Home > Annual Sitting 2008

The 8th UK Youth Parliament Annual Sitting took place at Exeter University in the South West of England in July. Over 300 MYPs from across the country gathered to plan campaigns, discuss the issues that affect young people in their area and have a great four days together.

MYPs got straight down to it, participating in topical debates. They discussed controversial subjects such as terrorism, the death penalty, equality and access to public transport.

Throughout the weekend MYPs split into groups; there were seven groups developing different aspects of the UK Youth Parliament manifesto, three groups covering each of the UK-wide campaigns and two groups involved in video and media.

MYPs also had the chance to hear from Members of Parliament. The Sitting was opened with a keynote speech from Ben Bradshaw MP, Minister for the South West. MYPs asked challenging questions on subjects ranging from health to the economy. It was an informative session and Ben was impressed by the quality and depth of knowledge of the MYPs.

There were video messages from two other Ministers: Rosie Winterton MP from the Department for Transport and Bridget Prentice MP from the Ministry of Justice. They both praised the MYPs for their successes over the past year, encouraging them to continuen their work. Bridget Prentice added that she hoped to see MYPs debating in the House of Commons in the next year.

The MYPs also know how to have fun. There was a very popular activities session where MYPs tried out belly dancing and tai chi, whilst others played traditional games like football and rounders. There was also entertainment in the evenings: bingo, quizzes,films and a disco. Other highlights included the Colombian Night, where MYPs helped to raise money for Fruto del Espiritu, a charity which supports disadvantaged families in Colombia, a ground shaking performance from the amazing dance troupe Flava and a legendary dance off between the
regions and nations that closed the Sitting.

It was an enjoyable and exhausting four days where MYPs certainly made their mark.

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Videos

Here are three video updates from the Annual Sitting:

Daily Update 1	Daily Update 2	Daily Update 3

-------------------------------------------------------------------

Live Blog

During the Annual Sitting, ex-MYP Felix Renicks kept the outside world informed of proceedings with his fantastic live blog. You can still access the blog by going to www.ukyouthparliament.org.uk/live

--------------------------------------------------------------------

Photos