A PARLIAMENTARY candidate visited a school to speak to eco-conscious pupils about issues impacting the local and international environment.

Priti Patel, who is the Conservative Party’s parliamentary candidate for Witham, led a talk and Q&A at Soaring High Montessori Primary School in Coggeshall on Friday.

Addressing Year 5 and 6 students Mrs Patel spoke about her experiences in Westminster, giving an insight into the world of politics and Parliament.

Her visit came after she received letters from the school’s students voicing their concerns regarding the state of the environment.

These issues were touched on during a Q&A session in which Mrs Patel was asked about the Rivenhall incinerator, the use of plastic, and Government’s role in fighting climate change.

Ms Helen Horton, who is a teacher at Soaring High Montessori Primary School said: “Our year 5 and 6 pupils found Priti’s talk fascinating and were thrilled to be able to ask their questions face to face.

“It was great that Priti found time out of her busy schedule to be with us.

“Politics affects us all, so it is important for young people to have a good understanding of how the Parliamentary process works.”

In addition to Priti Patel (Con), the candidates for Witham in the Dec 12 General Election are Martin Edobor (Lab), Sam North (Lib Dem) and James Abbott (Green).