Rotherham's youngsters urged to tackle politicians over big issues

The Heads Up forum is being run by the Hansard Society and gives 11 to 18-year olds the chance to debate national issues.

It runs until March 22 and as it is taking place around International Women’s Day, some of the discussion is around women’s representation in society.

Wentworth and Dearne MP John Healey has emailed schools, colleges and Rotherham’s Youth Parliament to urge them to take part.

His first post on the forum reads: "I'd really like to see this debate get going. It's so important - especially as I sit in the House of Commons facing ranks of men in suits.

"So what do you think of the fact the UK is ranked a lowly 57th for women's parliamentary representation?

"What do you think policymakers and political parties could do to change this?

"What difference do you think many more elected women MPs would make to our politics in Britain?

"And finally, the men in suits will be out in force on 20 March when the Chancellor George Osborne announces his Budget... what do you think is the one most important thing he could do to show he'd understood and responded to the priorities of women?"

You can view the forum at www.headsup.org.uk