British Parliamentary style is the internationally recognised debating format, and is seen as the most dynamic, spontaneous and engaging style of debating. It is the format used at the premier international debating event: the World Universities Debating Championship. British Parliamentary style requires debaters to construct comprehensive, logical arguments in a short space of time, to present their arguments with flare (and often humour!) and to respond immediately to impromptu questions raised by members of the opposing teams.

General rules of Parliamentary debating

Advantages
ĦEPromotes an international perspective and understanding of global issues.
ĦEImproves critical analysis and communication skills
ĦEDevelops spontaneity and fluency in speaking
ĦEUsed in international competitions, such as the Worlds Universities Debating Championship
Format
ĦEFour teams: two teams on both the Government (affirmative) and Opposition (negative)
ĦETeams on the same side (Government or Opposition) are separate, competing against each other, and must have different arguments
ĦETwo persons on each team, each with a specific role in the debate
ĦESpeeches are 7 minutes long
ĦESpeakers should accept and respond immediately to "Points of Information" (impromptu questions raised by opposing teams)

The Motion
ĦEReleased 15 minutes before the debate
ĦECan be on any international issue
ĦECase-building cannot be wholly confined to a particular region, country or time if not stated in the motion

Scoring
ĦE 50% matter (content) and 50% manner (style)