Radio 4 came to The Space last Friday, when the political panel programme Any Questions was broadcast live from the Pamoja Hall.
With presenter Jonathan Dimbleby, the panel included Vice Chair of the Conservative Party Kemi Badenoch MP; Sir Ed Davey MP, spokesman for the Liberal Democrats on Home Affairs; Shadow Policing Minister Louise Haigh MP; and the Political Editor of the Sun newspaper, Tom Newton Dunn.
They led a riveting debate ranging from the prospects of a common union to the coming visit of President Trump. The 400-strong live audience voiced their approval throughout the night, and submitted hundreds of provoking questions.
I found one particular question interestingly provocative: ‘Do we have Trump to thank for the Korean Peace talks?’ asked by Year 10 Sevenoaks student Sian McAllister. The ensuing discussion debated the economic and political causes, with insightful points made by Tom Newton Dunn on our attitude towards congratulating Trump and the impact of the unreliability of his rash actions on the Korean peace talks.
There was additionally tense debate over May’s involvement in the Windrush scandal, the possible resignation of Amber Rudd and the government’s inability to reach a decision about the Northern Ireland border. The programme really highlighted how current and vital these questions are, with answers easily changing over the coming days or weeks due to new information and developments in crises.
This was a wonderful experience for students, parents and public alike to take part in vital debates during this unique time, and I hope Any Questions will join us at Sevenoaks School again in the future.
Nell Rudd-Jones, Lower Sixth
