George Orwell Lecture 2004

Just Law: the Changing Face of Law and Why it Matters

By Helena Kennedy, QC

Date: Thursday, 9 December 2004, 5.00pm
Venue: Lecture Theatre, Clore Management Centre, Torrington Square

Followed by a drinks reception.
Admission is free: To reserve a place, call 020 7631 6571 or email events@bbk.ac.uk

Helena Kennedy QC is one of Britain's leading lawyers. She has spent her professional life giving a voice to those who have least power within the system, championing civil liberties and promoting human rights.

She has used many public platforms - including the House of Lords, to which she was elevated in 1997 - to argue with passion, wit and humanity for social justice. She has also written and broadcast on a wide range of issues, from medical negligence to the rights of women and children.

In her latest book, Just Law: The changing face of justice - and why it matters to us all, Helena Kennedy describes the current retreat from the rule of law and civil liberties, both of which she says are being subverted for short-term gains.

Roundly challenging the record of modern governments with regard to fundamental democratic rights, Kennedy insists that we return to the values of equality and fairness and a respect for human dignity. She argues that, in the last 20 years, we have seen a steady erosion of civil liberties, culminating today in extraordinary legislation that wholly undermines long-established freedoms.

Contact:
Catherine Doherty, Media and Publicity Officer
External Relations, Birkbeck, University of London, Malet Street, Bloomsbury, London WC1E 7HX
Tel 020 7631 6569
Fax 020 7631 6351
Email c.doherty@bbk.ac.uk

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