Last week, I had the pleasure of welcoming a new cohort of bright, passionate, local young people to the second ever Future Parliament Programme, and what an incredible two days it was!
From the moment the students arrived, their energy, curiosity, and commitment to learning about our democracy was palpable. As someone who believes deeply in the power of education to transform lives, I couldn’t be prouder of the group.
This year’s programme couldn’t have been more timely. On the very first day, news broke that the government plans to extend the vote to 16 and 17-year-olds by the next General Election. It was a moment that brought our discussions to life in real time. The students were already exploring topics for their final speeches, and many chose to tackle the issue of youth enfranchisement head on. Their arguments were thoughtful, passionate, and deeply informed. It was a reminder that young people aren’t just ready to vote—they’re ready to lead.
Over the course of the two days, participants learned about life in Westminster, explored the many behind-the-scenes roles that keep Parliament running, learned how laws are made and the process of a Bill going through Parliament, and took part in workshops on public speaking and speech writing. With support from Hull College and University of Hull, they created and delivered powerful speeches that would rival many I’ve heard in the Commons.
Watching them stand at the podium, speaking with confidence and conviction, was genuinely moving. These young people, many of whom had never considered a future in politics, left the programme with new skills, new connections, and, I hope, a new sense of what’s possible.
This programme is about more than politics. It’s about levelling the playing field. Not every child in Hull West and Haltemprice has the same opportunities or networks. The Future Parliament Programme exists to change that, to show every young person that their voice matters, there are opportunities for them and that they have a place in shaping the future of our country.
I want to thank Hull College and the University of Hull for their continued partnership and belief in this vision. And to the students, thank you for showing up, speaking out, and reminding us all why democracy needs your voice.
The future of Hull, and of our democracy, is brighter because of you!