Stephen Pound, Former Labour MP and Vice President of the Catholic Union, will deliver a Catholic Union Pub Talk on Monday 7 April. Entitled ‘I leap over the wall – escaping from Parliament’ the event is open to all, but booking is essential as spaces will be limited.
Stephen Pound says: “The good news is that there is life beyond politics. Ex MPs, a growing number in light of the 2024 election, are an exclusive club with much to offer. I’m looking forward to the Catholic Union’s Pub Talk and giving insight into the nature of politics from different positions and perspectives. I hope that all sitting and ex MPs have the Catholic Union on their radar”.
Born on the same day as the NHS, Stephen Pound left school at sixteen to go to sea. He later worked as a bus conductor and hospital porter before gaining a place at LSE where he became Union President and graduating BSc.(Econ) in 1982. Working as a housing officer he was an Ealing councillor from 1982-1998 (Mayor in 1995) and he was elected as MP for Ealing north from 1997 to retirement in 2019 serving continuously on the Northern Ireland Select Committee and then as Shadow Minister of State. One of his brothers is Abbot Rufus Pound of the Cistercian house in Roscrea.
Catholic Union President, Baroness Hollins, says: “We are delighted that Stephen has agreed to give our Pub Talk. A fast talking, quick witted and engaging speaker, Stephen will pack a lot into his talk, and I am sure the audience will be bursting with questions. We are fortunate to have Stephen as a Vice President of the Catholic Union, he is passionate about faith in public life and we look forward to hearing his reflections”.
The Catholic Union’s Pub Talks have proved a popular series of events with people in public life exploring a subject of particular interest to Catholics. Previous speakers include Lord Alton, Ruth Kelly, Catherine McKinnell, Jon Cruddas, Sir Iain Duncan Smith, Ann Widdecombe and Lord Glasman. Those interested in attending the Pub Talk with Stephen Pound on Monday 7 April at the Windsor Castle pub, Victoria, should book their tickets early, doors will open at 18.00.
The event is free to attend but donations are always welcome.