Toby Tompkins: 20 years old, student at the University of Chichester
Despite having an interest in politics since a young age, I had never had the opportunity to visit the Houses of Parliament. I was fortunate enough to be offered to take a placement module in the second year of my degree, which gave me the opportunity to work in Gillian Keegan’s Office. Having expected to have only been working in the constituent office in Chichester, I was excited to learn that I would be working with her staff in Westminster.
My work during the week was both varied and rewarding. I spent the majority of my time reading and responding to emails from constituents and other departments, alongside conducting research and completing administrative tasks, such as organizing Gillian’s calendar and sorting the extensive correspondence she receives in the post. Throughout the week, I was able to meet with Gillian and analyse the work I had been doing, whilst also having the opportunity to discuss her work as an MP first hand!
During the week, I was fortunate enough to be given the opportunity to have a tour of the House of Lord’s chamber. It was fascinating to learn about the history of the British government, dating back to the beginning of the political debate, something which I knew little about. Furthermore, during the tour, I was able to witness the procession of the Speaker of the House of Commons, a tradition which I didn’t know existed!
The highlight of my time in Westminster was being able to sit in the gallery at the House of Commons and watch a debate, in which Gillian was taking part. It was interesting to see the process in which debates in the house take place, whilst witnessing MP’s debating topics that I had been following.
At the end of the week, I was given the opportunity to work in the constituency office in Chichester. It was interesting to see the two different sides of working as an MP, from dealing with national and international isues to specific constituent concerns in Chichester.
I am very grateful to Gillian and her team for the opportunity, and I hope I will be able to visit Westminster again in the near future.
