I was delighted to host Hamzah Zia, a student at Hatch End High, in North West London for a week of work experience in the House of Commons. Having undertaken work experience myself, as a 15 year old, I am a huge believer in the opportunities which this form of experience can bring. Hamzah’s work experience was arranged by the Social Mobility Foundation. Below are Hamzah’s thoughts of his week in Parliament and politics in general. We wish Hamzah the very best with his future studies and look forward to keeping in contact.

Hamzah writes of his experience in Parliament:

My one week internship in the parliamentary office of Huw Merriman began on the 26th October 2015. During the week I had the honour of shadowing MP Huw Merriman from Bexhill and Battle and gained a unique insight into the world of politics that many are unable to have. Some of the tasks which were given to me included research work on the Junior Doctor’s contracts and the Housing Bill which helped formulate his speech in the Houses of Commons.  I also had the privilege to attend meetings between Huw and cabinet ministers, a debate on tax credits in the Houses of Commons and a select committee meeting on transport.

After spending a week with MP Huw Merriman my general perception of MP’s has truly changed from what it was before. The expenses scandal, NHS fraud and MP’s out of touch with the common man were some of the thoughts that first came to me when I thought about politicians.  But my week with Huw has proved to me that this is not always the case as I witnessed him constantly work for the well-being and satisfaction of his constituents. His constituents and party are very fortunate to have an MP that works extremely hard for his people and party.

My experience with Huw has not only revived my interest in politics but also taught me not to possess stereotypical views about any profession. I am very grateful to him and his staff for giving me such an experience which I can never forget and I recommend work experiences like this to every teenager as it will really help broaden your horizon and change your perception of politics in the UK.