Member News
2nd November 2009On Friday 30th October, over 300 young people from around the country took over the House of Commons chamber.
It was the first time anyone other than MPs have debated in the Commons and sat on the green benches.
The historic move saw elected 11-18 year-old Members of Youth Parliament debate issues of concern to young people across the UK.
The five issues debated were:
- Lowering the voting age to 16
- Youth crime and how to tackle it
- Public transport for young people
- Jobs for young people and the economy
- University fees
Charity Mhende, member of Youth Parliament Solihull, 16 years-old, said:
"It is an outstanding example of how democracy among young people is alive and kicking. Tackling debate topics such as tuition fees, transport, crime, the economy AND lowering the voting age really shows that anyone who thinks young people aren't interested in politics is extremely misinformed."
The Speaker of the House of Commons, Rt Hon. John Bercow MP said:
"I am delighted to welcome the Youth Parliament delegates to the House. This is an historic moment and one which I hope will show young people that the House of Commons, and the work that goes on here, is relevant to their lives."
Watch the debate
The first three debates were broadcast on BBC Parliament. Click here to watch the debate on iPlayer.
We hope to make the full debate available on the UK Youth Parliament website in the next week.
Dods Parliamentary Communications Ltd