The unique debate was part of the Parliamentary Outreach project which aims to educate youngsters about how the British political system operates.

It was hosted by Assembly chair Jennette Arnold as more tha 200 young people from a broad range of social backgrounds were given the chance to have their say on how the London 2012 Games will touch their communities.

London Assembly members James Cleverly, John Biggs, Caroline Pidgeon and Jenny Jones were also on hand to answer questions and give their take on the issues and at the end of the session around 80 per cent of the young people in attendance said that they thought the Games would have a positive effect on London.

"It's fantastic to see so many young people taking an interest in politics and wanting to get involved," said Arnold.

"Their interest and enthusiasm really shone through with some impressively incisive and informed questions from the audience.

"The 2012 Games is going to have a huge impact on our city and it was really heartening to see people from such a broad cross-section of the community wanting to be part of the Games spirit."

The young people, all aged between 12 and 19, came from a variety of schools, youth clubs and community organisations from across London including disability groups, youth offending teams, the London Gypsy and Traveller unit and Refugee Youth.

They also included around 20 members of the Legacy Youth Panel, which was set up by the Olympic Park Legacy Company to help shape plans to develop and animate the future Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park in Stratford over the next 25 years.

The debate was organised by the Greater London Authority's Peer Outreach Team to give young people an insight into how London's Government works and have their voices heard.

Kishan Patel, a 16-year-old from Newham who was part of the debate, said: "A successful legacy is a long term aim but we must act now in order to achieve it.

"That's why it was important to be able to share our views with the Legacy Youth Panel, Assembly Members and other young people.

"The opportunities that come from the future Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park will have a massive impact on our communities.

"The London 2012 Games will be the largest sporting event ever in London, but the legacy will tell the story of its success for generations to come."

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