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- Oxford News By Hana Edition 59
Oxford News By Hana Edition 59
Oxford Outlook: The Oxford Union. Outspoken, outrageous and occasionally absurd
Rhidian Wynn Davies
June 11, 2026
Oxford News by HANA - Edition 59
Oxford Outlook: The Oxford Union. Outspoken, outrageous and occasionally absurd
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Oxford Outlook: The Oxford Union. Outspoken, outrageous and occasionally absurd
The Oxford Union is an institution that often fails to do itself any favours. Independent of Oxford University, the Union manages to shoot itself in the foot on a regular basis.
It purports to be a bastion of free speech and very often lives up to that (self-gilded) reputation. But often not.
The latest foot wound comes courtesy of the current Oxford Union President’s witterings on a WhatsApp group. Arwa Elrayess described the Hamas attack on Israel in October 2023 as “proportional”. It was a comment not universally appreciated.
To be fair to Ms Elrayess, her full comments contained a little more balance and consideration. But by describing the slaughter and kidnapping of more than 1,000 Israelis as “proportional” the damage had been done. In the eyes of the British media. In the eyes of the British Jewish community.
Israel’s reaction to the October attack was savage, brutal, and sometimes cruel. Widely condemned. Free speech is a fantastic feature of the free world, but sometimes silence is golden. Why stir an already steaming, bubbling pot of hatred on a digital platform?
The perils of WhatsApp. It takes just one (out of about 100 members of that message group) to take umbrage. Then you’re suddenly the story. An intelligent young woman missteps into a minefield of controversy and conflict.
Perhaps it would be better to reserve the debating for the debating chamber, rather than resort to applications like WhatsApp. Encrypted? Yes. Safe? Not on your nellie.
Ms Elrayess faces a motion of no confidence in her presidency of the Union. One hopes she survives. She is clearly an inspirational and thoughtful person. But she needs to eat a mouthful or two of humble pie.
People in their late teens and early twenties pontificating upon world affairs is to be commended. But, just occasionally, they need to pontificate in moderation. Fuelling the flames helps neither side in the long run.
Of course, the Oxford Union has suffered lower moments. In 1933, the motion “This House would not, in any circumstances, fight for King and Country” was passed.
Fortunately, six years later, millions of Britons and their allies disagreed. And the evil of Hitler and his Nazi cronies tasted defeat.
Rhidian Wynn Davies/ Guest Editor in Chief
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Databox
Oxford and Cambridge. Two peas in a pod? Rival universities. The Boat Race. Books and brains. Key members of England’s burgeoning tech arc.
Which two cities could be more similar? Well, up to a point. According to the Office for National Statistics, Cambridge is only the 19th most similar city to Oxford. A surprising stat. As ever, the devil’s in the data. So, let’s dive into it.
Population (2024)
Oxford: 166,034. Cambridge: 149,352.
Not a huge difference, but Oxford is clearly more populated than Cambridge.
Five year population change (2024)
Oxford: 3.3%. Cambridge: 4.3%.
The light blues nosing ahead and starting to catch the dark blues.
Median age (2024)
Oxford: 31 years. Cambridge: 31 years.
Bang level! Both cities are relatively young. But to boast exactly the same median age is uncanny.
Employment rate (2023)
Oxford: 80.8%. Cambridge: 76.3%.
Not much in it, but pull your socks up Cambridge.
Average house price (March 2026)
Oxford: £473,994. Cambridge: £471,532.
Very close. But clearly the charm of the Cotswolds is slightly more appealing than the footwear required for the Fens.
More on this next week. But here’s the strangest stat with which to finish. While Cambridge is the 19th most similar area to Oxford, Oxford is the seventh most similar area to Cambridge.
Pick the bones out of that one. Demographics and dizzying data. Let’s just agree they are both beautiful places and a credit to the nation.
