The competition invites young people to make a three minute film telling Parliament what new law they would make.

The popular competition, now in its second year has seen previous entrants propose a wide range of new legislation, including banning size zero models and raising the minimum age of entry to the armed forces to 21.

Each year the six finalists are invited into Parliament to present their ideas to a judging panel of MPs and Peers and industry professionals. Finalists will also have their films screened as part of the Cultural Olympiad project, Arts in Parliament, in Westminster Hall this summer. Winning teams are supported in their future projects by receiving film making equipment and a visit to Pinewood Studios.

Maria said: “Lights, Camera, Parliament! is a fun and easy way for young people to learn about Parliament while gaining valuable skills. It is vital that we encourage opportunities that offer young people the chance to speak out about the issues that interest them.”

Maria added: “I have written to the Headteachers of all of the Secondary schools in Basingstoke, to alert them to this competition, and ask them to encourage their students to take part. It would be fantastic to see what ideas for new legislation young people in Basingstoke come up with.”