After Dinner Speakers: Brian Walden, Jane Sixsmith, Lesley Joseph

Brian Walden is a former Labour Member of Parliament, a well-respected broadcaster and a highly respected historian. Brian is perhaps best known for his commanding interview technique. President of the Oxford Union in 1957, he became a Universiy Lecturer and subsequently a Labour MP for Birmingham All Saints from 1964-74, and Birmingham Ladywood from 1974 – 1977. He became presenter of London Weekend Television’s ‘Weekend World in 1987 following his reputation a confident political performer. This was followed by the successful ‘Walden Interview’ (ITV – 1988 – 89) And ‘Walden’ (LWT 1990-1994). Brian has won many awards for his mastery of the in-depth interview such as the Shell International Award in 1982, the BAFTA Richard Dimbleby Award in 1985 and The Aims of Industry Special Free Enterprise Award in 1990. Broadcasting aside, he has also proved to be a very successful writer and was columnist for the Evening Standard from1983 – 86.