West Worcestershire MP Harriett Baldwin last week helped Pershore schoolchildren to learn to have their say after running a mock debate in class time. Harriett visited Holy Redeemer RC Primary School in Pershore (Friday April 15) and gave pupils first-hand experience of what it is like to debate contentious issues, as well as taking part a vote. The MP also took part in a question and answer session where she was quizzed about her job, her background and even her views on the EU referendum. Harriett commented: “I always enjoy visiting local primary schools and helping to give them a little first-hand experience of democracy. “The school chose to debate whether school uniform should be compulsory and it was clearly an issue that they all feel very strongly about. “I hope that the school will be able to take the opportunity to make a visit to Parliament where they can see where I work, representing them each week. “It was useful to hear their views and I hope to hear more about local speeding issues, which was raised during the questioning session. “Although only people aged over 18 can vote, I represent everyone in West Worcestershire so it is always useful to listen to people of all ages to hear their views.” Headteacher Christina Hall added: ““It was lovely to have an MP visit the school to talk to the children. “As a school we have done a lot of work on British values, including democracy, and it was fantastic for the children to have this real life experience. Everyone particularly enjoyed the mock vote which Harriett organised for us. “We have several groups of elected pupils who represent their classes on our School Council, so the children already had a basic understanding of democracy, but Harriett’s visit has already generated a lot more interest in, and understanding of, politics at a national level.” Photo: Harriett Baldwin MP pictured with headteacher Christina Hall and the school council.