In my week in Westminster I was lucky enough to discover the Country’s representative democracy in practice, by witnessing the work of MPs and their staff. Having arrived at Portcullis House on my first day, I was struck by the scale of parliament and the work done there to represent all areas of the country. Gillian and her office team were very welcoming and informative, while helping me make the most of my time at Westminster. I particularly enjoyed watching a packed House of Commons deliberating our countries issues, as well as, the rich political history of Westminster Palace.
While party politics is obviously very defined here, I was impressed by the efforts for cross-party consensus and cooperation for the benefit of the country. For example, on my second day, I watched Gillian as well as MP's from more than one party take part in a Charity wheelchair basketball event to raise awareness of Polio, which shows the diverse aspects of her job. As well as this, viewing a meeting of the Public Accounts Select Committee showed me how cross-party consensus can achieve positive change for the country.
Overall, my week was informative, engaging and ultimately very fun; I would recommend that more young people get active in politics as I have in my work experience placement. I left Westminster with an appreciation of the work done in democracy, and a respect for those that do it.
By Theo Kent - 18 years old, student at Havant College.