Sixth Form Abi takes the Floor in the House of Commons

Congratulations to former Prep and now Lower Sixth pupil Abi C who was invited to attend the House of Commons last week in her role as Member of Youth Parliament.

Here she tells us about the experience and what it was like speaking in the House.

“On the 28th of February I had the incredible opportunity to attend the UK youth parliament’s sitting in the House of Commons following my election into the role of a member of youth parliament for the constituency of Surrey. It was an empowering experience to sit on the iconic green benches where generations of political decisions have been made and continue to shape our country.

Throughout the day we debated five key topics, two reserved and three devolved. During the morning sitting, the youth parliament debated on lowering the voting age and raising the national minimum wage and in the afternoon session we debated on making public transport free for all young people, that all young people should be taught democracy and political literacy and that everyone affected by periods should have period dignity.

With only 30-50% of MYPs getting the chance to speak on a motion, securing the attention of the Speaker was a challenge. However, I was incredibly fortunate to be selected to contribute to the debate on period dignity – an issue I am deeply passionate about.

After the debates, we voted on one reserved and one devolved issue to prioritise for national action. The UK Youth Parliament ultimately chose lowering the voting age and period dignity – an especially exciting result for me, as period dignity was my policy submission!

Moving forward, we will work collectively to develop national campaigns around these issues, striving to create meaningful and lasting change.”

Abi C – Lower Sixth