Two leading writers, Ben Okri and Joanne Harris, who have contributed much to the world of literature discuss why we should cherish the gift of free speech.

The two will discuss the importance of literature and the written word as an expression of ideas and freedom of speech.  It is a liberty not enjoyed by everyone in the world and one, they argue, we should not take for granted.

Okri is considered one of the foremost African writers of the post-modern period. At 21, he published his first novel, Flowers and Shadows, and in 1991, The Famished Road, which won the Booker Prize. His most recent novel is The Age of Magic and his most recent volume of poetry, Wild.

Harris has written bestselling novels across a range of genres including Chocolat, which was made into an Oscar-winning movie starring Juliette Binoche and Johnny Depp. Other work includes the fantasy novels based on Norse myth, Runemarks, Runelight and The Gospel of Loki, and a series dark psychological thrillers, including the latest, Different Class.

The panel is chaired by writer and journalist Paul Blezard.