition:Chris Greenwood from Ermysted's Grammar School won a prize for his outstanding theatrical presentation skills, whilst ClaireJohnstone from Tunbridge Wells Girls' Grammar School was recognised for her knowledge of Shakespeare. All the prizes werepresented by Sir Donald Sinden, one of the 20th century's greatestShakespearean actors.

This event would not have been possible without the generous support of the ESU's branches in Birmingham, Colchester,Cambridge Wellands Valley, Exeter, Gloucestershire, London,Metropolitan Essex, Northumberland, Tunbridge Wells andWorcestershire. To all those who contributed we extend a big 'thank you'.

‘It was a wonderful opportunity to explore our own opinions ofShakespeare and to widen our awareness of others' views.’John Bone, Sophia Nazer, Jennifer Tonkins - students at NewportFree Grammar School

'This is a team who have visited Canada, China, Russia, Italy,South Africa…nothing has brought them more joy than their twodays in Stratford.'Gayle Hamilton Gill, teacher at St Augustine's Priory

Sir Donald with finalists and Alistair Macauley, Valerie Mitchell, Professor Stanley Wells and Dr Paul Edmondson

Lord Hunt Visits Chile and New ZealandIn February, ESU Chairman, Lord Hunt travelled to the SouthernHemisphere where he visited ESU Chile and New Zealand.

He was welcomed in Santiago by John Knagg, Director of theBritish Council and member of ESU Chile. A first-class programmewas organised for Lord and Lady Hunt who enjoyed an excellentguided tour of the City and a visit to the British Council offices, followed by a reception. This was hosted by the BritishAmbassador, HE Mr Howard Drake and Mrs Drake at theResidence of the British Embassy.

Lord Hunt went on to pay a fleeting visit to ESU New Zealand. The British High Commissioner, HE George Fergusson, hosted amorning tea party in the garden of his residence in Karori whichwas attended by over 40 members and supporters of theWellington Branch. It was a perfect summer day and Lord Huntwas able to explain the work and aims of the ESU globally andresponded warmly to questions from members. Later, Lord andLady Hunt were guests at a private luncheon in the executive building of Parliament at the Beehive. Only a little sightseeing was possible and finally, some time for sitting in the sun and enjoying the harbour views with members of the Wellington Branch committee at the Troughton family home before sailing off into the sunset.

Alec Waugh, President of ESU New Zealand, Lord Hunt and JoyceTroughton, Immediate Past President of ESU New Zealand relaxing at the end of Lord Hunt's one day visit to Wellington

4

ESU France Celebrates its 20th Anniversarywith a Glittering Dinner in Paris

ESU members representing five countries, Guests of Honour,Diplomats and Dignitaries, past and current Presidents of the ESUInternational Council and Chairmen representing three Branches inFrance: Paris, Anjou and Strasbourg filled the Jockey Club in Paristo celebrate 20 years of ESU France. When ESU France wasfounded twenty years ago, everyone felt it was remarkable and perhaps unpredictable. Now it seems evident that the ESU shouldbe in France and doing so well.

The Honorary President of ESU France, Monsieur Pierre-ChristianTaittinger, and Madame de Montgermont-Keil, President of ESUFrance, welcomed the Guests of Honour to the Celebration Dinner.ESU countries represented were France, Lebanon, Russia, UK andUSA. Monsieur Taittinger opened the proceedings and paid a tribute to Beatrix Keil who in turn thanked all the members andfriends for supporting this most important event for ESU France.

Brief presentations were made by Mrs Youmna Asseilly, President of the ESU International Council and Chairman ESU Lebanon, andMrs Valerie Mitchell, ESU Director-General, who acknowledged theamazing work and expansion of ESU France since its inception in 1987. She thanked and congratulated Beatrix Keil for her commitment, energy and enthusiasm and above all, her vision in enabling this to happen.

Following the excellent dinner, The Lord Watson of Richmond,Chairman Emeritus of the International Council, gave a mostthought provoking talk on A Tale of Three Cities.

