Langham to speak at Oxford Union

Rex Features

The Thick Of It star Chris Langham will address the Oxford Union in May.

Langham, who was convicted of downloading child pornography last year, is the latest controversial figure to give a speech to the student body.

He will speak about his treatment at the hands of the media in the run-up to his court case last September. The actor was jailed for 10 months on 15 counts of making indecent images of children, but only served three months.

Other recent speakers at the Union have included BNP leader Nick Griffin, historian David Irving and popstar Michael Jackson.

Commenting on their choice, Union President Ben Tansey said: "We do not invite speakers for publicity.

"We were recommended Chris Langham and we thought he was a very respected figure in his profession being a BAFTA winner. I know some people might have a few reservations but he has served his time in jail.

"He will be talking about the run-up to his conviction and how he has been vilified in the media so quickly."

Michele Elliot, founder of the Kidscape children's charity, said it was "very disappointing" that the Union had chosen to invite Langham.