"The measure of our country's respect for free expression is our willingness to allow it for the most objectionable and offensive lawful speech" - Evan Harris, Liberal Democrat MP
BBC: Protests are expected later outside the Oxford Union when two controversial figures arrive for a free speech event.
Nick Griffin, leader of the British National Party, and David Irving - jailed for denying the Holocaust - are to take part in an Oxford Union debate.
Their inclusion has led to objections from student groups and MP Dr Julian Lewis has resigned his membership of the debating union in protest.
The Oxford Union says it is important to give people of all views a platform.
A rally against the inclusion of the two men was held last week with speakers including Holocaust survivors.
The decision to give Mr Griffin and Mr Irving a platform has also been condemned by the president of the Oxford Student Union and race equalities watchdog Trevor Phillips.
Mr Griffin has repeatedly insisted the BNP is not a racist group. >>
LISTEN TO BBC AUDIO:
Free speech debate ‘theatre’?
Mark Alexander
