I was delighted to welcome a group of youngsters from Deansfield High School to Parliament today.

 The young people had an educational session given by the Parliamentary Education Unit and they then had a guided tour around Parliament including the House of Lords and the gallery of the House of Commons from where you can watch the debates going on below in the Chamber of the House itself.

This picture was taken just outside the famous Westminster Hall which was built just a few decades after the Norman conquest in the 11^th Century. As well as seeing how Parliament itself works the Palace here is a living history lesson.

They told me that they had had a great time (despite having to get up at 5am this morning) and promised to vote when they were old enough. Not necessarily for me (although that would be great if they so chose) but it’s the taking part in the democratic process that counts.

You can ask your school to come on a visit to see Parliament. If you know a school or a teacher who is looking to organise a trip call my office in the House of Commons to help arrange it: 020 7219 4036