MP congratulates new youth MP from South Lakeland

South Lakes MP Tim Farron has congratulated Kendal student Tom Latham on being elected as the first ever Member of the Youth Parliament representing South Lakeland and Barrow. Tim paid tribute to all those who voted and took part in the elections as candidates, campaigners and helpers.

Tom, a student at Queen Katherine School, was one of over thirty youth parliament candidates who put themselves forward across Cumbria, with three being elected. Tom's manifesto contained featured major issues like lowering the voting age to 16 and making sure public transport is cheaper for young people.

Candidates were aged between 11 and 18 and were not affiliated to any particular political parties. The three elected candidates will sit in the Youth Parliament at the House of Commons, representing the views of young people in their constituency.

Tim said: "I have already congratulated Tom and I look forward to meeting him this week to discuss how I can help him in his new role. Votes at 16 and cheaper public transport are both campaigns I support too and I look forward to working with him in his new role.

"I want to pay tribute to everyone who stood in the Youth Parliament elections and voted. It takes real guts to put themselves forward for these roles and I would urge more people from South Lakeland to stand for the role at the next opportunity."