After Woodside House, dashed to Nightingale Primary School where the children had written to me about the terrible situation for water in Tanzania. I had already written back to them all individually (hopefully giving them a good idea of how our democratic processes should work!). This bunch are bright as buttons. Hand after hand shot up with question upon question. And full marks to their teachers – as it was clear that they had been prepped for my visit and their interest had been really stimulated. That’s the way to do it.

In writing their letters to me (which had all been individual) they had learned, not only about the water issues in Tanzania, not only about helping and caring about people across the world and about poverty, but also about democracy, how to write a letter and lots of other stuff that life is made of. I was well impressed by this group.

What was funny in their letters was that the last paragraph in one form or another asked me, as the MP, to give lots of money to Africa and hold charity events to raise money to Africa. They were a bit shocked when I explained that my salary went on my house, food and children – just like everyone else and that I had no money as such as an MP to give.

So I explained that the Government has money for international aid and that I would write to Douglas Alexander (Secretary of State for International Development) and ask him to help with the situation in Tanzania. And in terms of me holding a charity event myself – I explained that if I did that for one cause then how would I refuse another equally deserving cause. But that if they wanted to do a charity event – then I would be very happy to come and support it. I just wish I did have a magic wand – but it’s not yet part of the MP kit!

Anyway – as I say – these children were absolutely great and I have suggested they come up to Parliament for a tour and then they can have another hour to interrogate me – as there were clearly lots more questions but time ran out.