A YOUNG politician has been making her mark in the UK Youth Parliament. Kathryn Whalley, from Codicote, is one of six Hertfordshire members of the youth parliament who joined over 300 others for the annual sitting of the parliament at Kent University.

A YOUNG politician has been making her mark in the UK Youth Parliament.

Kathryn Whalley, from Codicote, is one of six Hertfordshire members of the youth parliament who joined over 300 others for the annual sitting of the parliament at Kent University.

The purpose of the four-day summit was to help draw up a national manifesto on issues that matter most to young people.

The 17-year-old took part in debates on the environment, mental health, crime and education and also heard talks by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Rowan Williams, and the Speaker of the House of Commons, John Bercow.

As the eastern region representative for the abolition of university fees, she also took part in these policy discussions.

"We really moved the manifesto along," she said, "And having seen what the West Midlands are doing I feel we need to do more campaigning in the east of England on this issue.

"I really enjoyed the whole weekend and found the Speaker of the House inspirational."

Richard Thake, Herts County Council Education and Skills portfolio holder, said: "The Youth Parliament's role is growing in importance in local, regional and national government.

"Going to the national assembly and engaging with MYPs from all over the UK is a great way for them to broaden their horizons, develop their confidence and help them gain a better understanding.