Oxford: John Battle to lead new programme at Blackfriars Hall

Retiring MP Rt Hon John Battle is joining Blackfriars Hall, at the University of Oxford as a Fellow to lead a new programme in the area of poverty, environment and the development. Mr Battle, who is a former energy minister and foreign minister writes regularly for the Catholic press and, has contributed to academic books and publications.

In another appointment, Nathan Koblintz is the new 'Global Scholar' of the International Young Leaders Network based at Blackfriars Hall. Koblintz will assist John Battle with the development of his programme as well as contributing to the wider work of the Hall. His year also includes a placement with an MP, travel to Eastern Europe and enrolling on the part-time masters in social enterprise and community development at Cambridge University. Nathan Koblintz has formerly worked in Sri Lanka as a volunteer and holds two other degrees.

The Regent of Blackfriars, Very Rev Dr Richard Finn OP said: "We are delighted that John and Nathan will be making complementary contributions to our new plans in Oxford. These are two of the existing new announcements that we will be making in coming months"