Modern Studies teachers from across Scotland are likely to witness at least one very heated debate tomorrow, 2 November, at their Association's Annual Conference in Glasgow.

One of the highlights of the day will be a debate between Tom Clarke MP and Donald Findlay QC on the 'New world order and global security', covering issues such as the post-September 11 geo-political landscape, citizenship in a global context, and the prospect of a new Gulf War. Given both contributors' reputations for forthright and controversial views, this session is likely to prove both stimulating and provocative.

The Modern Studies Association Conference takes place this year in the impressive surroundings of the University of Glasgow. As well as Clark and Findlay, there will be contributions from, among others, Alan Clements of Wark / Clements, Professor Lindsay Paterson from the University of Edinburgh, Guardian journalist and broadcaster Gary Younge, Harry Burns, Director of Public Health for Greater Glasgow, and Catherine Stihler MEP. There will also be a series of practical workshops on Higher Still Assessment, and a focus on education for citizenship.

Gavin Clark, Chairperson of the Modern Studies Association said,

'We are looking forward to a very informative and worthwhile day. More than most subjects, Modern Studies requires classroom practitioners to keep abreast of a whole range of domestic and international issues. We have secured contributions from some of the leading experts in their respective fields, and we will be rounding off the day with the much-anticipated head-to-head debate between Tom Clarke and Donald Findlay. On a personal note I am particularly looking forward to chairing that session!'

Harry Blee, Senior Lecturer in the Faculty of Education at Glasgow University and the host of the Conference, added,

'I am delighted to welcome the MSA Conference to the University of Glasgow, and to the Faculty of Education in particular. This is a most welcome partnership between Secondary and Higher Education in Scotland. The Faculty is currently exploring issues of citizenship and global citizenship, and the MSA has a long-standing reputation in the development of these themes with both teachers and pupils.'

Media Relations Office (media@gla.ac.uk)

The Modern Studies Association is the professional body representing Modern Studies teachers in Scotland.

The Conference will take place from 0930 to 1545 on Saturday 2 November. Registration takes place from 0845 in Hunter Hall East, University of Glasgow.

Media contacts at the University of Glasgow are Harry Blee or Alan McClosky on 0141 330 3424.

The debate takes place at 2.30pm ? 3.30pm.

First published: 1 November 2002