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What motivated you to become a Member of Parliament?

I got interested in politics when I was 13 - but then mostly in the United Nations and international affairs. There's something called Model UN which I used to do a lot - simulations of how the UN works, where pupils/students represent different countries. It was lots of fun!

Then when I got older I became more interested in local politics - because you can actually change things! I joined the Lib Dems when I was 17, having discovered that I agreed with a lot of what they said. I then campaigned for them as a student, and became a Councillor when I was 22. Then, when there was a vacancy in Cambridge, where I live and grew up, I went for it!

How can young people get the attention of their MP?

It's worth writing to the MP, by letter or email, but only really if you write your own words; form emails don't have much effect. Better, though, is to come along and talk! I and most MPs have regular surgeries - you can make an appointment and come along, to talk about whatever you want!

Marches can be ignored by government, how can young people better influence the political process?

See above - arguing your cases sensible, making time to go and talk to someone.

What is the best source of experience for young people aspiring to become Members of Parliament?

Life. No question. There are too many people who go straight into politics, and have less to offer. Do something - almost whatever it may be. At the same time, get involved with the local branch of whichever party you belong to. They should be very keen to have you around! You can learn a lot by helping out with campaigning, going to conferences and discussing policy issues.

Do you believe that young adults can become MPs without university degrees?

I hope so - but it's never an easy route for anyone. We need MPs from all different backgrounds and interests.

Is Parliament representative of society?

Sadly, no. It has too many people from Oxbridge, too many white men, too many private school pupils, and so forth (I plead guilty to all of those ...). We need to do a lot of work to attract people from all backgrounds to get involved, stand for parliament and get elected.

Which is more important; representing the needs of local constituents or following the party line?

It's not that simple. In order to actually achieve anything, you have to be able to work with other people, whether in your own party or cross-party. That must mean negotiating, and not just insisting on your own way. That's the basis of the parties. Having said that, on an issue of great principle, or local importance, it is important that you are prepared to stand firm, and not just take the easy route.

Do you believe that your amendment to phase out all student fees was rightfully rejected?

I proposed that amendment because I believe in it - I think higher education should be free, and paid for out of general taxation, rather than by the students directly. I've campaigned against tuition fees ever since Labour first introduced them - I was a student at the time. My amendment, sadly, wasn't selected for a debate or a vote, so there was no opportunity to see who else agreed with me. Still I tried! The best I could do was to vote against the latest rise, but we lost that vote.

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