As Leader of the Commons, I had the pleasure of once again welcoming the UK Youth Parliament into the Commons Chamber for their tenth annual sitting, and it really was wonderful to see so many engaged young representatives keen to have their voices and views heard.

This year’s debate topics included votes at 16, tackling homelessness, equal pay for equal work, mental health, and ending knife crime. The day ended with a general debate on the anniversary of the Representation of the People Act 1918, and I must say that there is a much greater gender balance amongst the MYPs than there is with MPs.

It was incredibly impressive to hear that over 1 million people were involved in selecting this year’s debates, and it was good to have the opportunity to speak with some of their MYPs directly about why they got involved in the Youth Parliament, and why they feel democracy is so important.

The day’s proceedings were broadcast on Facebook, Twitter and YouTube and also on parliamentlive.tv, and you can read a full transcript of the debates online. There is also more information about the day on the Youth Parliament’s website.

If you are interested in finding more about the UK Youth Parliament, or would like to stand as a Member of the Youth Parliament, do visit their website.