FORGET Question Time, an MP was grilled by schoolchildren yesterday.

Youngsters at Parkside Academy in Willington quizzed North West Durham MP Laura Pidcock on everything from sexism and Brexit, to the distribution of wealth and the privatisation of state-owned services.

The Labour politician, who took over the seat from Pat Glass in June, also spoke about mental health and the importance of seeking help, and the need to support those unable to work.

Other questions focused on the day-to-day life of an MP and what it is like to work in the Houses of Parliament in London.

And, when asked about the best and worst things in politics, Miss Pidcock answered increased political engagement for the former, and Donald Trump for the latter.

“The questions have been amazing and so insightful,” she said.

“They are such a switched on group of young people and I am very impressed.

“Anyone who thinks young people are apathetic needs to think are again.They are very engaged and eager to discuss issues.”

Miss Pidcock also told the children about her background and what led her to become a politician, including her time at Manchester Metropolitan University, where she studied politics , and Northumbria University, where she completed a masters in crisis management.