25/05/04 - Rebecca, 16 interviews Tim Collins MP

16 year old Rebecca Reynolds from Kendal interviewed her MP, Tim Collins recently. She is interested in the Government`s policies for young people in care. The interview about Tim's role as an MP, came after Rebecca made a trip to Westminster to research care services for children and young people.   

Rebecca says,   

"My interview with Tim Collins was interesting. I asked him about his role as an MP and how the debating process works in the House of Commons. Tim told me that his initial interest in politics came from an amazing history and politics teacher. He explained what it was like to be a new MP and how he keeps up to date with the views of his constituents by getting out to meet people and saving the e-mails he receives.    

I also took the chance to ask Tim about his views on the proposed skatepark in Kendal. I was impressed by his knowledge about what is going on, and his commitment to support the skate park. I have learnt a lot about politics." 

County Councillor John Mallinson, Cabinet spokesman for Care and Social Services says,   

"The interview was the final stage of research carried out with Lindy Ketchen, Cumbria’s County Council's Children’s Rights Officer. The work supports the County Council’s commitment to children who live with foster carers and in residential units. It will enable young people in care, to join managers and Councillors in making decisions about the services they receive."   

Rebecca gained a national perspective on decision-making and priorites for children in care when she visited the House of Commons earlier in the year. The highlight of the trip was attending the ‘All Parties Parliamentary Group for Looked After Children’, chaired by Hilton Dawson. This meeting is one open to young people from all over England and Wales. Tim Collins also arranged the observation of an education debate in the main chamber.   

Commenting on her trip to London, Rebecca says, 

"It was a great opportunity to see how the House of Commons works. I got to meet some important people who work to improve things for children in care nationally. I enjoyed my trip to London and saw `Phantom of the Opera' on my visit. I was fascinated to see Downing Street, Leicester Square, China Town, Covent Garden and lots of other famous landmarks."