Former Labour cabinet minister Lord Chris Smith gave a talk at Watford Grammar School for Boys as part of the Peers in Schools scheme.

Lord Smith of Finsbury spoke to sixth form pupils yesterday (Friday) about working life in the House of Lords.

The visit allowed students to hear about politics first hand from those who are holding the Government to account on a daily basis.

The Peers in Schools scheme operates across the UK and gets House of Lords members into schools to meet young people.

Lord Smith, who was born in Watford, said: "This is a very good school where pupils can get a good education.

"My brother, Roger Smith, used to attend this school and my mother worked here."

Lord Smith also commented that after the negative press politics has received due to the expenses scandal, it was important that young people can gain an insight into Government.

The Peers in School project, launched in September 2007, has organised more than 350 school visits, with Peers talking directly to more than 17,000 pupils. The visit to Watford was one of 57 taking place that day.

The programme was devised and is managed by Baroness Hayman, the Lord Speaker, as part of the House of Lords outreach programme.

Baroness Hayman said: "Events in Westminster can sometimes seem very remote and it is vital that people understand what goes on and how they are able to interact with parliamentarians to promote and progress causes which are important to them.”

Martin Post, headmaster at Watford Boys', said: "We are delighted to be taking part in this project and it’s a fantastic opportunity for our students to hear what life in the House of Lords is really like."