One of the Commons people
He may be just 17 years old, but Jonny Gilchrist has already led a debate at the Houses of Parliament.
The Cardinal Newman College student was one of 300 under-18s who took part in the first-ever meeting of the Youth Parliament at the House of Commons.
Jonny, from Newbury Close, Fulwood, led a passionate debate on tuition fees during the session, which was the first time the Commons chamber had opened its doors to non-MPs.
He was one of six members of the Lancashire youth parliament who travelled to London to take part.
Jonny said: "I was asked to go as I'm the member for Preston.
"I put forward a motion that university fees should be abolished. It was a great chance for young people to have their say."
The former Our Lady's Catholic High pupil is currently studying for A-levels in chemistry, biology. physics and critical thinking, which he said comes in "very handy" for debates.
He said: "I was on the school council and progressed to Preston Youth Council.
"I took a keen interest in politics and was speaking to a few of the older members about their experiences with the UK Youth Parliament.
"I was elected in 2007 and my interest grew and grew."
Jonny is now campaigns rep for the north west and described it as "an honour" to represent the youngsters of Preston.
He said he has also received lots of support from teachers and fellow students at college.
And he's not ruled out a career in politics in the future: "Being in the Commons chamber was quite overwhelming.
"I'm probably looking into doing law at university and while I'm doing my degree helping run some kind of youth council to give back what they've given me."
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Thursday 24 May 2012
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