Pupils ASK Havering the Questions

20th October 2011

Abigail Jowett and Paris Bowers represented Drapers' Academy at the ASK Havering event held to mark European Local Democracy Week at Havering College. More than 150 young people were invited to attend to question the panel on issues which mattered to them with topics raised including the London riots, public versus private education, unemployment and university fees. Both Paris and Abigail participated in the debate with Paris asking a pre-written question whilst Abigail made a great observation about a response from the local councillor, which created another debate. Both pupils represented the school superbly.

The panel (shown in above photo) was chaired by Emmy award-winning BBC broadcasting Michael Cockerell, and included Havering Council Leader, Cllr. Michael White, X-Factor star and former teacher Danyl Johnson, Liberal Democrat London Assembly candidate Bridget Fox and left-wing writer and activist Owen Jones.

Cllr. Michael White said: "It's important that young people understand how local democracy works, how it affects their lives and why they should get involved. These young people showed just how switched on they are when it comes to the political issues which affect them and their peers."