London's youngsters get taste of EU life.

10.20.40am UTC (GMT +0000) Tue 20th Dec 2005

Sarah Ludford with a group of sixth formers from City and Islington college

Baroness Sarah Ludford MEP has been spreading the word about the benefits of the EU to the next generation of Londoners. She welcomed a group of sixth formers from City and Islington college to the European Parliament, talking to them about her work and answering their questions. She said:

"I am always heartened by young people taking an interest in European matters, especially given the bad press the European Parliament often gets in the UK! I hope they enjoyed their visit, and that they will continue to follow European affairs in the future. They were certainly motivated about human rights and equality issues, which was encouraging."

Sarah has also sent a message of congratulation to Enfield youngster Ahmad Arbad who won the British Council/Hansard Society essay competition on "what has the EU ever done for me?" She said:

"Ahmad's essay is hugely inspiring in valuing the EU's 'gifts' of freedom, security and equality of respect. He goes right to the core of what the EU stands for."