Young Scots are going to be making history on Friday when they take part in a debate in the House of Commons at Westminster.

The UK Youth Parliament will be taking over the chamber for part of the day. Of the 200 members, 27 are from Scotland. 

It will be the first time anyone other than MPs have debated in the Commons. The historic move will see elected 11 to 18-year-old members of Youth Parliament debate issues of concern to young people across the UK. 

The main issues they'll debate are "Lowering the voting age to 16", "Youth crime and how to tackle it", "Public transport for young people", "Jobs for young people and the economy" and "University fees".

Prime Minister Gordon Brown has issued his strong support. He said: "Friday is the first time in 300 years that anyone other than MPs have debated in the House of Commons chamber. 

"It is entirely fitting that this historic moment has been brought about by young people from across our country, who are taking over the House to debate issues that really matter to them."

"These 300 young people have, in the great tradition of our democracy, been elected by their peers, with the privilege and responsibility of representing the interests of their constituents, and with the duty to try and make a difference.

"They will come together as representatives of the passion, creativity and dedication of all our young people, to remind all of us just what Parliament is really for."

"At a time when we are having to rebuild trust in politicians and sweep away many of the practices and systems of the past, this very special session of the Youth Parliament will be a symbol of the politics we should all strive for – politics that bring people together to work for what is best for us all."

The Speaker of the House of Commons, Rt Hon. John Bercow MP, will introduce the session.

He said: "I am delighted to welcome the Youth Parliament delegates to the House. This is an historic moment and one which I hope will show young people that the House of Commons, and the work that goes on here, is relevant to their lives."