Welcome to our May newsletter. We look back at our last few meetings demonstrating our commitment to discussing any and all topics without fear of cancellation. We also look forward to a packed programme of events over the summer and hope that you will find at least one event that piques your interest. Finally, we are looking for help for our groups in Newcastle, Sheffield and Edinburgh. And if you have something to get off your chest, we are always looking for speakers.

What we have been talking about

The last couple of months have seen us talking about a wide range of controversial topics, demonstrating our commitment to free speech in a friendly and respectful atmosphere. We have also spent a few quid at the bar, doing our bit to support this vital part of our hospitality industry! Topics discussed include:

• Is there profit in curing cancer?
• Slay the stagnation dragon: Ignite real economic growth!
• Rubber meanings: A definition stretch too far?
• Today’s Trade Unions: Whose side are they on?
• Chagos: Security, Sovereignty and the process of of political gesture
• What has happened to the comedy industry?
• Public health approaches in policing
• The culture wars and gender identity

You can find write-ups of these meetings here.

Upcoming events

As summer approaches we are happy to say that we have a lot going on with many fascinating topics coming up for discussion at our free “free speech” events.

This begins with some great news for those based in London. The London group has just announced a second meeting at the Warwick pub in Pimlico, on Monday 15th June. The subject will be Digital ID: Panacea or dystopia (speakers to be announced).

The Manchester Group have a packed program of meetings for the summer period, covering The War in Iran, Direct Democracy, The Crisis in UK Farming and a discussion around Citizenship and Identity.

The Nottingham Free Thinkers group are covering some fascinating topics, with their next event being Education in the 202s: How we learn in the age of AI.

Find out about all upcoming events here.

Help needed

Unfortunately, our Sheffield group not been active this year. There is the potential to get the group restarted, but we need one or two people to take the lead. If you live in the area and fancy helping out, then we would love to hear from you.

We are also hoping to get our group in Edinburgh restarted in the autumn and if you are interested in helping out or simply attending please contact us using the details below.

Our Newcastle team our planning to take a break from organising but have ready made audience if you would like to get involved there and help keep the group going.

None of these groups require a big commitment, particularly in the early days, and we can provide support. If nothing else, these are great social events, and an opportunity to forge new friendships. You can find out more here about running your own group. If this appeals to you, please contact us via info@politicsinpubs.org.uk.

Speakers sought

Last but not least, we are always looking for speakers. If you have a topic that you feel passionately about, we would be delighted to have you come and speak to one of our meetings. Please get in touch via info@politicsinpubs.org.uk.