The King’s Union

A King's Union debate in the College Chapel

Next debate

“This House would rearm the West”

Friday 13th November 2026, 19:00

Starts in 13 days, 23 hours

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Membership

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The Union in numbers · 2026–27 so far

debates this year: 5; debates this year
speakers this year: 23; speakers this year
votes cast this year: 670; votes cast this year

Who we are

The King’s Union was established in November 2025 as a chamber for public debate within King’s College London.

The Union regularly entertains motions on the most salient issues of the day, ranging from intervention in Venezuela to the abolition of the monarchy.

Debates traditionally feature three speakers each on the proposition and opposition, ranging from students to notable visiting speakers. Audience members get a chance to pose points of information and ask questions to each side before a final vote.

The Union was founded on the principles of freedom of speech and expression, as well as mutual respect in debate. The Society upholds the highest standard of civility, which is necessary to facilitate the free and constructive exchange of ideas.

On top of this, the Union serves as a focal point for student social life, hosting movie screenings, pub crawls, and more.

“The Union exists, above all else, to serve the College’s body of students, staff, and alumni. It’s a place where you can speak your mind and be treated with mutual respect. There’s a place for everybody here.”
Mustafa DassuFounder & President

Past Debates How King’s votes: every result →

This House would abolish private schools

20 October 2026

Following the government’s decision in 2024 to apply VAT to private school fees, calls remain for further action to be taken to bring independent schools into the state sector in order to reduce societal inequalities. Critics allege that private schools are anachronistic and have no place in a fairer, twenty-first century Britain. Are private schools really unethical engines of elitism, or are they critical for aspirational families and educational diversity?

Result · Carried82–53

This House would levy a two-percent wealth tax on assets above £10 million

13 October 2026

Against the backdrop of a cost of living crisis and rising inequality, calls for a wealth tax from politicians, academics and activists have grown significantly, with members of Parliament from the Greens, Labour and Liberal Democrats signing parliamentary motions in support of the policy. Is a wealth tax what Britain needs to fund its public services and create a more equal society, or would it punish wealth creators and prove to be unworkable in practice?

Result · Carried105–41

This House would not march on October 7th

6 October 2026

Result · Carried62–61

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Speakers

Who has spoken at the Union

All speakers and their debates

Principal partner

Free Speech Union

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Gallery

From the chamber

First time?

Questions, answered.

Who can come to a debate?

Anyone. King’s students, students from other universities and members of the public are all welcome. Each debate has tickets set aside for King’s students and for external guests.

Do tickets cost anything?

Our debates are free. Places are limited, so you still need a ticket: get one through the “Get tickets” button on the debate’s page.

I’ve requested a ticket. What happens next?

The committee approves ticket requests, and you’ll get an email from Luma once yours is confirmed. Bring it with you on the night.

Do I need to be a member?

No. Anyone can come, but members have tickets reserved for them, so they’re more likely to get in when a debate is busy. Membership is £10 through KCLSU. If you’re not at King’s, associate membership is also £10 and has almost all the same benefits.

Member benefits →

Can I speak?

Yes. After the main speeches, the debate is opened to the floor and anyone in the audience can make a point. If you’d like to be one of the main speakers, get in touch.

How to debate →

How long does a debate last?

About two hours, including the vote at the end.

Is there a dress code?

There’s no dress code, but we recommend dressing formally.

What does “Chatham House Rule” mean?

Some debates are held under the Chatham House Rule. You can use what is said, but not say who said it. For these debates we don’t publish the speakers.

Can I suggest a motion?

Please do. Every suggestion is read by the committee.

Propose a motion →

Something else?

For access requirements or any other question, email operations@kingsunion.org.uk and we’ll get back to you.

The debate doesn’t
end in the chamber.

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