In his speech he explained that to mark this Anniversary, a new initiative would be developed between the three major cities: Paris,London and Washington, and that the ESU would build on whathad already been achieved. He said: “We already organise intern-ships for young people from America to work in the UK Parliamentin London. Young Brits enjoy internships on the Hill in Washington.We have a very limited exchange sending one Brit to work at theAssembleé and a young person from France to work atWestminster. Let us expand this triangular exchange offering theopportunity for young Americans to work in Paris, the French towork on the Hill and the Brits to work in both. Let us then ensurethat these interns share their experiences with the wider ESU afterwards.

“Secondly, we aim to institute a lecture programme in which, oncea year, we invite a speaker to address the ESU in each of thesethree great cities. Our direction is 'global understanding throughEnglish'. Let us take this step in that direction by creating a 'Tale of Three Cities'.”

It was a memorable and spectacular evening. The members whoattended were thrilled and overwhelmed and felt privileged to havebeen part of this most important happening in the life of theEnglish-Speaking Union.

Madame Beatrix Keil and Gunilla Carlbom

Comte Guillaume de Tournemire and Valerie Mitchell

Monsieur Pierre-Christian Taittinger and Madame Elaine Margio, CulturalCounsellor, American Embassy

Lord Watson

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US Debate Team Tours UK

The English-Speaking Union played host to the American NationalDebate Team, which toured the UK for three weeks, in February, aspart of an exchange run by the ESU Centre for Speech and Debate.

Francesca Smith and Gavin Humes, both from Pepperdine University,California, were selected by the Committee for International Debateand Discussion (CIDD) to represent the United States from a poolof hundreds of American university debaters.

The duo's tour covered the length and breadth of the UK and wasdesigned to allow them to experience British debating traditions

and UK culture whilst acting as ambassadors for American-styledebating, and American culture in general.

Highlights included debating at the Oxford Union, attending PrimeMinister's Questions, conducting a debating workshop at MulberrySchool, East London, and participating in various debating tournaments, including the Edinburgh and Cardiff IVs.

The team also took part in the US v UK Debate against the UKNational Debate Team, Fraser Campbell and Gavin Illsley, generously hosted at the American Embassy. The motion was This House envies America's sense of patriotism.

An audience of over 100 people witnessed a world-class standardof debate with the proposing UK team securing a narrow victory.

Director-General Valerie Mitchell, in her closing remarks, extendedthe ESU thanks to the US Embassy and the American School inLondon for their support of the event, to each of the speakers andthe chairperson John Wilson of the American School.

As part of their tour, the US debate team also enjoyed lunch atDartmouth House where they learned more about the ESU Branchsystem from Holly Shakespeare and Don Miller (ESU London Branch).

When asked to comment on her time in the UK, Francesca Smithenthused: “It was truly an unforgettable experience that will last alifetime.”

The Centre would like to express its gratitude to all those whohelped to ensure the success of the tour.

US National Debate Team members Gavin Humes and Francesca Smith

Refugee Debating ProgrammeOver the course of several weekends in January and February the ESU Refugee Debating Programme trained a group of youngrefugees in speech and debate for the production of a film for entryinto the National Youth Parliament Competition.

The participants, from the Children's Society Young Refugee'sMedia Project, took on the role of government, opposition andbackbench MPs, delivering speeches on the motion This Housewould be proud to be an asylum seeker.

The ESU is running a series of similar training days and workshopsin preparation for Refugee Week 2007, which will run from 18-24June.

Right: Refugee Debating Programme participants practise their speeches for the National Youth Parliament competition

When visiting Dartmouth House, why not take a moment to look at the display cabinet, where you will find an

exclusive range of gift items, all featuring the ESU logo. The items for sale are reasonably priced starting from

just £3.50 and range from key fobs to an impressive assortment of glassware, ties, and jewellery.

Ask at reception for details.

ESU Merchandise

6

On 9th March 2007, a distinguished panelinterviewed UK students for the ESUSecondary School Exchange Scholarships.This programme was created to promoteAnglo-American understanding and enablesgap-year students to spend a year at anAmerican High School. SSE scholars areable to study new subjects, try new sports,gain knowledge of a different culture andalso learn much about themselves as theygrow academically and socially.

