27th May 2010: 'Crisis in Local Democracy? The media, politics and public opinion in Kent'

'Crisis in Local Democracy? The media, politics and public opinion in Kent'
The relationship between local politics and regional media will be explored in a public debate at Canterbury Christ Church University on Thursday 27 May, 2010.

The event: 'Crisis in Local Democracy? The media, politics and public opinion in Kent', will see an open debate between local journalists, editors, bloggers as well as key local politicians.

Confirmed speakers include Trudy Dean (Leader of Liberals in KCC), Graham Gibbens(Conservative Councillor), Simon Long-Price (BBC South East), Maureen Tomison (Chair and Chief Executive of Politics Europe Ltd, former Labour Parliamentary Candidate), Leo Whitlock (editor KM Group).

Dr David Bates, Director of Politics and International Relations at Canterbury Christ Church University said: "The media can have a huge impact on our political views, as we have seen in recent weeks. But how good is the media at holding politicians to account? Has the internet changed the way in which we gain our knowledge of politics? And what impact will this have on traditional news media, and indeed our local democracy?"

The debate continues the University's 'Making Politics Matter' campaign, an initiative aiming to engage the population of Kent more effectively with political debate. The event is being co-hosted by Christ Church's Department of Media.

Co-organiser, Dr Ágnes Gulyás, Principal Lecturer at the Department of Media said "Our research show that regional and local media are going through a transformation because of technological changes, market developments and the economic crisis. In such turbulent times it is important to consider the impact these changes will have on platforms for local debates."

The event will take place at 6.30pm-9pm, at Canterbury Christ Church University's Powell Lecture Theatre, North Holmes Campus. It is free to attend and open to all members of the public. Refreshments will be provided.

If you would like to attend, please email: politics@canterbury.ac.uk