POLITICIANS were in the hotseat as they fielded challenging questions from Notts teenagers.
Broxtowe MP Anna Soubry, St Ann's councillor Dave Liversidge and Nottingham youth MP Uzair Hashmi were quizzed on politics, education, employment and the benefits system.
The event at the East Midlands Conference Centre yesterday was organised by the National Citizen Service.
Abigail Nichols, 16, of Sherwood, was among those wanting to hear what the politicians had to say.
The former Bulwell Academy student said: "It's good to be able to have the chance to ask the people who make important decisions questions. It's not everyone who has this opportunity."
First on the agenda was politics, with Mark Taylor asking whether the panel felt that politicians are engaged with the youth.
Uzair responded: "Definitely not. They are not doing enough at grass roots level for young people.
"They should do more to engage with young people as they are the ones who are making decisions about our future."
Ms Soubry said: "Probably not. We don't want to be in a situation where you have to be of a certain age to represent people of a certain age."
They were also asked about what the most difficult part of their job was.
Miss Soubry replied: "We don't have enough hours in the day or the week."
Mr Liversidge added: "The job is rewarding but also frustrating when you can't get the answers for people that you want.
"There can be too much bureaucracy at times."
The National Citizen Service is a programme run for 16 and 17-year-olds which sees them do activities like canoeing and abseiling and attend events designed to build their confidence and self-esteem.
Uzair, 18, who has been a youth MP for a year, said he felt it was important that youngsters had the opportunity to try new things.
"I did the scheme last year and found it a big help," he said. "Since then I've spoken in the House of Commons and become a youth MP."