Central Bedfordshire’s Youth Parliament heads to the House of Commons
Tuesday, 28 November 2023
Members of Central Bedfordshire Council’s Youth Parliament headed to the House of Commons last week to take part in a debate about free school meals.
On Friday 17 November, the UK Youth Parliament took part in a debate about free school meals as part of their campaign, ‘Food for Learning’. More than 200 Members of the Youth Parliament from across the UK participated in the debate, which outlines their proposed solutions to extending free school meals.
The proceedings were chaired by the Speaker of the House Sir Lindsay Hoyle, with opening remarks from Penny Mordaunt MP, Lilian Greenwood MP, and Stuart Andrew MP.
Representing Central Bedfordshire this year were Sam, who’s 14, and Carla, who’s 13, accompanied by Youth Workers.
Sam said:
It was really nice to experience a big part of the country’s history first hand, a once in a lifetime experience. I spoke in the House of Commons from the green benches and will forever be part of history debating a very important issue.
Carla said:
It was a great experience and I enjoyed every minute of it. Just being able to sit in those chairs was amazing. Everyone was great and I really enjoyed meeting Mr Speaker and Madam Deputy Speaker.
Councillor Hayley Whitaker, our Executive Member for Families, Education and Children, said:
It’s really inspiring that these young people from across the country took part in this debate, and I’m sure they all did a fantastic job of representing their respective areas. The Youth Parliament is a great opportunity for young people to learn about how government works, gives them a say in important issues and helps them develop skills like leadership and confidence. Congratulations to everyone who took part.