Steve Brine joined the children of Owls, Woodpeckers and Kestrels classes at South Wonston Primary School as they were given a 'parliamentary experience' to launch Upper KS2's new topic for the term.
The Winchester MP was delighted to visit the children and explain the role of an MP and to give the children a first-hand description of Parliament – particularly life in the House of Commons.
Sitting in the Church, in a set-up a little like 'Question Time', Steve was happy to answer a range of very interesting questions about his job and current affairs. He was impressed with the research that the children had carried out over the half term holiday as part of their Yes Minister project in order to ask such varied questions as, "What is your opinion of the political situation in Ukraine?", "What can he offer the families who live at Worthy Down?" and "Did he have ambition to be the next Prime Minister?".
He was also given a quick fire quiz by James Baker and Scarlet Syder which included questions such as, "What is the price of a pint of milk?", "When was the Gun Powder Plot?", "Why is Big Ben called Big Ben?" and for fun "What is Mr Cameron's favourite flavour of crisps?". In terms of crisp flavour he did not know but joked with the children that if they knew to please tell him as it might help him get promoted!
Steve also gave the children lots of tips in terms of writing an inspiring speech and effective manifesto for their up and coming class elections. This will be an engaging experience for the children as each class will choose one candidate to run in an Upper KS2 General Election. The winning candidate will be South Wonston MP for the duration of this term.
Speaking afterwards, Steve said: "I was so impressed by the children's enthusiasm, and I loved the honesty and imaginations that went into their questions. I could tell they are very keyed up for their upcoming elections, and I look forward to taking the winning candidate, alongside a parent or teacher, to have tea with me in the House of Commons, as well as arranging a tour around Parliament."
