BRENTWOOD: School denies plans to invite 'racist' speakers

FRESH claims that infamous Holocaust historian David Irving and British National Party MEP Andrew Brons could soon be speaking at Brentwood School have been strongly denied.

The Gazette has received supposed details of feelers which went out to the "racist" pair to talk at the private school. Headmaster Ian Davies denies any such plans.

And to show they have nothing to hide, he responded by inviting us to speak to sixth-form politics students who attend the Sir Anthony Browne Society (SABS), whose latest speaker was MP Angela Smith and whose upcoming speakers include controversial left-wing MP George Galloway.

Our source, who claims to have close links to the school, said: "Feelers have been put out recently to both Irving and the new BNP MEP, Andrew Brons, to talk to sixth-formers.

"Many people I am sure would agree with me that such blatant racists would be utterly unacceptable, especially in a school of all places, with impressionable young people.

"The rationale for inviting such putrid figures escapes me."

A member of SABS, Liam Taylor, 17, would however welcome grilling controversial characters at the school and backed the BBC's decision to give BNP leader Nick Griffin a platform on Question Time.

The Labour supporter, who became interested in politics at home with his family, said: "I do think he should have been given that opportunity. We do live in a democracy and he has enough support to be granted that.

"The great thing about democracy is you can challenge them and show them up for their true colours. I thought Question Time provided that and showed the BNP for what they really are."

He added: "I love a good debate so if Nick Griffin came I would relish the challenge."

Another SABS member, Ryan Barrell, 17, who first became interested in politics through television shows such as Have I Got News For You, said he would "destroy" Mr Griffin in a political debate.

"I think having Griffin here would be interesting – he certainly would be shouted down instantly," he said.

But the student, who describes his political stance as centre or centre-right, warned against inviting other, lesser-known BNP representatives to the school who may gain more credibility. He was also wary of allowing controversial views to be given to young, impressionable students.

"There are some people in the society who don't know about politics," he added.

"You have got to be careful about who is in the audience."

Like all the students the Gazette spoke to, Alex Rigler, 17, said SABS had had a positive impact on his schooling, giving him the chance to listen to politicians and other interesting characters, some of whom have incredible stories to tell.

He also welcomed student debate but warned against giving some politicians a platform.

"I don't think it should be on national television if people feel that strongly against it and find it offensive, which I do," he said.

Brentwood School headmaster Ian Davies added: "Open political debate is important if we are to preserve the values of a democratic society, and the society gives pupils the opportunities to listen and respond to a variety of political opinions."