MYPs debate in House of Commons

Shrosphire’s MYPs were in London on Friday 23 November 2012 to debate in the House of Commons.

Luke Harper, from Minsterley and George Battson from Shrewsbury who both attend Shrewsbury sixth form college, debated key issues important to Shropshire’s young people, live on BBC Parliament.

The key topics were identified in the recent ‘Make Your Mark’ ballot held this autumn. Almost 6000 of Shropshire’s young people between the ages of 11 to 18 voted in the UK Youth Parliament national ballot to see what UK Members of Youth Parliament should campaign on for the year ahead. A total of 250,000 young people had voted in the national ballot.

Shropshire’s top scoring issues were; make public transport cheaper, better and accessible for all, marriage for all (irrespective of sexuality) and an equal national minimum wage for all. Shropshire’s votes were included in the national vote.

The top 5 issues debated in the House of Commons included ‘Public Transport’, ‘Getting ready for work’, ‘Marriage for all’, ‘An equal national minimum age’ and ‘A curriculum to prepare for life.’

Luke Harper said:

“The Make Your Mark’ ballot was very important for us to see what the most important issues for young people in Shropshire are. I was very pleased at the amount of ballot papers I managed to collect. I received a medal for collecting almost 2000 votes.”

George Battson said:

 “The House of Commons will be a really exciting opportunity for young people to discuss issues which are important to them. Government ministers will observe and will be able to understand how young people feel. I am proud to be part of this important event.”