Crossing the Political Divide w/ Clive Lewis MP
Join Byline Times on May 11th for 'The Lure of Opposition' – intimate, electric, and much-needed discussion across the political divide.
On May 11th at The Cockpit, two people will walk on stage believing in irreconcilable versions of reality. Their perspectives are diametrically opposed – and only one of them can possibly be right. Or so they may both believe.
The first is Clive Lewis – the backbench Labour MP for Norwich South, whose politics are shaped by climate breakdown, racial justice, identity, and democracy. A defender of multiculturalism and a critic of Britain’s imperial past – and the systems he believes still echo it.
But where Lewis sees a country that must confront its past and radically reshape its future, his childhood friend Darren sees one that has already changed too much – and not for the better. He believes the country’s identity is being diluted by immigration, and that change has come too fast, too imposed, and too often at the expense of people like him.
We’re told that people like this can’t possibly see eye-to-eye. That divides this deep just can’t be bridged.
So what actually happens when they sit down face to face?
The Lure of Opposition, the latest instalment of our Out of the Comfort Zone series at The Cockpit, aims to find out. Join us on May 11th at 19:30.
Later in the evening, Otto English shares a more intimate story: a friendship fractured by the Brexit divide – one that was never repaired before it was too late. A reminder of how deeply political rupture can reach into our closest relationships.
We’ll also hear from director Liz Smith on her documentary The Conspiracists, exploring the pull of conspiratorial thinking in an age of polarisation.
The audience – you – will be encouraged to participate and engage in all of the night’s featured discussions.
At Byline Times, we believe different kinds of conversation are still possible – even now. That when we meet as people, not as labels or opposing tribes, something unexpected and serendipitous can emerge.
In a landscape of echo chambers and performative debate, this is something different. We hope you can make it.
What reviewers say about our ‘Out of the Comfort Zone’ events:
“I’ve been attending Byline Times events at The Cockpit regularly, and it’s become my absolute favourite spot in London for meaningful discussions. Journalists from Byline Times dive into everything from media ethics to global politics, opening up topics that you won’t find in mainstream news. The atmosphere is intimate and electric – perfect for sparking ideas and connecting with like-minded people.”