The interview panel included AdrianUnderwood OBE, Elizabeth Stokes, ESUDirector of Education and KatherinePlummer, ESU Education ProgrammesManager.

The committee was pleased to be able tomake 17 awards and is confident that allthe scholars will act as excellent ambas-sadors of the UK and of the English-Speaking Union during their year in the US.

Elizabeth Stokes and Katherine Plummeralso went on a tour of SSE host schools inthe North West of England, in March, andmet some of the US scholars currentlyenjoying their gap-year scholarships.

The schools and students visited includedSteven Kessel at Giggleswick School,Joanna Reiser at Casterton School,Catherine Redburgh at Sedburgh Schooland Emme Hughes at St Bees School. Allfour schools have been involved in sendingand receiving scholars for several years andtheir participation has helped the SSE programme grow and expand. CameronMiller from St Bees is presently in NewYork at the Lawrenceville School and SimonWigfield of Giggleswick has been attendingMemphis University School.

The visit enabled Elizabeth and Katherineto see how the scholars were progressingbut also to meet with Heads to discuss the

impact of the programme on their schools.In addition, it served to deepen the linksbetween the ESU and participating schoolsand helped the ESU staff gain a greaterunderstanding of the ethos of each school.This can only improve the SSE scholarship in the future.

'I have now been in Memphis, Tennesseefor over six months attending MemphisUniversity School. Academically, theschool is one of the best in the Southernstates. MUS isn't just a school dedicatedto academic excellence, it has so manyextra curricular activities, clubs and organisations. These next few months willbe filled with as many different activitiesand experiences as I can manage.’ Simon Wigfield, SSE student, Giggleswick School.

Secondary School Exchange Programme

Why We Need EnglishAt the ESU International Council Meeting in September, ProfessorRanko Bugarski, Honorary President of ESU Serbia, gave a stimulating and thought-provoking speech on Why We NeedEnglish.

Professor Bugarski espoused that English has comfortably survivedthe advance of multilingualism and become not only a means ofcommunication but also identity. He cites the example of youngpeople throughout the world who learn, travel, make friends andhave fun through English.

“More than half the world's population is bi- or multilingual anyway: and in my own case English, as a language I have been in daily contact with for decades, is as much part of my linguisticidentity as my native Serbo-Croatian,” he said.

He believes that English can no longer merely be taught as a foreign language - it has become an additional language, one thathas a bright future.

A full copy of Professor Bugarski's speech Why We Need Englishcan be downloaded from www.esu.org under News and Events.Professor Ranko Bugarski, Ph.D. Honorary President, ESU Serbia

Morehead Scholarships AnnouncedThe Morehead Scholarship Awards to the University of NorthCarolina (UNC) in Chapel Hill are among the world's most generousand prestigious university scholarships providing up to four placeseach year, fully funded, for selected British school leavers to pursuea first degree programme at UNC.

Having passed the first round of interviews at Dartmouth House inNovember 2006, Alastair Monty of Marlborough College, AlexanderLee of Wellington College and Mark Laichena of Christ's Hospitaltravelled to Chapel Hill in March 2007 for a weekend of intensiveinterviewing alongside candidates from the US. We are pleased toannounce that all three candidates were successful.

James Dean, Chairman of the British Morehead Programme and anAlumnus of the programme said afterwards: “It's great news thatwe have another three outstanding candidates going to UNC asMorehead scholars to join the four from last year. I hope their success inspires students from all over the UK to apply this yearand keep the 38-year tradition of British students at Chapel Hillgoing into the future.”

For more information about ESU education scholarships, pleasecontact katherine_plummer@esu.org

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A concert in memory of Nicolas Wickham-Irving, former Chairman of the English-Speaking Union Cultural Affairs sub-Committee, was held at Dartmouth Houseon Monday 12 March. During his time asChairman and as a founding member of the committee, Nicolas did so much to promote the aims of the ESU and tochange the lives of young musicians. ESUMusic Scholars Warren Mailley-Smith(Ravel, 2000), Gemma Rosefield (Ravel,2003), Simon Wallfisch (Banff, 2004),

Charles Watt (Yale, 2006) accompanied by pianist Alasdair Beatson, generouslydonated their time to perform at the concert.

