Teenage politicians meet the Home Secretary
| Published: 8th October 2007 10:28 |
Tackling gun and knife crime, the relationship between young people and the police and concerns that all young people are regarded as disorderly were among the topics of discussion today as Natalie Hall from Staffordshire and other members of the UK Youth Parliament met the Home Secretary Jacqui Smith.
The meeting was set up at the request of the Home Secretary to engage directly with the young politicians on a range of crime and disorder issues which affect them. The eight young people, from across the country, all have personal experiences of gun or knife crime which they discussed with the Home Secretary.
Jacqui Smith said:
"The vast majority of kids are law abiding and responsible. What's more, I want them to help us reduce crime and the fear of crime.
"Today was an opportunity for me to hear directly from young people, particularly those who have had personal experience of gun and knife crime, to listen to their thoughts, perceptions and ideas.
"I was delighted to have met such as an inspiring group of young people today who are striving to make a difference. I'm sure many of them are ones to watch for the future."
Chief Executive of the UK Youth Parliament, Andy Hamflett said:
"It is great that the Home Secretary met with the UK Youth Parliament to discuss gun and knife crime.
"The Members of the UK Youth Parliament have been campaigning on the issue of gun and knife crime for some time. They have an inside track into the hearts of many communities in the UK and because of this they have a greater understanding of why young people may turn to gun and knife crime and are in a position to put forward potential solutions."
Natalie Hall Member of UK Youth Parliament for Staffordshire said:
"This has been a chance for the Home Secretary to meet some young people who have been affected by gun and knife crime and to hear about our experiences and the ideas we have to tackle this violent behaviour. It is good to hear that gun and knife crime is a key priority for the Government - they must not let this continue to destroy young people's lives.
"I'm glad that the Home Secretary met us to talk about these issues."
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