AN MP has visited a number of school children in his constituency to discuss the effects of climate change and the “importance” of renewable energy.

Stockton North MP Alex Cunningham spoke to pupils at St Michael’s Catholic Academy in Billingham, as well as children from St Joseph’s Primary School in Norton and Most Holy Rosary School in Billingham.

Speaking at the event, Mr Cunningham said: “Some people think we should spend money in our country but you guys are right. We need to invest in people overseas.”

“There’s no excuse for not giving people solar panel technology.

“We have a responsibility to our fellow human beings in order to make sure they get a better opportunity to have a good quality of life.”

The meeting was organised by Catholic the aid agency CAFOD.

Its latest Power to Be campaign focuses on how supporting cleaner, renewable forms of energy can help people living in poverty.

CAFOD representative Jeremy Cain said: “It shows the future for these young people is bright if the right decisions are made regarding climate change and renewable energy.”