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Students taste "real-life politics" at Junior Tynwald

Chloe Sloane commended for motion on referendums

Students from across the Island took centre stage in the Island's foremost political arena this morning, at the 2019 Junior Tynwald sitting.

The event gives younger generations the chance to quiz politicians on topics of their choosing, in situ at the Legislative Buildings in Douglas.

Fifteen questions were submitted for oral answer, including three for Education, Sport and Culture Minister Graham Cregeen.

Refugees, the EU referendum, income tax rates, mental health and the environment all featured on a wide-ranging agenda.

Not all questions were discussed during the allocated hour, so some were given written answers instead.

There were also two motions put to the court by students.

Miss E Mitchell moved: "that Junior Tynwald is of the opinion that oil and gas exploration in Manx waters is likely to be detrimental to the environment and should be stopped."

Miss C Sloane moved: "that Junior Tynwald is of the opinion that greater use should be made of referendums to enhance the democratic process."

At the end of the sitting, Chloe Sloane was especially commended for her contributions by Speaker of the House of Keys Juan Watterson.

Miss Sloane said the experience helped reassure her on her career choice:

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