THINK Debate: Citizens Income For or Against?

Universal Basic Income (UBI) is a policy that would give every citizen a regular income to cover living costs, regardless of their means and their employment status. Proponents argue that it would reduce poverty and increase working conditions, wellbeing and creativity while critics maintain that it is too expensive or even immoral. UBI is supported by the Green Party, the Liberal Democrats and SNP and the pandemic seems to have increased its popular support. In 2020, a poll by YouGov found support for UBI at 51%, with only 24% against. The same year, 170 MPs and Lords signed a proposal urging the government to introduce UBI during the coronavirus pandemic.

Our Speakers:

Councillor Adam Fox: Adam is leader of the Labour Group, Labour & Co-operative Ward Councillor for Old Heath, The Hythe & Rowhedge, Colchester Borough Council

Adam Fox is a Labour and Co-operative Councillor in Colchester and is the Leader of the Labour Group. He has previously been the council’s Cabinet Member with responsibility for Housing and Chaired the Governance & Audit Committee. Adam has worked for a number of charities and social enterprises dedicated to improving the lives of young people, and people with disabilities and health conditions

Catherine Rowett: Catherine is a member of the Green Party, Norwich and former  MEP

Professor Catherine Rowett currently holds a teaching and research position in philosophy at the University of East Anglia. From May 2019 to January 2020 she served as Green Party MEP for the East of England, participated in debates and votes concerning Brexit and the European Green Deal, and oversaw files on freight transport and aviation. 
Catherine is currently Green Party spokesperson for work, employment and social security, and deputy coordinator of the Eastern Region Green Party. She lives in Norwich.

Joining Info:

Our THINK debates are open to all: Join us in person in Ivor Crewe Lecture Hall B or via Zoom (You will need to register your Zoom place).

THINK Seminars form part of the Big Essex Award so don’t forget to tap in!

Important information - this event is a COVID-secure event

Keeping Safe on Campus   

In line with Government and Public Health England guidance on the COVID-19 pandemic, the University has introduced procedures and guidance to ensure the health, safety and wellbeing of our community on campus.

University of Essex Staff and Students 

• Moodle training 
• Covid-age health assessment
• Staff agreement
• encouragement to have been vaccinated
• encouragement for a negative LFT on the day of the event - if not within previous 72 hours
• encouragement not to attend campus if positive, symptomatic or living with someone positive
• encouragement to wear face coverings when not actually eating or drinking

Visitors to the University of Essex

• encouragement to have been vaccinated
• encouragement for a negative LFT on the day of the event - if not within previous 72 hours
• encouragement not to attend campus if positive, symptomatic or living with someone positive
• encouragement to wear face coverings when not actually eating or drinking
• contact details to be taken via the NHS App QR code or manual details retained for track & trace purposes in the event of an outbreak

Any further questions please email events@essex.ac.uk

Visitor information can be found on our website