How we choose motions

How we choose a motion

We consider a motion’s current relevance and its value as a public-speaking exercise. We look for:

• clear wording

• a manageable scope

• a fair opportunity to argue either side

Topics may be controversial. Controversy alone is not a reason to exclude a motion.

We consider whether the wording supports constructive disagreement and whether the session can be chaired responsibly. We do not approve wording that targets participants for humiliation or invites harassment.

Political neutrality

Our educational events may cover political issues. We do not operate as a political party, political campaigning organisation or vehicle for party-political campaigning.

We do not use the debate programme to promote a political party or campaign. We do not choose motions to advance an organiser’s political commitments.

Event publicity must remain neutral. It must not present either side as our preferred answer. Motions, arguments and audience results must not be presented as our views or endorsements.

Speakers may argue positions they do not personally hold.

When debates take place

We schedule motions according to their current relevance, preparation needs and place within a varied programme.

We consider:

• participants’ availability

• accessibility

• whether we have the capacity to chair the session responsibly

• recent events that may make the timing particularly sensitive

We publish the motion and event information early enough for people to prepare and decide whether to attend. We review the programme as a whole to offer a range of subjects and perspectives.

We do not use the timing or publicity of an event to support a political campaign.

We may reconsider, reword or postpone a motion if circumstances change or we cannot deliver the event responsibly. We notify registered participants promptly of significant changes.

Content warnings and taking part

Every event listing will include a short content warning. It will identify the topic and any sensitive themes we can reasonably foresee, so people can make an informed choice about attending.

For debates, we publish the warning alongside the motion and repeat it briefly at the start. We do not rely only on a general statement that the topic may be controversial.

You may:

• listen without speaking

• decline a speaking role

• take a break

• leave without explaining why

A content warning does not replace responsible motion selection, accessible delivery or our conduct rules. We must still address concerns about discrimination, harassment or safeguarding.

What audience votes mean

In our practice debates, the audience decides which side made the more persuasive case.

The vote assesses the arguments and speeches presented. It is not a factual verdict on the motion or an endorsement by the club.

Persuasiveness includes:

• clear reasoning

• effective explanation

• relevant support

• responses to opposing arguments

Audience members may take the quality of evidence into account.

The chair must explain the basis for voting before the debate. Debate voting is separate from formal Society decisions.

Honest participation

Members must participate honestly and constructively.

Speakers must not knowingly invent evidence or misrepresent sources. They must distinguish established facts, opinions and hypothetical examples.

Practice debates develop public-speaking skills. They do not certify disputed claims as true.

Concerns and decision records

You can raise concerns about a motion’s wording, timing or delivery through the routes in our Constitution. These include contacting the Secretary or an Executive Officer who has no conflict of interest in the matter.

We consider concerns on their merits. We acknowledge the concern, explain the educational purpose and review any specific risk. Describing an event as a debate does not, by itself, resolve a concern.

The Society Committee, or an organiser acting within their delegated authority, should record:

• the motion

• why it was chosen

• the reason for its timing

• the content warning

• any changes made after review

How to make a complaint