News & Notes
Motion breakdowns, tournament results, and the craft of argument from the floor of the chamber.
From the Union
Strategy notes, post-tournament write-ups and the occasional opinion worth arguing with. Written by members, for anyone who takes ideas seriously.
A beginner’s year: from a shaky reply speech to breaking at Nottingham
One of our second-years on what a year in the Union actually feels like from the inside — nerves, feedback, and the first time the call goes your way.
9 July 2026
The Trinity term card: eight weeks, eight motions
From assassination markets to grammar schools — the full run of motions for Trinity term, with notes on why we picked each one.
28 June 2026
How to construct a first speaker argument
The opening speech sets the frame for the entire debate. Here's what our most experienced members do differently.
16 June 2026
Oxford Open 2025: motion breakdown and results
We ran nine rounds across the weekend. Here's how the motions split and who made the final.
15 June 2026
Points of Information: when to give them, when to take them
POIs are more strategic than most beginners realise. Used well, they change the entire dynamic of a debate.
14 June 2026
Why studying law doesn't make you a better debater
Our best speakers come from every subject. Here's what actually improves at the dispatch box.
13 June 2026