Local school chooses Liberal Democrats

MP candidate Lisa Smart and Councillor Jake Austin were delighted to meet students at Hazel Grove High School, as part of their mock elections; part of the school’s “Beliefs and values” classes.

Lisa and Jake talked to students about a whole range of topics, local and national, as the students rose to the occasion, putting forward a series of questions on issues in the headlines, not least the current crisis in Gaza. 

Lisa said: “It’s always great to hear directly from people about the issues that are most important to them. The students certainly weren’t afraid to ask difficult questions about difficult issues. 

“It’s important for them to know that their views are important – they are the future of our politics, whether that’s as voters or if they want to get involved in politics themselves.”

After hearing from politicians from each of the main political parties, the students then had their chance to vote, and Liberal Democrats Lisa and Jake were delighted to be returned as winners.

Lisa added: “Voting is important – if I had my way then everyone over the age of 16 would be able to vote. If we trust 16 year olds to be able to have jobs and pay taxes, we should trust them to vote too. 

“I am delighted that having heard from all the parties that the students chose myself and Jake, and that our core values – fairness and opportunity – really resonated with them.”