Scroll down for property news, sport and things to do in Oxford this weekend…
Top Stories From Oxford This Week
Sir Mick Jagger performs impromptu pub gig in Oxford BBC - Mick Jagger's recent surprise visit to the Half Moon pub in St Clements has thrilled fans and locals, as the venue is renowned for its vibrant music scene and history of hosting emerging talent. This sighting underscores the enduring bond between iconic musicians and intimate settings, celebrating the roots of rock and roll. |
Woman's garden in Wheatley flooded with sewage for six years Bbc - Judy Washington faces a persistent problem of sewage bubbling up through her garden drain after heavy rains, posing health risks and disrupting her gardening efforts. To tackle this issue, she may need to reach out to local authorities for sewer maintenance, investigate blockages, or make landscaping changes to enhance drainage. |
Clarkson's Diddly Squat farm set to host Cereals 2026 BBC News - June 9, 2026 Thousands of farmers are set to converge on Jeremy Clarkson's Diddly Squat farm for the Cereals 2026 trade show, promising significant traffic disruptions in Chadlington. Clarkson has assured local residents of the event's potential benefits for the agriculture sector and local communities, amidst ongoing challenges faced by the industry. |
Leftwing US pair refused entry to UK will address Oxford Union remotely The Guardian - June 3, 2026 Cenk Uygur and Hasan Piker, banned from the UK for being "not conducive to the public good," will still address the Oxford Union via livestream, sparking criticism from free speech advocates who emphasize the importance of open dialogue. The Home Office's lack of transparency regarding the ban has raised concerns about free speech and the rights of controversial figures. |
I bet the Oxford trans brigade haven’t read their cancelled professor’s book Student protesters often express strong opposition to certain texts or ideas, yet their critiques can lack depth and nuance, relying on slogans rather than informed analysis. To cultivate meaningful dialogue and effect real change, it’s essential for activists to engage deeply with the materials they challenge. |
Oxford University and Moderna launch trials of vaccine that could prevent cancer A new vaccine is being developed for patients with Lynch syndrome, aiming to provide targeted protection against colorectal and ovarian cancers by enhancing the immune response to cancer cells. Early research shows promising results, highlighting its potential as a breakthrough in cancer prevention strategies for this high-risk group. |
Woman arrested after Oxford 'assault' on female emergency worker Yahoo News - June 11, 2026 A woman has been arrested in Oxford for allegedly assaulting a female emergency worker on Cowley Road early Thursday morning. Thames Valley Police responded swiftly, taking the suspect into custody on charges of assault and actual bodily harm. |
PCC warns police shake-up could mean ‘years of chaos’ Yahoo News - June 11, 2026 Thames Valley Police and Crime Commissioner Matthew Barber has voiced strong concerns over the UK Government's proposed policing reforms, warning they could undermine public safety and accountability. He argues that the focus should be on police funding rather than restructuring forces, and he encourages the public to share their views through a consultation available on his website. |
Oxford 'patriots' call on police to kneel for Henry Nowak Oxford Mail - June 5, 2026 A peaceful gathering of around 20 people, organized by Aiden Noble, took place at Carfax Tower on June 5 to demand justice for Henry Nowak, who was murdered by Vickrum Digwa. The event sparked discussions on police accountability and perceived "two-tier policing," drawing comparisons to the George Floyd protests and eliciting mixed reactions from officials and activists alike. |
Three arrested in Oxford roads safety operation BBC News - June 6, 2026 A motorist was arrested for drug possession and using a mobile phone while driving in Oxford, following alerts about two youths on a stolen moped who had just stolen a motorcycle. The stolen bike was returned to its owner, while the young suspects face multiple charges. |
Arrest for 'immigration offences' near to Oxfordshire market town Yahoo News - June 11, 2026 Thames Valley Police conducted a proactive spot check near Thame on June 10, leading to the arrest of a person for suspected immigration offences and a woman for allegedly assaulting an emergency worker. The rural crime unit reiterated its commitment to ensuring safety in countryside communities through ongoing patrols. |
Manhunt for bald man after 'assault' outside Oxford cafe Oxford Mail - June 4, 2026 Thames Valley Police are investigating an assault that occurred on New Inn Hall Street and are seeking information on a bald white male suspect in a dark green hooded jumper. Anyone with details is urged to contact the police at 101, referencing case number 43260174418, or can remain anonymous by reaching out to Crimestoppers. |
Police seize dozens of illegal electric two-wheelers in major Oxford crackdown Yahoo News - June 6, 2026 Thames Valley Police launched a successful crackdown in Cowley and Summertown, seizing 20 illegal electric bikes and motorbikes linked to fast food delivery riders, issuing 20 tickets for insurance violations, and arresting two youths on a stolen moped. The operation also led to the confiscation of two cars and the arrest of a disqualified driver charged with possession of cocaine. |
Idris Elba enjoys Oxfordshire farm getaway with Cotswolds trip Yahoo News - June 9, 2026 Sir Idris Elba and his wife, Lady Sabrina Elba, enjoy idyllic getaways in Oxfordshire, where they relax on a four-acre farm and indulge in music-making. They often visit the acclaimed Bull at Burford, a historic inn and restaurant recognized among the UK's top dining spots, where Elba has even donated his personal poker table. |
Oxford Sport
Oxford Outlook: Leather on willow
Things are looking up for Oxfordshire’s best two teams in the Home Counties Cricket Premier League. This despite the fact that it’s June and so raining after the panic of an English heatwave that had Greeks chuckling into their ouzos. Call that hot?
Home Counties Cricket Premier League - Division One
Oxford Downs CC
The Downs are up to second in the table (level on points with leaders High Wycombe). In a weather affected match on Saturday, they screwed out a decent win away against struggling Slough CC.
The men in blue won by five wickets, scoring 122 runs off just 28 overs. It was not a match that the editor of cricketing almanack, Wisden, will dwell upon in his next edition, one suspects. Still, a win’s a win and the Downs bagged 20 points as a result.
