THE speakers at next month’s Gazette-sponsored EU referendum debate in Chipping Sodbury have been announced.

Robert Buckland, MP for South Swindon, will speak against leaving the EU while MEP for the East of England, David Campbell Bannerman, will argue why the UK should leave.

The pair will go head-to-head to debate the benefits of staying in and leaving Europe at the event, organised by Thornbury and Yate MP Luke Hall, at Chipping Sodbury Town Hall on Friday, June 3.

Electors will go to the polls on June 23 to decide on the country’s future in the EU.

Mr Hall said: “I’m delighted that the event is coming together and that local people will have this opportunity to hear from both sides arguments before the 23rd of June.

“I am certain that both of our speakers will be able to offer robust arguments both in favour of remaining and leaving, so I hope the event will be helpful as people make up their minds.”

Mr Hall said he was organising the debate to allow local people the chance to hear both sides of the argument and ask questions which will help them make an informed choice.

Mr Hall, who has already announced his support for Prime Minister David Cameron’s Stronger In campaign, will chair the debate but said he was not intending to use the event to impart his personal views but instead wants to provide constituents with answers.

““This issue is bigger than party politics and is one of the most important decisions this country will face in our lifetimes,” said Mr Hall.

“I will be neutral at the event.”

As well as a talk by each speaker outlining their reasons to stay or leave, the free event will include discussion on four main topics; immigration, economy, sovereignty and trade with submitted questions from residents. There will also be an open question and answer session for any questions remaining.

Pre-registration is required and residents are encouraged to submit any questions they have when they register.

Visit lukehall.org.uk for further details.