What is more important than remembering our Armed Forces?

In the 20th century, millions of British soldiers died to protect our freedoms and way of life. In Iraq and Afghanistan every day our troops are risking their lives.

That's why events like Armistice Day and Battle of Britain Day are vitally important: they bring people together to remember what Britain is, and how it has been protected over the years.

Often people are worried that these events are just for older people. But you know it is one of the great myths in our society that young people do not care about politics. When I visit schools and Harlow College, my experience is that young people care passionately about the world, and the humanitarian efforts that Britain makes.

That's also why I have recently teamed up with former poet laureate, Sir Andrew Motion, to launch a Harlow Poetry Competition, on the theme of War and Conflict.

It will be open to every Harlow Primary and Secondary School pupil, and I will be writing to every school to invite them to take part.

The poem should not be much more than 25 lines, although it can be shorter, and must be about the contribution of our armed forces.

The competition will be judged by an independent panel of Harlow people, including Harlow Council Chairwoman Sue Livings, John Steer Vice-Chairman of Harlow Arts Council, and David Yeld, Headteacher of Downs School.

The winner will be invited to read their poem in the House of Commons on Armistice Day (11 November 2010) alongside Sir Andrew Motion, when he launches a memoir of his father's experience in the Normandy landings in World War Two.

All the winners and runners up will be invited to attend. Although I won't be one of the judges myself, I'm looking forward to reading all the poems, and seeing what the young people in Harlow have to say.

Closing date for entries is 30th September 2010.

If you would like to enter, and are under the age of 18 and at school, please send your poem toharlowpoetry@gmail.com

Or write to:

Harlow Poetry Competition
Robert Halfon MP, Room 34A,
House of Commons, Westminster
London SW1A OAA

For more details see my blog roberthalfon.blogspot.com or my website www.roberthalfon.com