The Wyndham Place Charlemagne Trust was formed in 2000 by the merger of the Wyndham Place Trust (founded in 1959 to promote a concern for peace, world order and the rule of law) and the Charlemagne Institute which sought to promote the study of European values and beliefs.
The Trust, which is independent of religious or cultural affiliations, exists to promote dialogue between people with a wide range of political and religious opinions and from different cultural and professional backgrounds. It aims to address European and world issues, not just from a political or economic perspective, but also from the point of view of values and beliefs and to inform public opinion and to influence those who shape policy in the UK, Europe and the wider world.
WPCT arranges 2 major lectures each year. The Charlemagne lecture (held in spring / summer) focuses on European issues, while the Corbishley lecture in the autumn tackles aspects of the ethics of international policy. Additional topical events are also arranged periodically.
WPCT is a charity, overseen by a Council of Trustees, and is wholly funded by donations from its supporters.
It is with great sadness that we learned of the death aged 82 of Rt Hon Lord Boswell of Aynho on 30 August 2025. Tim was a former MP and Minister and a committed European as well as a dear friend and affable and delightful man who brought common sense and rationality as well as courtesy to every discussion. In the House of Lords he was made Principal Deputy Chairman of Committees in the House. He also became Chairman of the European Union Committee. His wise counsel, good humour, friendship and sensible views will be sorely missed. We offer our sincerest condolences to his family.