Warwick and Leamington MP, James Plaskitt, is encouraging all his constituents aged 11-18 to take part in next week’s election to the Youth Parliament. Voting opens on February 1^st and lasts for a week. Voting cards can be collected from schools, colleges and youth clubs and voting can be done online or by text message.

MYPs can discuss issues of concern to young people, and make their views known to local councillors as well as Mr Plaskitt.

Mr Plaskitt has met with previous MYPs from Warwickshire, and taken up their concerns either with local authorities or in Parliament. Mr Plaskitt also welcomes MYPs visiting Westminster.

Mr Plaskitt said, “Previous members of the Youth Parliament in Warwickshire have proven to be very effective spokespeople and I have been pleased to work with them on a variety of issues.”

Mr Plaskitt added, “The more young people who take part in the poll, the stronger the mandate they give to those who are elected. A strong mandate gives a strong voice – and that’s exactly what young people should have.”