STUDENT tuition fees was one of the hot topics when local and national politicians received a “grilling” from Warrington students.
The Question Time-style event is held each year at Priestley College to promote active citizenship and local democracy.
First up during a busy day was Liberal Democrat Peer Lord Sharkey. He gave students a presentation on the role of The House of Lords before hosting a question and answer session.
Then representatives from the leading political parties took their seats in the College Hall to field questions on a number of burning issues.
They included David Mowat, Conservative MP for Warrington South, Brian Simpson, Labour MEP for the North West, Bob Barr, Liberal Democrat councillor at Warrington, Maureen McLaughlin, Labour councillor at Warrington and Chief Superintendent Richard Strachan of Cheshire Police. Mayor of Warrington Cllr Mike Biggin took the chair.
Students took advantage of the opportunity to ask questions, and many asked about student tuition fees and the Building Schools for the Future programme.
Senior tutor Mark Salmon said: “It was very pleasing indeed to get such a good range of views and opinions represented on the panel.
“Allowing our students who are studying related subjects to interact with their representatives on this level is a very rewarding process.”
College Council vice president Jenny George said: “It was very interesting and enjoyable to welcome all of the visitors to campus. I’d like to place on record my thanks to everybody who made the day happen and to the panel members for taking time out of their busy schedules to attend.”
Pictured: Liberal Democrat Peer Lord Sharkey pictured with Priestley College Council vice president Jenny George.
