PUPILS are being encouraged to get involved with the running of Monmouthshire Youth Parliament following its latest event.

Established by Beth Handley, a sixth former at Haberdashers’ Monmouth School for Girls (HMSG), and Jack Tottem from Monmouth School, the group aims to give under 18s the chance to voice their opinion on political issues.

Its last public meeting, held at HMSG on Friday, January 27, was a Question Time event featuring a diverse panel of influential people who help make life-changing decisions for the community.

Monmouth AM Nick Ramsay, South East AM Steffan Lewis, HMSG Old Girl Natalie Sandercock, barrister and deputy district judge, and Andrew Tuggey, Chief Executive of Commonwealth Parliament and High Sheriff of Gwent, all answered questions from the audience.

Dr Nicola Bradbear, director at Bees for Development, and Rebecca Harrington, former HMSG girl and immigration judge, joined the list of speakers at the last minute.

Various topics were discussed on the night, with Miss Handley describing the panellists as "informed and balanced".

“It was invaluable to have such a constructive political discussion, illustrating how important it is for young people to seize opportunities like this," said Miss Handley.

“We received a diverse array of questions, concerning everything from whether an MP should vote on Article 50 with their conscience or following their party, whether Britain should build a relationship with Trump's America, how we can reach a gender balance in politics and the importance of opposition, to the importance of active protest in politics.

“We are now looking for younger students to get involved in the running of Monmouthshire Youth Parliament.”

If you are under 18 and would like to find out more about joining MYP, email Beth at monmouthshireyouthparliament@gmail.com