The boys and girls at Cross Arthurlie Primary School had clearly done their research before Renfrewshire South MSP Hugh Henry arrived to talk about his role at the Scottish Parliament and in his constituency.
Children in Primary 6 at the Barrhead school relished the opportunity to take part in a question and answer session with the Labour politician who is also Shadow Cabinet Minister for Education.
He was asked about a number of topics and issues including Independence for Scotland, unemployment, pensions, living conditions and whether or not he enjoyed his job.
Mr Henry was also quizzed on what he does to help constituents when he’s at Holyrood and how he can help them when he’s back at his office in Paisley; did he like debates and how many he had taken part in since he was elected a member in 1999; and if he ever wanted to be leader of the Labour Party.
The questions came thick and fast in an hour-long session which comes just weeks before the pupils are due to visit the Scottish Parliament on Tuesday, March 26 where they will enjoy a tour and the chance to meet more MSP’s and put them under the spotlight.
Mr Henry said: “The boys and girls had clearly studied very hard on their Scottish Parliament topic and put a lot of effort into researching the history and work of the MSPs.
“They came up with some great questions and I was impressed with their knowledge on the subject and their own vision of what politicians should be doing for them. It was great to see the children so enthusiastic about the Scottish Parliament, who does what and how decisions are made.”
Class teacher Gillian Cullen said: ”The children have been working incredibly hard on the topic and it was great to have Mr Henry come along and speak to them giving an excellent insight into life as an MSP and how the Scottish Parliament works.
“We are looking forward to going to Holyrood later this month and the children are really excited about the trip and seeing the Parliament for themselves.”
