SOUTHAMPTON youngsters have had the chance to air their views on politics at a meeting with one of the city's MPs.

The aim of the two-hour long session was to find out why fewer and fewer young people are voting, and to discuss with them ways to improve turnout.

It follows a report commissioned by Southampton Itchen MP and minister for young people John Denham, called Yvote Ynot, that drew together a series of recommendations targeted at getting people aged between 18 and 24 more interested in politics.

The debate was held at the city council's Civic Centre headquarters and included representative of all the schools and colleges in his constituency.

Schools participating included Itchen College, Southampton City College, Chamberlayne Park School, Woodlands School, Woolston School, Weston Park Boys school, Cantell School, Sholing Technical College, Bitterne Park School and St Anne's Convent School.

Mr Denham said: "As minister for children and young people, I spend a lot of time hearing the views of young people and trying to ensure that government listens to and consults with young people.

"I commissioned the Yvote Ynot report after only 39 per cent of 18 to 24-year-olds voted at the last general election.

"I wanted to find out from young people how they thought we can better engage with young people in the future, so that we can ensure they are involved and included in political processes."