Students at Oxford University clashed before a freedom of speech debate that was to be given by David Irving, a holocaust denier, and Nick Griffin, the leader of British National Party. Protestors waved placards as ticketholders tried to enter the event before violence broke out and the debating chamber was invaded. Police were called in to control the situation which had forced Mr Irving and Mr Griffin to hold the debate in separate rooms at around 10pm. Griffin spoke about the public’s view of the BNP, libel laws and immigration, while Irving discussed his conviction for holocaust denial in Austria.
From the Times online
"I am totally for free speech, just as long as only MY ideas are allowed. Ideas that differ from mine should never be permitted!"
Doug Whitman, Normal, IL, USA
From the BBC’s "Have your say"
"Ban the opposition, ban debate, ignorance is strength, hear and obey, never question the orthodox for we know better.We’ve had the rubbish above from the socialists for the past 40 years and now we’re getting it from the pseudo-conservatives. Just who on earth do they think they are to try to tell me who I should and should not listen to.It wasn’t the BNP that took us in to Europe, it wasn’t the BNP that set of the bombs on July the 7th, it isn’t the BNP stealing from our pensions."
[The_Jerry_Cornelius], Tanalorn, United Kingdom
"Why shouldn’t the BNP have a platform to speak they are the only party to speak the truth."
steve chapman, chesterfield
"Our mythical right to free speech is finally biting the dust and the thought police are coming…"
Stool Pigeon
"Free speech,whats that? This country hasn’t had free speech since the P C mob took over."
pat sheppard
"The BNP wouldn’t even exist if politicians had gotten a handle on immigration 30 years ago. It’s their fault and their fault alone."
Ian Bruce, Aberdeen, United Kingdom
"If the "cleric" Abu Hamza (the chap with the hook) could stand every week for
years, inciting hatred and violence towards us British, then I think it`s fair don`t you, for two of our "own" to debate rationally a subject which is becoming very close to nearly everyone`s heart in this country. Nick Griffin is no fool, he is an Oxford graduate (or is it Cambridge) whatever, he is an intelligent man and should be given the chance to air his views, views, which a lot of people in this country hold."
Sandra Morton, Nottingham
And one from my hometown…Unforunately
"You underestimate Mr Griffin. He can eloquently handle Liberal facists which is why this BBC inspired liberal guardianista society want to outlaw the BNP at every opportunity. Ah yes, that’s liberal democracy for you!"
Seamus Dunne, Watford
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