Mrs Anne Skeggs, Chairman of the ESUCultural Affairs sub-Committee welcomedguests. Tributes to Nicolas were made by Mary Pearson, Sally Yates, AndrewJohnson and Nicolas’ sister Mrs ElspethBeatty, who travelled from the US to attendthe event.

The programme included several pieces byChopin including Berceuse Op. 57, BalladeNo. 1 in G minor, Op. 23 and Waltz in E minor Op. posthume performed byWarren Mailley-Smith.

Simon Wallfisch (Baritone) performed theDichterliebe Opus 48 by Robert Schumannand a unique piece by Christopher Mayo“Postcards to Goff”, for Baritone and Cello.Gemma Rosefield (cello) performed “BeiMännern” Variations on a theme of Mozartby Ludwig van Beethoven with CharlesWatt giving a performance of Sonata forCello and Piano in C major, Op. 65 byBenjamin Britten. The concert was roundedoff with a moving performance of DavidPopper's Requiem for Three Cellos andPiano.

Lord Aberdare, member of the CulturalAffairs sub-Committee gave the Vote ofThanks and the concert was followed by a drinks reception where a recording ofNicolas Wickham-Irving performing Chopinwas played. The evening was a very moving celebration of Nicolas’ life and anextremely fitting tribute with his closestfriends and family in attendance. Thanks to the Charlotte Bonham-Carter CharitableTrust for its generous sponsorship of this concert.

Memorial Concert for Nicolas Wickham-Irving

Literary Lecture with Sir Donald Hawley Sir Donald Hawley, a distinguished Arabist and formerGovernor of The English-Speaking Union presented hisnew book The Emirates: Witness to a Metamorphosiswhich takes a revealing look at the 'then and now' of the United Arab Emirates.

Valerie Mitchell welcomed guests to Dartmouth House, including His Excellency Ambassador of the Republic ofSudan Mr Omer M. A. Siddig, to hear Sir Donald Hawleygive a sympathetic and evaluative lecture on theEmirates.

Recounting his days as HM Political Agent in what were the Trucial States from 1958 to 1961, Sir Donaldwonderfully recaptured the stirrings of the astonishingchange of circumstances over that period through thevivid descriptions of his day-to-day life and the charactershe encountered. His unique perspective gave the audience an impression of the scale and the implicationsof the transformation from the modest beginnings to theunrecognisable entity the area is today. Sir Donald concluded by reminding guests how the Emirates featuressocially and commercially in our daily lives.

The Rt Hon the Lord Luce gave the Vote of Thanks.(L-R) HE Mr Omer M. A. Siddig Ambassador of Sudan, Sir Donald Hawley and The Rt Hon the Lord Luce

(L-R) Simon Wallfisch, Alasdair Beatson, Gemma Rosefield, Warren Mailley-Smith and Charles Watt

8

Writer and historian, Professor John Lukacswas the guest speaker at a Pilgrims LiteraryLuncheon, held in association with the

ESU, at Dartmouth House in February.He gave an insightful lecture entitledChurchill: The Historian

discussing the political leader's eloquence,character and visionary leadership.

ESU Chairman, Lord Hunt welcomed guestsand the Rt Hon Michael Howard introducedProfessor Lukacs who followed with an interesting assessment on Churchill'sdual role as both historian and politician.

Reciting some of Churchill's most powerfulwriting, Professor Lukacs demonstrated how Churchill's main strength as a writer of history was not his objective analysis ofthe past but the masterful and compellingway in which he expressed himself.

The lecture offered an extraordinaryaccount of a fascinating personality in history. The luncheon was attended byLady Soames and the Vote of Thanks givenby Sir Robert Worcester Chairman of thePilgrims and an ESU Governor.

The Pilgrims Society was founded in 1902to promote goodwill, good fellowship andeverlasting peace between the US andGreat Britain.

