Mark Hall School students at Westminster

It was a pleasure to welcome eleven Year 11 students from Mark Hall School, Harlow, to the House of Commons on Monday.

The pupils were given a tour of the House and saw all the interesting architecture and famous seats where former and current Governments have sat.  They saw the original Chancellor of the Exchequer’s red briefcase and also visited the House of Lords.

The party walked through Westminster Hall before I met them for a question and answer session which covered topics ranging from the behaviour of MPs to university fees and the NHS reforms.

The school group then walked to Downing Street for a pre-arranged photocall outside Number 10.

I was delighted to welcome the students and to have the opportunity to speak with them about a range of current issues.

Harlow Youth Day

 

It was a Youth day on Friday as I visited Latton Green Primary School Youth Council, Harlow Young Concern Trust, Mark Hall GSCE students, and Epping Forest Youth Council.

Latton Bush youngsters had just been on a tour to Parliament which I had organised, and were really excited about their visit.  At Mark Hall, students debated capital punishment - most were in favour, bar one or two.  In Epping Forest, Youth Councillors wanted to know what it was to be an MP, what it meant, and how one became one.  I hope I didn't put them off. At the Young Concern trust, I was able to tour the new building in Maddox Road, (which will open in just a few weeks) and discuss funding issues - over a nice cup of coffee in the Harlow College Canteen.

All in all, my Friday was a good way to find out what are young people are thinking.  

Enjoy the video below from Latton School.

by Robert Halfon - www.roberthalfon.blogspot.com