STUDENTS have been encouraged to become more involved in making decisions for the country, as Bracknell MP Philip Lee visits a school in Bracknell.

Students at the Edgebarrow School took part in a question and answer session, which lasted 45 minutes. They raised a wide range of topics including, overseas aide, same sex marriage, the challenges of migration and Brexit.

Philip Lee was invited to the school in Crowthorne by 6th form student Struan Hancock.

Philip said: “I am grateful to Struan, and the Head of 6th form, Tony Evans, for extending this invitation to me.

“I regret to say that I feel many Parliamentarians are making decisions for the country with a woeful disregard for the views of young people, such as those I spoke with today.

“It is essential that they get their voices heard. Although it may not be what most young people want to do in their spare time, the best way to make that happen is to join a political party. In a democracy like ours turning up makes a lot of difference.”

Headteacher Toney Evans is thankful for the visit and the issues it highlighted.

He said: “We were very grateful to Dr Lee for giving our students the opportunity to ask him questions and reflect upon his views of the current situation in many areas of their lives.

“It was a positive, respectful session that highlighted key issues, some of which will affect our students’ lives a great deal moving forward.

“We are also grateful to Struan for setting up this session. We aim to broaden their perspectives on a whole range of issues, so this was important for us.”

At the end of the meeting Philip Lee set the students a challenge to become more involved in shaping the future of the country.

For more information about the Edgebarrow School, visit: https://www.edgbarrowschool.co.uk/.