I really enjoyed my visit to Deanshanger Primary School today, where I was welcomed by the Headteacher and a hall full of enthusiastic year 3, 4 and 5 pupils.

I had a most enjoyable question and answer session with pupils who asked many varied and exciting questions. Some of these included “why did I want to become an MP?” “what’s it like in the Chamber?” “what do I do for Deanshanger?” “which football club do I support?” “what’s my favourite colour?” “what are the longest and shortest debates I have been involved in?” “who has been my favourite PM?” “who was the least funny Prime Minister?” “can you take your pet into Parliament?” “how many hours do I work?” “my most favourite part of my job?” and “have I ever met the Queen and the new King?” Pupils’ hands were constantly in the air to ask a question and I was impressed by their politeness, good manners and enthusiasm.

The school had prepared a wonderful book to commemorate the life of Her late Majesty The Queen which all pupils had contributed to and I was invited to write my own personal message of condolence.