James talks politics to Hazel Blears
James Handy, Member of Youth Parliament for Warwickshire, has been to Westminster to speak to MP Hazel Blears, Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government.
Fifteen-year-old James, who is a student at Kineton High School, was one of four members of the UK Youth Parliament selected nationally to speak to Hazel Blears about the role of young people in local politics.
The aim of the meeting was to explore how young people could be better represented in local policy-making and the group discussed a wide range of government proposals. James made a request for the UK Youth Parliament to holding their sittings in the House of Commons and also discussed a proposal which would make it mandatory for councillors to consult with young people before making major decisions.
James said: ”I really enjoyed going to Westminster to speak to Hazel Blears about the role of young people in local politics. She was eager to talk to us and I have volunteered to continue discussions on a regular basis. “
James was accompanied by Shinderpaul Bhangal, Deputy Youth Officer for Warwickshire County Council, who said: “We are very proud of the contribution that our MYPs make, not just locally but nationally, and we are delighted that James was able to represent Warwickshire at the discussions.”