Banbury CC
Banbury had even worse luck with the weather on Saturday. Away to Wokingham CC, their match was cancelled. Although it still counts as a fixture so a meagre seven points for each side were handed out.
The non-event leaves Banbury fourth in the table. So not a complete washout.
Division One: top of the table
1 High Wycombe CC (87 points)
2 Oxford Downs CC (87 points)
3 Finchampstead (74 points)
4 Banbury CC (73 points)
5 Harefield CC (72 points)
We are only five rounds into an 18-match season. But both Oxford Downs and Banbury are going well. The Downs are within touching distance of top spot and Banbury could snatch third. Two Oxfordshire teams in the top three when stumps are drawn at the end of the summer would be a real result.
Sports Desk
Property news
Diversified Oxfordshire farmland goes on sale for £26m Agri Investor - June 9, 2026 The Nuneham Estate in Oxfordshire is on the market for £26 million, offering an annual income of £400,000 from a mix of farmland, housing, and commercial properties. Interested buyers can sign up for free to gain access to exclusive insights and analysis about this unique investment opportunity. |
UK government takes stakes in Kraken, Wayve, and Oxford Quantum Circuits to retain high-growth startups Crypto Briefing - June 10, 2026 The UK government is bolstering its tech sovereignty by investing in key startups, including a significant £100 million stake in Oxford Quantum Circuits, which recently raised £260 million in Europe's largest private quantum funding round. This strategic investment aims to retain talent and intellectual property in vital sectors like quantum computing and AI, signalling strong viability for startups backed by government capital. |
Princess' riverside Oxfordshire mansion has over £6 million price fall Yahoo News - June 8, 2026 Newington House, a stunning 17th-century manor in Oxfordshire, has seen its price drop to £9.95 million after separating its listings, offering a luxurious retreat on a 42-acre estate complete with lush gardens, a swimming pool, and historic charm. Once a gathering place for literary greats like Virginia Woolf, this exquisite property features ten bedrooms and a unique island, making it an ideal sanctuary for nature enthusiasts. |
Oxford 'third most expensive' in UK for first-time buyers Oxford Mail - June 11, 2026 Young adults in Oxford are facing a 5% increase in average home prices for their first properties, now at £367,503, prompting the city council to propose a plan for 40,000 new homes by 2040 to tackle the affordability crisis. While some regions see rapid price growth, cautious tenants in pricier markets are experiencing flat growth amidst rising mortgage rates and economic uncertainties. |
Oxfordshire’s controversial Parking Standards create debate At a recent Oxfordshire Developers Forum meeting, transport manager Michael Deadman outlined new parking standards mandating car-free developments near public transport and schools, raising concerns among developers about the housing market's adaptability. Stakeholders emphasised the need for collaboration to address viability issues and the importance of investing in active travel infrastructure to support these changes. |
What’s on in Oxford this weekend?
Totally 90s Festival – Cutteslowe Park (Saturday & Sunday)
Get ready for a full weekend of nostalgia as Totally 90s Festival takes over Cutteslowe Park. Expect tribute acts celebrating everyone from The Prodigy and Eminem to Foo Fighters, alongside retro gaming, fairground rides, street food and family-friendly entertainment. Running from 1pm until late on both days, it looks set to be one of Oxford's biggest outdoor events of the weekend.
PHYSFEST 2026 – University of Oxford (Saturday 10:45am–4pm)
A fascinating day for anyone interested in science and technology. Hosted by the School of Physics at the University of Bristol's counterpart? No—Oxford's own physics community, PHYSFEST features research talks, expert panels, laboratory tours and networking opportunities. Open to students, alumni and the general public, it's one of the city's most interesting intellectual events this weekend.
Legally Blonde: The Musical – New Theatre Oxford (Final Weekend)
The hit West End and Broadway musical arrives in Oxford for its final performances this weekend. Based on the much-loved film, the production follows Elle Woods as she swaps California glamour for Harvard Law School in a feel-good story packed with big songs, comedy and energy.
Arcadians at 50: Acis & Galatea – University Church of St Mary the Virgin (Saturday 7pm)
Celebrating their 50th anniversary, Oxford's Arcadian Singers perform Handel's pastoral masterpiece Acis & Galatea in the stunning surroundings of the University Church. A special evening for classical music lovers and one of the cultural highlights of the weekend.
Daniel Lebhardt Piano Recital – Holywell Music Room (Sunday 11:15am)
One of Oxford's most beautiful venues hosts acclaimed pianist Daniel Lebhardt for a programme featuring Mozart, Schumann and Brahms. The Holywell Music Room, Europe's oldest purpose-built concert hall, provides a perfect setting for a Sunday morning concert.
All photos are credited to Mark Skipworth unless otherwise specified.
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