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Two-Way Topic , 1956-1964

 Sub-Series

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Dates

  • Creation: 1956-1964

Language of Materials

  • English

Full range of shelfmarks:

PUB 196/1-2

Biographical / Historical

Two-Way Topic began on 1 Oct 1956, and followed on from the earlier Topic for To-day (1946-1951), for which, see above.

The purpose of the Two-Way Topic series is summarised in an article by Joan Barnes published in the July 1957 issue of Objective - the Journal of the Conservative Political Centre [issue no. 25]. In it she states that, 'A Two-Way Topic is issued on the first of each month. It is a four-page leaflet (originally roneoed, but now printed) which gives background information on a subject of urgent topical interest, followed by a short reading list and questions for discussion. The remaining pages are left blank for groups to give their answers to the questions. A copy is sent each month to every CPC member and discussion groups can obtain additional copies from their constituency agent. The choice of subject is made at the latest possible moment - sometimes the very morning that the topic has to be written and sent off to the printers. The questions are designed to discover people's general attitude to the subject under discussion, to collect their suggestions and ideas on future policy and to stimulate thought and discussion beyond the material contained in the topic and, we hope, beyond the confines of the discussion groups itself.

Both Ten-Minute Topic and its supplement from 1960, Two-Way Topic (for which, see below) appear to have ceased publication following the 1964 General Election.

Related Materials

Summaries of responses to some of the Two-Way Topic's have survived - see Shelfmark: CCO 4/9/111 and Series CCO 150.

Repository Details

Part of the Bodleian Libraries Repository

Contact:
Weston Library
Broad Street
Oxford OX1 3BG United Kingdom