THE WORLD of politics was spelt out by teenagers in Worcester on Friday (October 18) when they took part in a Question Time style debate at The Guildhall.
To mark national Local Democracy Week (October 14 to 18) a group of 16 to 18-year-olds, from high schools and colleges, became audience members for panelists Coun Joy Squires, Coun Simon Geraghty, Coun Liz Smith and Coun Neil Laurenson.
It was the first year Worcester City Council had planned the event and it gave students the chance to quiz members from the Labour, Conservative, Liberal Democrat and Green Parties on government and the main challenges it faces.
Questions fielded included issues on local funding, paths and infrastructure, public transport, the environment and education.
Claire Chaplin, democratic services manager, at Worcester City Council said: “It was good to see so many students getting involved in local democracy week.
“There were some interesting questions and hopefully the morning gave them a real insight into local politics.
“Our members welcomed having the opportunity to share their views with the audience and I think the students really enjoyed it too.
“It was a great opportunity for Worcester’s politicians to engage with young people and to discuss in detail issues that affect them.”
Claire Neville, communications officer for Worcester City Council, added: “It was done on our part to get people under the age of 18 involved in politics and the goings on on their doorstep.
“The general feedback was that it was great and we should look at doing more of it.”
