EAST Lothian MSP Iain Gray has visited North Berwick High School to speak to two classes of S1 modern studies pupils.

Mr Gray talked to the two groups of pupils about his role as the county’s MSP and how the Scottish Parliament works before answering their questions.

He said it was a “pleasure” to return to the school and speak to the youngsters.

Mr Gray added: “Despite having participated in dozens of different Q&As during my numerous visits to local schools, pupils always manage to come up with new and more challenging questions.

“It is also very clear during these visits that young people are now better informed and more engaged than ever.

“That is good news for our democracy because, with 16 and 17-year-olds being able to vote at Holyrood and local elections, it’s important that they understand how our political system works when they’re casting their vote.”

And the politician praised the youngsters for asking questions about local issues, adding: “We had a really good discussion about housebuilding and the cost of housing in North Berwick.

“It is clear that the town’s young people share their parents’ concerns about pressure on the town’s infrastructure, but they also have a real interest in being able to choose to live in their home town when they leave the family and not find themselves driven out by housing costs.”