PLP Hosts University of Leeds Debate Finals
On 03 March 2025, Parklane Plowden was delighted to host an impressive and talented group of speakers from Leeds Law Society and Lawyers Without Borders for the debate finals. Judged by our two Leeds pupils, Lydia Reed and Avaia Williams, the proposal was a challenge for any seasoned debater: “This house believes that democratic states should constitutionally prohibit the imposition of martial law.”
Two teams competed in the heated finals, with Leeds Law Society emerging victorious. Delivering a powerful argument against the motion, demonstrating adept advocacy and reasoning.
The judges also awarded two ‘distinguished speaker’ acknowledgments for those speakers who showed talent and ability beyond that which would be expected. Matilda Forrest who took on the role of Leader of the Opposition, and Fatima Babar who was acting as Opposition Whip, both performed exceptionally and left a lasting impression on Lydia and Avi.
Parklane Plowden had hosted the previous two heats in the competition. James Murphy, Head of Chambers, judged the first-round concerning whether the internet should be provided as a basic human right; with Dominic Crossley presiding over the second-round debate on the Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill.
These events were organised by the Law Society’s Debating Secretary, Evie Dutton.
Teams/Speakers
Leeds Law Society (winning team)
- Matilda Forrest (distinguished speaker)
- Fatima Babar (distinguished speaker)
- Abdul-Hafeez Ganiyu
- Kailing Ruan
Lawyers Without Borders
- Maryam Khawaja
- Sumana Madichetty
- Zaara Ilani Binti Mohd Zin
- Janith Prabashwara Perera Jayatilake Kankanamalage
Quotes
“We had an insightful evening listening to the debate. It was encouraging to see so many enthusiastic debaters and we hope they enjoyed their visit to Chambers as much as we did hosting them.” (Lydia Reed)
“It was a pleasure hosting the teams and observers from the University, supporting with outreach such as this is something that really matters to me and Chambers and we are dedicated to working with local groups and organisations to encourage talented young people to pursue the Bar. I had a really enjoyable time judging the debate, and it was surprising to learn that many of those speakers who joined us were only just in their first year, including our distinguished speakers.” (Avaia Williams)
