The Britain in Europe Conference will discuss what an EU exit following 2017’s planned referendum would mean for the nation, whilst also considering whether or not the media portrays Europe fairly to the public.

The full day event will feature a number of high-profile speakers, including the likes of Lord Roger Liddle, Chairman of Policy Network, David Charter, Berlin Correspondent for The Times, and Vice Chancellor Bill Rammell. Luton North MP Kelvin Hopkins will also be in attendance.

Dr Paul Rowinski, Senior Lecturer in Journalism, who organised the event in conjunction with the Centre for International Media Analysis, Research and Consultancy, said:

“Europe is in crisis, precipitated by problems with the Euro. Euroscepticism across the continent, after last Spring's EU elections, is at an all-time high and nowhere more so than in the UK.

“This public policy conference will be a timely, open and balanced debate about Britain's place in Europe and more specifically, the portrayal and communication of Europe in Britain by politicians, journalists and social media professionals.

“Are the public well informed about what the EU does and how Britain contributes, is penalised and gains?”

Held at the University’s Postgraduate & CPD Centre at the Luton campus, the conference runs from 8.30am to 4.30pm. It is open to everyone, from university staff and students, to delegates and the general public.

For more information on the conference and to view a programme, visit www.beds.ac.uk/bie

Registration is a must and anyone interested should email britainineurope@beds.ac.uk