Young people to debate sex education, university fees and war in commons chamber

Over 300 young people from across the country are set to debate in the House of Commons chamber on Friday 29th October. Members of Youth Parliament, aged 11-18, will debate issues including the cost of university, sex education in schools and war. 

Following the success of the UK Youth Parliament debate in the chamber last year, MPs voted by a majority of 499 to 21, to allow the event to happen annually for the life of this Parliament.

The five issues being debated this year are:

Job opportunities – Is enough being done to create jobs for young people? Should there be more work experience opportunities for young people in school and college?

Sex Education – Is it good enough? What age should it be taught? Does sex education lead to the sexualisation of young people? Do young people learn about sex from TV?

Transport – Is public transport too expensive for young people? At what age should you be charged an adult fare?

University – Are fees too high? Is it even worth going to university? Are there enough places for those who want to go?

War – Should UK troops be brought home from Afghanistan? Was the conflict in Iraq a costly mistake? Is war ever justified?

Abiodun Olatokun, 17 years-old, Member of Youth Parliament for Birmingham, said: “Members of Youth Parliament are 'tearing up the script' of conventional politics by debating the issues that really matter to millions of young people across the country. The event will put issues concerning young people, which are often marginalised and ignored by decision makers, into the public sphere for serious consideration."

Live Blog

The only way to find out what is happening live in the House of Commons Chamber is by following the UK Youth Parliament live blog. Enter your email address in advance and you will be sent a reminder just before the debate begins - http://www.ukyouthparliament.org.uk/liveblog