Longest serving Labour MP and political maverick, Tony Benn, gave his audience much food for thought during a fascinating and challenging lecture at Bishop's Stortford College on Wednesday 18th October. In his inimitable style, Mr Benn made his 200-strong audience feel as if they were sitting by the fire with him, whilst he spoke with passion about, ‘Faith, Peace and Democracy’. 

Drawing on more than fifty years experience in the political arena, he spoke on a wide range of subjects beginning with what he believes to be the most important question to be faced today, “What do you do with the resources you have?” There was plenty of time for members of the audience to pose their own questions at the end, asking Mr Benn about his views on a number of issues including the war in Iraq, Britain’s relationship with America, the future of the United Nations and what he would do if he was Prime Minister today. Over fifty students and teachers from five local secondary schools attended together with members of the general public and pupils and staff from Bishop's Stortford College. 

The event is part of a series of public lectures and forums launched in memory of Professor John Ferguson, an eminent former pupil at the college who devoted much of his adult life to education and the promotion of international peace, friendship and understanding. Head of Economics and Business Studies at the College, John Birchall, and organiser of the series explained. “The purpose of the Ferguson Lecture series is to provide opportunities, not just for our own pupils but for people in the wider community, to meet, discuss and ponder on a wide range of issues. I felt that Tony Benn was the ideal person to give this first lecture since he shares so many of the characteristics of John Ferguson. He, like John, has kept to his beliefs, values and principles throughout a long and illustrious life in public office and it was a real privilege to listen to someone of who thinks deeply about the complex issues we face and speaks from the heart.”

The Ferguson Lecture series will continue on November 8th when there will be two separate events: Stephen King, chief economist of the HSBC will give a lecture on Global Issues at 4pm and at 8pm history teacher Tom Stuart will lead a public forum on the Spanish Civil War 70 Years On. On December 6 at 8pm Head of Geography, Dr Peter O’Connor, will run a forum about the pioneering use of geographical information system technology in education.

All events are free but tickets do need to be booked in advance on 01279 838575.