Members of our Student Executive Team recently had the opportunity to meet with our local council MP, Gareth Thomas, to discuss issues that matter to young people and our wider community. These included the regulation of social media, a proposed phone curfew for 16–17 year olds, and the increasing crime rate around Harrow. 

The meeting provided a valuable platform for students to share their perspectives, ask questions, and learn more about how local decisions are made. Questions raised during the Student Council meeting were also presented and answered by Gareth Thomas. 

1. Regulation of social media.  

We have questioned how minorities in society, such as young people with disabilities or mental health issues, who may find it easier to express themselves and connect with society through social media, will be supported by the government if social media is banned.  

Gareth responded that the argument is powerful. However, the potential harm caused to young people by social media is too significant to be ignored, as shown by past experiences. This remains a challenge for society, and as a country, we need to improve the way we support people in expressing themselves freely. 

2. Increasing crime rate around Harrow. 

Gareth stated that the council has placed a large number of police units in areas such as South Harrow and Wealdstone to ensure public safety. However, with rising crime cases in other areas, the community needs to become more engaged by reporting incidents to the police or directly to Gareth to help create change. The council will assign police units based on previous reported cases. 

3. Recommendations for 17 year olds interested in starting a career in politics. 

He recommended that if you want to become a frontline politician, you should be prepared for it to be a short term career, as you will face elections every five years. You should also choose a political party that you feel comfortable working with. However, if you want to work in the political world in roles such as a journalist, adviser, or lawyer, you should choose a field that interests you, and politics will eventually connect with you in some way. The best approach is to identify your own interests, gain relevant work experience, and understand what the career is really like. 

The conversation was engaging and insightful, allowing our team to better understand the role of representatives and the importance of having young voices involved in conversations about the future. 

Our Student Executive Team would like to thank the Gareth for taking the time to meet with us and for listening to student ideas. This experience has encouraged us to continue representing our school community and creating opportunities for students to make a difference. 

Anjaylia Yau | Student Executive