Members of the UK Youth Parliament will debate in the House of Commons (From East London and West Essex Guardian Series)

Members of the UK Youth Parliament will debate in the House of Commons

11:01am Thursday 29th October 2009 in

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YOUNG people from across Essex will make history as they debate in the House of Commons this Friday (October 30).

Six representatives from the county will sit on the famous green benches as part of the 300-strong UK Youth Parliament. It will be the first time anyone other than Members of Parliament have debated in the chamber in 300 years.

The elected 12- to- 18-year-olds will explore several key issues affecting people of their age across the UK, including the cost of university education, youth crime and how it can be tackled, and why over-60s get free transport but young people do not.

This will also discuss the current state of job opportunities for youngsters and the possibility of lowering the voting age to 16.

Councillor Stephen Castle, Essex County Council Cabinet member for Education, said: “The House of Commons is a fantastic arena for young people to debate the issues that really matter to them.

”We should do all we can to encourage participation in the politics and by giving the UK Youth Parliament such a prestigious stage we are sending the message that the voice of young people really counts.”