Reed Invites Local Youngsters to Put Themselves in PM’s Shoes

Local MP Andy Reed is encouraging students at secondary schools throughout his Loughborough constituency to enter a high profile national competition.

The Press Gallery Writing Competition seeks to promote awareness and discussion of parliamentary democracy and the political process, amongst young people. Now in its 3rd year, the ever-growing event is attracting hundreds of entries from students and schools throughout the country.

It does this by posing questions that require both debate and deliberation of key issues that affect their daily lives, and complements citizenship lessons in schools.

For year 10 & 11 students they are invited to write up to 1250 words outlining if they were Prime Minister, what there three priorities would be and what they would do to address them.

For year 12 & 13 students they are asked to explain in less than 2000 words the differences between parliament & government.

Reed who has written to all secondary Head teachers throughout his constituency this week urging youngsters to participate said “it’s a brilliant opportunity for young people”.

The nation wide competition begins in September, when schools return after the summer break, and provides the regional prize winner with the opportunity to spend a day shadowing leading journalists and politicians in 2006.

Reed added “politics is often a turn off for young people; however I’m sure that the challenge of putting themselves in the shoes of the Prime Minister will be very stimulating!”

For further information- visit www.parliamentarypressgallery.org.uk. Or contact Jamie Colquhoun, Head of Marketing at Dod's Parliamentary Communications (the competition’s sponsors) by email jamie.colquhoun@parlicom.com  020 7091 7511