Rod Quantock to host McDebate

Rod Quantock to host McDebate

BY JORGE JORQUERA

MELBOURNE — Some of the world's best minds and sharpest wits will grapple with the crucial issue of our time here on August 25, when they debate "Whether McDonald's should run the World Bank".

Comedian Rod Quantock will chair the light-hearted debate, which will also feature guest appearances from the Melbourne Workers Theatre Rapid Response Team, live music, a delicious meal and door prizes.

The event is part of preparations for protests and counter-events against the World Economic Forum, which meets at the Crown Casino September 11 to 13. Event organisers hope that the McDebate will be a welcome and fun relief for those who are helping to organise the protests, as well as a unique and entertaining introduction for those who want to find out more about the politics of global institutions such as the World Bank.

Event organiser Arun Pradhan told Green Left Weekly, "The World Bank has been crucial in deepening poverty in the Third World. At the same time, McDonald's has proved itself as one of capitalism's 'best and fairest' by owning more key real estate than the Catholic Church, often expanding at the cost of workers' rights and the environment. The obvious question is: should the two come together?"

At the end of the night the winner will be judged by audience acclamation. The McDebate will be at Brunswick Town Hall on Friday, August 25. Phone (03) 9639 8622 or email <melbourne@greenleft.org.au> for bookings and information.

From GLW issue 416