John Lukacs at Pilgrims Literary Lunch

Lord Watson Visits the ESU in St PetersburgLord Watson visited St Petersburg in December, accompanied byLady Watson. The visit was organised by Margarita Mudrak,Chairman ESU Russia-St Petersburg and Lord Watson's academicprogramme was planned by Natalia Blinova, a professor at theSchool of International Relations at St Petersburg State University.

During his stay, Lord Watson gave three lectures, two at theUniversity on Parliament and the Parties and The Rise and Rise of English. The third was at the ESU House of Friendship

on Reputation Management. All were very well attended andenthusiastically received. In addition, Lord Watson met with theacting Chairman of the St Petersburg Legislative Assembly and was delighted to learn that the ESU in St Petersburg goes fromstrength to strength.

A wonderful luncheon in honour of Lord and Lady Watson washosted by Mr George Edgar, HM Consul-General and Mrs Edgar atthe British Council Residence.

International at HomeGuests from 15 countries were welcomed to an International at Home at Dartmouth House on 14 February by Susan Bull,Chairman on the Promotions Sub-Committee, and Valerie Mitchell,who gave a presentation on the national and international work ofthe ESU. The morning ended with a tour of Dartmouth House.

(L-R) Mrs Seza Ersan, wife of the Minister Counsellor at the TurkishEmbassy, Mrs Valerie Mitchell, and HRH Princess Mabereng Seeiso, wife of the High Commissioner for Lesotho

Sir Robert Worcester, Chairman of the Pilgrims, with guest speaker Professor John Lukacs

9

Literary Luncheon with HugoVickers at Dartmouth House

Hugo Vickers was the speaker at a Literary Luncheon held at Dartmouth House in March.An acknowledged expert on the Royal Family, he presented his acclaimed book Elizabeth:The Queen Mother giving a candid and personal account of one of Britain's most lovednational treasures.

Hugo Vickers spent 17 years researching the Queen Mother's life, having observed her for40 years. He saw her in public and in private, talked to her close friends and staff andtravelled the world in search of previously unseen documents and letters.

As a result, he was able to give guests a unique and intimate insight into the QueenMother's life explaining how she faced her challenges and crises as she stepped into thepublic domain as the wife of a king. Mr Vickers also drew attention to her stoic support ofthe monarchy and her country as she shifted role within the Royal Family.

The lecture, chaired by Valerie Mitchell, offered a wonderful, reflective portrait of theQueen Mother who had such a multi-faceted life. The luncheon was also attended byDame Frances Campbell-Preston, the oldest surviving Lady-in-Waiting to the Queen Mother.

The ESU is delighted to welcome AlexStanden as Communications Assistant.Alex takes over from Norma Reid as theperson responsible for co-ordinating ESUNews.

Currently doing Postgraduate Research in Italian Literature, Alex has lived andworked in both Italy and France. HerInterests include literature, theatre and cinema.

She has previous experience of working inPR and Communications and says she isdelighted to be working for the ESU andlooking forward to working on ESU News.

New Face

May 31 sees the launch of ESU Moldova in Chisinau. The programme of events will include a two-day conference entitledThe Development of English in Moldovaat the State University Senate Room and a cultural programme including visits to the Tipova and Saharna Monasteries andthe Milestii Mici wine tasting Cellar. Theformal launch will take place on 4 June atthe British Cultural Centre of the StateUniversity of Moldova, followed by aReception at The British Embassy.

Tickets cost £197 for Delegates.

For more information please contact Katie Brock.

ESU MoldovaLaunch

Hugo Vickers and Dame Frances Campbell-Preston

Alex Standen

If you would like to strengthen the ESU’sever increasing educational programme by a donation or a legacy in your Will,please contact Jo Wedderspoon at Dartmouth House37 Charles StreetLondon, W1J 5ED, telephone 020 7529 1550email jo_wedderspoon@esu.org.

Your help would be greatly appreciated.

Support the ESU

10

The success of State education was up for discussion at theDartmouth House Debating Society's Economics Debate, which wasrun in association with the Institute of Economic Affairs (IEA), onWednesday 7 March, when the motion was This House believesthat state education has failed.

