Rowen gives young people their say

Was it right to invade Iraq? How do we stop global warming? Should student fees be scrapped? Should trains run later at weekends? How do we make poverty history? Do you think there should be more live music events in Rochdale? Just some of the questions in Paul Rowen's Annual Youth Survey which will be arriving on the doorsteps of over 2,000 young people in Rochdale over the next few days. Mr Rowen has timed his survey to coincide with many of Rochdale's young people receiving their A-Level results this week.

He said: "It is vital that politicians communicate and listen to people of all ages. This year, I have written to over 2,000 people on a variety of issues. This includes education, the environment, nightlife, transport, housing and other issues. It is also the biggest canvas of opinion of young people about a peak-only congestion charge in return £3 Billion of investment in public transport.

"I know that many young people feel disenfranchised by their politicians and this type of engagement should change that.

"My survey last year led to a few young people joining the party and opened up a dialogue that has helped me immensely over the last year.

"I hope that as many young people as possible respond so I can learn more of their priorities and take up their concerns. Whether it is later trains at weekends, our recycling policies, the lack of live music events or anything else, I want to know."