Perspectives on the current financial situation were offered by Tony Benn when he visited the University.

The longtime Labour politician and grass-roots activist came to Cloth Hall Court as a guest speaker, as part of the UK Centre of Events Management (UKCEM) seminar series.

'Who runs Britain - the markets or the voters?' offered an insight into the waning of political influence compared with that of banks and other financial institutions.

Tony Benn retired from the House of Commons in May 2001, after fifty years in Parliament, to devote more time to politics.

He is the longest serving Labour MP in the history of the party and held Cabinet posts in the Wilson and Callaghan governments of the 60s and 70s.

Known for his articulate, perceptive and colourful commentary on society, his political speeches have enthralled many audiences.