Our membership and committee is open to, and includes, both men and women. Our only entry requirement is that prospective new members are asked to attend two or three meetings before being invited to stand for election - which is normally a formality.



The key distinction between the Birmingham and Edgbaston Debating Society (BEDS) and the 'grittier' chambers of local and national political debate is that our essential character is one of a structured but friendly argument between friends. Our disagreements in debate are often profound, usually forceful, but invariably entertaining and never persona.

We encourage all members to bring guests and, indeed, this is by far the most common source of new members. Prospective members and guests can contact any member of the society for more information about the society and forthcoming debates. Alternatively, you can contact the Membership Secretary by the means listed on our Contact Us page.

We are always happy to welcome new members - our only membership criterion is that the applicant has a love of, and a willingness to participate in, the debating process!