Al Fayed Pulls Out
The Oxford Union suffered yet another blow this week with the cancellation of one more of its big-name speakers.
As the Oxford Student went to press, it was revealed that Mohamed Al Fayed, who was scheduled to speak next week, has become the fourth speaker in three weeks to pull out. It is understood, however, that Mr Al Fayed may reschedule his visit for next term.
One disgruntled Union member commented, "to lose one big speaker in three weeks is unfortunate...to lose three is careless."
The Harrods owner is due to appear in court on the day in question and hopes to speak at the Union next term. Michael Winner pulled out of his talk at the Union on Monday, only four days after Damon Albarn withdrew from the 'Rock Debate' at the last moment. The cancellation of the Blur lead-singer was announced in a full-page advertisement in last week's Oxford Student. Despite the singer's absence, however, the event was highly acclaimed by those who attended.
Union President, Ben Seifert defended the Union against the charge that it was not providing the service for which its members pay the £120 membership fee. Seifert argued, "it was impossible to guarantee" that speakers will turn up, adding how he personally was "on the phone for eight hours" trying to find a speaker to replace Damon Albarn.
Substitute speakers were indeed found at short notice, and Seifert remarked that Keith Allen was "a fantastic success." Niamh Byrne at CMO Management, who are responsible for Blur, reported that Alex James and Keith Allen had had "a great time" at the debate.
There was also more good news for the Union as Byrne commented "everybody is still talking about [the debate]." Despite the cancellations, Seifert noted that there had been "no complaints from members."
Union members were understanding, many members agreed that the last-minute cancellations were out of the Union officers' control. Union Member Ben Lennox commented, "it isn't the Union's fault. There isn't much they can do." Joseph Goldsmith echoed this sentiment, he added "by their very nature celebrities will cancel at short notice". There were even those who saw that the failure of certain celebrities to turn up as a blessing in disguise. One member who wishes to remain anonymous suggested that "Michael Winner is repulsive anyway. The only people who want to see him are those who want to sneer at him."
4th Nov 1999