International pop star Michael Jackson has been booked to address members of the Oxford Union on his work for children's charities.

The appearance by the superstar, who was the subject of a police investigation for alleged child abuse, is expected to be during the new term beginning in October, or at the beginning of the new year.

Negotiations between the singer and the Union to confirm a suitable date for the lecture are taking place. Jackson, 42, will address the Union jointly with his Jewish mentor, Rabbi Shmuley Boteach, and give his first public talk on child welfare.

Richard Silcock, the 21-year-old president of the Union, said today: The Oxford Union is thrilled to host the legendary pop icon Michael Jackson at the historic occasion of his first public lecture. He will be speaking on the subject for which he is universally recognised, his profound dedication to the welfare of the world's children. He has been a music legend for the past three decades and has devoted much of his life to helping children. It is our pleasure to have him delivering his first ever public address on child welfare.

Mr Silcock, currently on tour with St Peter's College Choir in Italy, said they were attempting to fix a mutually convenient date and hoped it would be before the end of the autumn term. Rabbi Boteach, who spent 11 years in Oxford and is a close friend of Michael Jackson, is advising him on the contents of the speech and described Mr Jackson's commitment to children as incredibly inspiring.

A Union spokesman denied claims that pop sensation Steps would be appearing there.