MP is impressed by high school debate
Last week I attended the recently-formed Diss High School Debating Club, set up by Year 12 students Oliver Maskell and Amy Smith.
The club attracts about 20 members as well as some staff, though it is the students themselves who are the driving force in the debate, with the teachers taking a back seat.
On my visit, the club debated whether people who assist someone to commit suicide should face the risk of prosecution – which they currently do – at least in theory.
The issue is highly topical because of a recent decision not to prosecute parents who helped their paralysed rugby-playing son travel to Switzerland to commit suicide.
There were many speakers on both sides of the debate and the students were articulate and persuasive, with some mentioning family experiences.
A vote at the beginning was narrowly in favour of allowing assisted suicide, but by the end those against had narrowly turned the tables.
Well done to Oliver and Amy for starting the club. I hope it's the start of a long tradition at the school.
Citizen's advice
I was pleased to visit the new Diss Citizens' Advice Bureau premises in Shelfanger Road, which are a big improvement on the old building.
Waiting times to be seen should also improve soon with the introduction of a triage system – similar to that used in hospital accident and emergency departments – so if you are only going in for a leaflet you should not need to wait but if you need more in-depth advice, appointments will be on offer.
As funding is becoming more difficult to obtain in the current financial climate. I've offered my support for any funding bids that Diss CAB wants to make. The invaluable work done by CAB staff and volunteers must continue.
Corn Hall refurbishment
The Corn Hall is surely one of the most beautiful buildings in Diss.
Its warm honey coloured faade and columns remind me of classical buildings in ancient Rome and there is a marvellous amount of space inside.
The Corn Hall has so much potential, but it is currently under-used – partly because facilities are outdated and don't match modern legislation on disability and so on.
There are many ideas for what to do, from better kitchens and more exhibitions to theatre and improved cinema.
There's lots to think about. My congratulations to project co-ordinator Sue Reeves for getting the ball rolling.
Fore more information about Richard Bacon, click here
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Weather for Diss
Thursday 02 September 2010
Today
Sunny spells
Temperature: 9 C to 19 C
Wind Speed: 12 mph
Wind direction: South east
Tomorrow
Sunny spells
Temperature: 9 C to 18 C
Wind Speed: 9 mph
Wind direction: North east
