The BBC’s Democracy Live has recorded a debate amongst British Members of Parliament about plans to commemorate the Centenary of the First World War in the UK.
The debate, which took place in Westminster Hall on the 11th June 2013, covered a variety of topics and aspects of the British Government’s commemorative programme.
Keith Simpson MP, Conservative Party representative for Broadland, led the debate:
“For me, the purpose of this short debate is to consider what role Parliament will play in this commemoration and to encourage my fellow parliamentarians to participate in events and advise local communities about them”.
Mr. Simpson also acknowledged that: “We cannot get away from the fact that the First World War is a controversial subject. It was controversial at the time”.
Topics discussed included education and the legacy the commemorations will have on young people; how to maintain the momentum behind the commemorations for the six year period (2013-2019); and the role the Commonwealth, international partners and the devolved governments of the United Kingdom will play.
Later in the debate, the issue of of ‘commemoration vs. celebration’ for the Centenary was discussed.
To watch the full debate, visit the BBC Democracy Live website here.
Date of publication: 11/06/2013
Images courtesy of the BBC Democracy Live website
Posted by: Daniel Barry, Centenary News