Young people to 'shine' in debate (From Watford Observer)

Young people to 'shine' in debate

3:05am Friday 10th July 2009 in

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Hundreds of young people are set to take part in a "groundbreaking" debate in the House of Lords as part of a national drive to highlight the achievements of youngsters.

The youngsters, including an asylum seeker, a former homeless teenager and others from "challenging" backgrounds, will debate issues of importance to them.

The event is part of Shine Week, created by the Government to mark the positive achievements of young people.

Lord Speaker Baroness Hayman said: "These young people have strong views on improving opportunities and on redefining what society means by talent.

"In the House of Lords we are looking forward to listening to and learning from them. We hope too to encourage more of them to pursue their passions and become the leaders of tomorrow.

"A key skill of parliamentarians is having the confidence to speak out about things you believe in - hopefully, this event will help to foster these skills."