Merton Youngsters Get Democratic

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Chance for children to meet elected politicians

Merton's youngsters will this week get the chance to get together with the borough's elected politicians as Local Democracy Week gets under way.

Events include a school visit to the Houses of Parliament, to Merton's Civic Centre to meet the Mayor Oonagh Moulton (right) and special opportunities for young people to ask questions directly to their local councillors.

Wimbledon MP Stephen Hammond (left) is visiting the new Rutlish and Ricards Lodge Sixth Forms for a debate with students on Friday October 15.

A 'speed dating' event between members of Merton Youth Parliament and the council's cabinet and shadow cabinet is also back by popular demand, and will take place on Tuesday October 12 in the Civic Centre.

Councillor Edith Macauley, Merton Council cabinet member for community safety, engagement and equalities said: "Getting young people interested and involved in local democracy is really important. Aside from helping them to have an understanding of how things work now, they are also the ones who will be looking after things in years to come.

"We hope by engaging with as many young people as possible and giving them a taster of what democracy is all about that we can help inspire them to get involved, have their say and make a difference as they get older."

Find out more at www.merton.gov.uk/localdemocracyweek.

October 11, 2010