An 18-year-old from South Norwood who could become the youngest ever MP at the next general election has labelled Croydon's sixth-form provision as shocking'.

Emily Benn, granddaughter of veteran Labour politician Tony Benn and niece of environment secretary Hilary Benn, was selected to contest the East Worthing and Shoreham constituency in West Sussex, last month.

If elected, the teenager, who turned 18 last Thursday, would become the youngest ever MP and the fifth generation of her family to enter parliament.

However, speaking on the blog on her website, she claimed many of the friends she went to primary school with she now sees carrying guns and knives.

She said: "When I left my local primary school, I left with my classmates getting very good SATs results, and looking forward to getting good GCSE results in five years time. But something went wrong along the way.

"I went off to a girls' school some distance away, while the others mostly went to the local comprehensive. While this is a fast-improving school under an inspirational head, last year over 40 per cent of pupils still left without five GCSEs.

"What prospects do these students have? The sixth-form provision in Croydon is shocking, with under-performing colleges or religious schools the only options.

"I see them now hanging around the local parks, greens and alleyways. Most are in gangs, many are carrying knives and guns."

Emily has been a member of the Labour Party since she was allowed to join at 14, and first campaigned for them in 1991 at just two years of age. She currently phone canvasses in Croydon with Young Labour and delivers a regular leaflet.

Although she recognises that she is young, Emily does not feel that hinders her life experience.

She said: "As an A-level student I experience and understand the issues and problems young people face today.

"But these are not just youth issues, they affect all people in society. Living in a deprived area I deal with the threat of crime, lack of affordable housing, healthcare and education, all issues I am keen to address in any way I can."

  • What do you think? Is 18 really old enough to be a member of parliament?