BOOKS and politics were on the agenda for Settle Primary School.

Skipton and Ripon MP Julian Smith visited the North Craven School for a packed afternoon launching the school council’s book swap initiative and helping year six pupils plan their forthcoming trip to the Houses of Parliament.

The school council has set up a book swap, based in next-door Booths Supermarket, with children’s books available to swap for all in the community.

The project was thought up and organised by the youngsters on the school council, who also went to Booths to successfully pitch the idea to management there.

School council mentor, teacher Laura Thompson, said: “We are very proud of our school council members, who have followed through on an idea which will benefit the whole community.”

Mr Smith praised the way the children had worked together and successfully set up their initiative.

He said: “I am especially impressed with how well the school council used their persuasive skills to convince the managers at Booths to host their book swap.”

Mr Smith also spent time with Miss Thompson’s year six group, who are visiting London in June. Part of their trip includes going to the Houses of Parliament.

Headteacher Richard Wright said: “It was a pleasure to welcome Mr Smith to our school and show him around. The children have learnt a lot about the way Government works and the year sixes are now even more excited about their London residential trip next year.”