The event was organised by historic debating society the Scarborough Forty Club.

The organisation was established more than 100 years ago and chose for its latest theme, This House believes that it is the media which really run this country.

Ed Asquith, editor of the Evening News, spoke in favour of the motion, and councillor and freelance journalist, David Jeffels, opposed.
They were seconded by students Antonia Quick and Emma Johnston from the Scarborough Sixth Form College.

The proposers argued that Parliament had thrown away its authority and prestige and had been replaced by a well-informed and powerful media.
Against the motion it was argued that the media was factional and ineffectual.

But the motion was carried in favour by a majority of two to one.
The debating club originally met at the Balmoral Hotel in Westborough. Last night's event took place at The University of Hull, Scarborough Campus.