Oliver Dowden, MP for Hertsmere, chaired a debate between Kings Langley School and Queens’ School, Bushey as part of the eighth Watford Inter-School Debating Cup.
The two schools debated the merits of building houses on green belt land, with Queens’ arguing in favour of the greater use of green belt land.
The competition was judged on debating and presentation style, as well as the quality and clarity of arguments made.
Students had to impress a panel of respected judges, including Lord Daniel Finkelstein of The Times, Lord Jon Mendelsohn, Linda McIntyre from Watford Workshop, and Herts County Councillor Frances Button.
Queens’ School were successful and they went on to reach the final against St Clement Danes in Chorleywood who ended up taking the trophy home and the chance to meet the House of Commons Speaker, John Bercow MP.
Mr Dowden MP said: “It was a pleasure to chair the debate between Queens’ School, Bushey, and Kings Langley School.
“Their debate over the merits of the green belt was a close run affair and I thought both sides made very good points.”
The Watford Inter-School Debating Cup is organised by Richard Harrington, MP for Watford, and schools from around Watford take part every year.
Richard Harrington MP said: “I’d like to thank all the schools for taking part, as well as our illustrious panel of judges and co-chairs.
“I started organising the Watford Debating Competition because I think it’s so important to engage young people in politics. A debating competition is great way to do that, whilst also helping students to gain public speaking experience.”
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