Debating competition enters second phase
24 Jan 08
Society's schools tournament features contentious immigration motion
Scottish pupils are to debate whether or not immigrants are a drain on Scotland's public services in the second round of the Law Society of Scotland's annual debating tournament for schools.
Now in its 10th year, the Donald Dewar Memorial Debating Tournament is being partnered by the Equality and Human Rights Commission for the first time. A total of 64 teams from schools across Scotland will battle it out for a place in the regional finals, leading to the grand final in June.
The second round heats will be held on 31 January and 5 February, with 16 teams going through to the penultimate stage.
Ros Micklem, the Equality and Human Rights Commission's national director for Scotland, said: "One of our big challenges is ensuring that Scotland’s young people understand the difference that equality and human rights can make to them, and feel enthusiastic about helping to create a fairer society. We want an ambitious, confident Scotland built on fairness and respect, where there is no place for discrimination.
"The debating tournament provides a fantastic opportunity to do just that. I’m looking forward to the next round and wish all the participants the best of luck."
The competition was launched to mark the 50th anniversary of the Law Society in 1999 and has since become the biggest schools debating tournament in the country.
A DVD including footage of last year's final has been issued to every secondary school in Scotland, and is available through the Society’s website: www.lawscot.org.uk .