To mark International Women’s Day, Labour MP John Healey invited two teenagers from Rotherham to spend the day in Westminster today (8 March).
The young women were Emily Walker and Annabel Lees, both 17, who attend Wickersley sixth form.
All of the young people taking part in the programme were encouraged to ask questions of MPs related to International Women’s Day.
As well as shadowing their MP, the programme included a tour of 10 Downing Street and the chance to watch the Women and Equalities Select Committee and the International Women’s Day debate in the House of Commons Chamber.
Annabel said: “Today was good experience for young women to see what goes on in Westminster and it was good to hear directly from women MPs.”
Emily said: “It was a good opportunity for young women to be in Parliament and to learn about the level of inequality and the ways we can deal with it.”
John said: “So many inspirational women have made their mark in Westminster, so it seems fitting to celebrate International Women’s Day by showcasing this to young people from the constituency.
“It is vital to support and encourage young women all year round, but it is also great to get the chance to do something special to mark this day.”
John invited Niamh Lawton, a student from Swinton Community School, to visit Parliament for a similar event last year.