Now that the dust has settled, it is a good opportunity for all sides in the Oxford Union row to assess their roles.

Union officials were widely criticised - but also praised in some quarters - for offering a platform to BNP leader Nick Griffin and Holocaust denier David Irving.

About 1,000 protesters made their feelings known, some breaking into the chamber and delaying the start of the debate on free speech.

The main dispute appears to be between Union officials and the police.

Union president Luke Tryl is annoyed that police did not do more to prevent protesters invading the building.

But police argue that their only duty was to keep order outside, and that anything that happened inside was the Union's responsibility.

Although talks between the police and Union were held beforehand, it appears there were some grey areas, which need to be ironed out. There are clearly lessons to be learned.

This isn't the first time that Oxford has hosted controversial speakers - and we are sure it won't be the last.