In proposition were James Bartholomew, journalist and author ofThe Welfare State We're In and James Tooley PhD, Professor ofEducation Policy at the University of Newcastle.

George Wiskin, a former member of the NUT National Executive

and ESU Education Committee Member, and John Troake, headmaster of Hailing Manor High School in Croydon opposed the motion.

After a lively and hard fought debate, and some excellent speechesfrom the floor, the motion was carried by 48 votes to 12 with 10abstentions.

The ESU would like to extend its thanks to the IEA, each of thespeakers, and to Professor Philip Booth, the IEA's Editorial andProgramme Director, for chairing the debate.

ESU Links with IEA to Debate the Success ofState Education

Audience members vote at the Economics Debate

Commonwealth Day Observance atWestminster AbbeyCommonwealth Day was celebrated at Westminster Abbey on 12March, in the presence of Her Majesty The Queen and His RoyalHighness The Duke of Edinburgh. The theme was Respecting difference, promoting understanding. Lord Hunt and ValerieMitchell represented the ESU. A number of members were alsoable to attend and enjoy this special occasion.

The Observance is a multi-faith service which encompasses a mixof dance, song and liturgy, reflecting the unity and diversity of theCommonwealth.

11

Lord Watson Presents His New Book -Jamestown: The Voyage of EnglishLord Watson, ESU Chairman Emeritus of the International Councilis to present his new book Jamestown: The Voyage of English at aliterary lecture to be held at Dartmouth House in collaboration withThe Pilgrims.

Lord Watson will present his new book at a literary lecture

In his Forward to the book, HRH The Prince Philip, Duke ofEdinburgh as President of the ESU of the Commonwealth writes: 'It was the little acorn of the English language planted atJamestown that grew to become the tallest of oaks.'

Alan Watson defines and describes in this vivid and compellingaccount the significance of the arrival on America's East Coast in1607 of the Godspeed, the Susan Constant and the Discovery. The three ships carried the idea and the language which wouldshape the modern world. Alan Watson tells the story of a precari-ous venture that nearly failed. But it succeeded against the odds,planting the seeds of representative government, capitalism and the rule of law. These ideas were expressed in a language whichhad just reached a peak of power and vitality - the English ofShakespeare, Tyndale and Cranmer's Prayer Book.

The year 1607 marks the start of the voyage of English from thelanguage of four million inhabitants of the British Isles to its role astoday's working language of the global village used by almost twobillion people world-wide.

Educated at Cambridge, Lord Watson's career embraces broadcasting, education, business and politics. He has presentedBBC TV's flagship programmes - The Money Programme, andPanorama. He is former Commonwealth Chairman of the English-Speaking Union, former President of the British Liberal Party and amember of the House of Lords. He chairs a number of companiesincluding Burson-Marsteller Europe, CTN Communications and thewine importer, Raisin Social. He is an Honorary Fellow of JesusCollege Cambridge and a Visiting Fellow of Oriel College Oxford.Alan Watson is closely involved in the celebration of the 400thAnniversary of Jamestown. With Sir Robert Worcester of ThePilgrims, he chairs the Jamestown British Committee.

The literary lecture will be held at Dartmouth House on Thursday7th June at 7.00 p.m. Tickets cost £8 to include a glass of wine.To order tickets, please contact Gillian Parker.

Lord Watson takes part in the Jamestown Anniversary celebrations

A replica of the Discovery which set sail for America's East Coast in 1607

Lord Watson's new book

Telephone : 020 7529 1550 Fax : 020 7495 6108 Email : esu@esu.org Web : www.esu.org

Unless otherwise stated we regret that no refunds can be made for cancellations within seven working days of an event.

For members: We accept payment for Dartmouth House events andmembership subscriptions by credit/debit cards. Cards bearing Visa,

Master-Card, Maestro, Switch, Solo or Delta symbols can now be used to make bookings by post, telephone or email.

