The University of Birmingham will be the location for the final televised Prime Ministerial Debate, to be broadcast by the BBC on Thursday 29 April at 8.30pm.
The leaders of the three biggest parties – Gordon Brown, David Cameron and Nick Clegg – will take to the podium in the historic surroundings of the University’s Great Hall, to debate the economy, arguably the most talked about topic on the election trail.
“We are delighted that the BBC has chosen Birmingham to host the final leader debate before the general election next week” says Professor David Eastwood, the University’s Vice-Chancellor. “This is a major coup for the University and there’s a great deal of excitement across campus.”
Professor Eastwood continues: “Universities play a critical role in shaping our communities and our countries. Not only do universities educate the leaders and workforces of the future, our research also delivers the knowledge, ideas, breakthroughs and advances that keep business and industry competitive, improve quality of life, and can enhance community cohesion. It is, therefore, most fitting that the University is the location for the final debate.”
More than 250 media are expected on campus to cover the debate action. University caterers have been working around the clock to ensure that the press pack are fed and watered throughout!
Although audience places at the debate are not available, staff and students can watch the Prime Ministerial Debate from 8.30pm to 10pm on the BBC Big Screen, which will be erected on the rugby pitch by the Grange Road entrance to campus in Selly Oak. During the day, from 12pm onwards the BBC Big Screen will also feature coverage from the BBC News Channel, a selection of short films from local producers, music videos and documentaries.
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Notes to Editors:
University of Birmingham
From establishing the UK's first university medical school to improving breast cancer survival rates and synthesising vitamin C, Birmingham has been transforming lives for more than a century. Alongside vital research into global health and wellbeing, such as brain injury, cancer, obesity and healthy ageing, the University is also championing practical clean energy and promoting cultural and personal enrichment.
For media enquiries:
Rachel Burrows – Head of Communications, University of Birmingham
tel: 0121 414 6681 / mob: 07789 921165 / email: r.burrows@bham.ac.uk
Kate Chapple – Press Officer, University of Birmingham
tel: 0121 414 2772 / mob: 07789 921164 / email: k.h.chapple@bham.ac.uk
Ben Hill – Press Officer, University of Birmingham
tel: 0121 414 5134 / mob: 07789 921163 / email: b.r.hill@bham.ac.uk
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