HANDS UP FOR POLITICS SAYS TEATHER

12.00.00am UTC (GMT +0000) Sat 11th Oct 2003

Sarah Teather MP has this week visited two local Primary schools as part of the 'Hands Up For…' campaign which aims to encourage children to think about politics and society.

The Brent East MP has visited both Salusbury and Malorees Primary schools as part of the campaign which is run entirely by young people. The campaign sees young people entering Primary schools and teaching a series of workshops which are aimed at getting children to think about politics and how it effects their lives.

Sarah Teather MP said:

"I would encourage all schools in Brent to get involved in the 'Hands Up for' campaign by visiting their website. It is vital we encourage children to think about issues and problems that affect them and how they can play a part in solving them.

"The 'Hands Up For' project has been a great success. I have huge admiration for the young people involved in running this remarkable project. After seeing the classes this week and how well the children have responded, I think the campaign could make a real difference in shaping citizens of the future."

At the schools the local Liberal Democrat MP was asked a series of questions by the schoolchildren. High on the discussion list was the war with Iraq, gun crime and environmental issues.

Sarah Teather MP said:

"The questions asked by the children were intelligent and informed; showing a real concern for the environment around them. We all must do more when it comes to listening to what young people have to say."

As part of the project the local MP was presented with a number of paper 'hands' on which the children had been encouraged to ask for what they wanted to see improved in society.

Any school or children wishing to take part in the 'Hands Up For' campaign should visit their website www.messengers.org.uk. 'Hands Up For' is run by local young people aged between 16-18 and is aimed at encouraging discussion amongst children.