DARTMOUTH HOUSE Telephone : 020 7529 1550

Diary DatesMAY

Tuesday 8 May at 7pmMusical lecture at Dartmouth House with David Cairns who will also be presenting his new book Mozart and His Operas.David Cairns weaves a brilliantly engaging narrative which puts Mozart's operas in the context of his life, showing how they illuminate his creativity as a whole.Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing.Tickets: £8 to include a glass of wine.Contact: Gillian Parker

Wednesday 9 May 10.30 - 11.30 amCoffee Morning at Dartmouth House for members and their friends. Contact: Jacqueline Abbott

Wednesday 9 May at 6.30 pmLecture at Dartmouth House by Ann Nevill on The Vision ofStanley Spencer in aid of the ESU Chilton Art History Scholarship.Tickets £17.50 to include a glass of wine. Reception 6.30 pm,lecture 7.00 pm.Contact: Jacqueline Abbott

Saturday 12 May 12 - 5 pm2006/7 Public Speaking Competition for Schools National Finalat St Paul's School for Girls, London. The final nine schools from over 400 entrants will compete for the title. The schoolsrepresent Scotland, Wales and seven English regions.Contact: Natasha Plaister

Thursday 17 MayInternational Public Speaking Competition Final. With over 60participants from more than 30 countries, this promises to beanother exciting competition. Members are welcome toDartmouth House to see the heats from 9.00 amContact: Katie Brock

Thursday 24 May at 7.00 pmStephen Crisp, Head Gardener to the American Ambassadorssince 1987, on Horticultural Diplomacy - the History Gardensand Flower Arrangements of Winfield House, the AmericanAmbassadors' Home in London.Tickets: £7.50 to include a glass of wine.Contact: Gillian Parker

Thursday 31 May-4 JuneLaunch of ESU Moldova in Chisinau. To include a two day conference entitled The Development of English In Moldova atthe State University Senate Room and a cultural programme.Contact: Katie Brock

JUNE

Thursday 7 June at 7pmLiterary lecture with The Lord Watson of Richmond CBE atDartmouth House. In association with The Pilgrims, Lord Watsonwill present his new book Jamestown: The Voyage of Englishin which the former Commonwealth Chairman of the English-Speaking Union and now Chairman Emeritus of its InternationalCouncil, defines and describes in this vivid and compellingaccount the significance of the arrival on America's East coast in1607 of the Godspeed, the Susan Constant and the Discovery.Copies of the book will be available for purchase and signing.Tickets: £8 to include a glass of wine.Contact: Gillian Parker

Wednesday 13 June 10.30 - 11.30 amCoffee Morning at Dartmouth House for members and their friends.Contact: Jacqueline Abbott

Wednesday 13 June at 7pmLecture at Dartmouth House by Jason T. Busch on Art and LifeAlong the Mississippi River, 1850-1861. Jason Busch is theformer Associate Curator of Architecture, Design, Decorative ArtsCraft and Sculpture at the Minneapolis Institute of Arts. Since2006, he has been Curator of Decorative Arts, Carnegie Museumof Art, Pittsburgh. Tickets: £7.50 to include a glass of wine.Contact: Gillian Parker

JULY

Tuesday 3 JulyHouse of Lords Tea Party 3.30-5.00pmThe Rt Hon The Lord Hunt of Wirral MBE will receive guests on the Terrace of the House of Lords. This event is now fullybooked. Please contact Gillian Parker if you wish to go on the waiting list. Tickets: £25 Contact: Gillian Parker

Friday 19 to Sunday 21 October2007 Branches Conference at the 4-star Old Ship Hotel, Brighton. The conference will open on Friday evening with a reception and dinner at the hotel. Conference events will take place in the hotel and there are optional excursions on the Saturday afternoon. A gala dinner with musical entertainment will take place on Saturday evening at Brighton's Royal Pavilion.Contact: Meriel Talbot

Wednesday 24 October at 7pmProfessor Tony Badger, the Master of Clare College and Professor of American History at the University of Cambridge on The Origin of Franklin Roosevelt and the Fireside Chats.Tickets: £7.50 to include a glass of wineContact: Gillian Parker

ADVANCE NOTICE