Alok Sharma, the local Member of Parliament for Reading West, has visited Little Heath School to discuss a host of political topics, including Brexit, climate change, immigration, public services and his role within the Department for International Development.

The hour-long session was aimed at encouraging pupils to engage in an active political discussion with a focus on current affairs, including a Q and A style conversation.

Following the recent Government pledge to boost schools funding, Alok welcomes the news that Little Heath School will receive over 4% more funding per pupil in 2020-2021. Schools across Reading West will benefit from the funding boost, reassuring every parent that their child is receiving a world class education.

This funding follows the Prime Minister’s announcement in August that the budget for schools and high needs would be increased by a total of over £14 billion over three years, rising to £52.2 billion by 2022-23.

The visit was a valuable opportunity for Alok to witness the pupils’ keen interest in politics and to hear their thoughts and viewpoints on a wide range of topics.

During the visit, Alok was delighted to speak to pupils about his new role as Secretary of State for International Development. The students were enthusiastic participants in the interesting discussion about UK development aid. Alok shared with the groups his thoughts and insights.

Alok Sharma said: “I was delighted to visit Little Heath School and engage with students in a lively discussion. It was great to hear their thoughts and opinions on a wide range of topics and I very much enjoyed the visit.”

Carl Taylor, Head of Politics at Little Heath School, said: “We were delighted to welcome Alok Sharma to Little Heath School to give a talk to take questions from pupils. Over 200 students attended from years 7-13 and questioned Mr Sharma on topics ranging from recycling in Reading, travel after Brexit and diversity within the House of Commons. We were very grateful that Mr Sharma gave up time in his busy schedule to take questions from students.”

Photos: Alok Sharma speaking to students at Little Heath School.

Reading Youth Council Member Shozib Ellahi, Reading Youth Council Member Zarah Khan, Alok Sharma MP, Reading Youth Council Member Marya Waseem.