Senior Labour politicans watch on as Rory Weal gives his debut speech (picture by Paul Clarke)

by political editor Paul Francis

pfrancis@thekmgroup.co.uk

A 16-year-old student from Maidstone has been given a rapturous reception at the Labour party conference for a debut speech attacking government cuts on young people.

Rory Weal found himself being compared to William Hague – who also hit the headlines for a party speech as a teenager in 1977 – by several commentators after earning an ovation from the conference.

In an impassioned speech, Rory – an A-level student at Oakwood Park Grammar School – told delegates the government was giving young people a "raw deal".

He said: "This government appears to have taken a bit of a dislike to young people, with the Future Jobs Fund cut, Education Maintenance Allowance (EMA) scrapped and tuition fees trebled. It's fair to say this Tory-led Government is giving young people a pretty raw deal.

"In a very ruthless and uncompromising way, the coalition has cast aside all the progress made over the last 13 years."

Audio: Jude Bevan, assistant head at Oakwood Park grammar school, speaks to reporter Nisha Chopra

Speaking after the speech, Oakwood Park headteacher Kevin Moody said he was very proud of the history, geography and politics Year 12 student.

He claimed the student was an "example" to youngsters everywhere.

He said: "It was absolutely fantastic.

"We knew he was at the conference because he had asked our permission to take part.

"We're very proud, it was a wonderful performance, very confident.

"He came to our school in Year 10 and we've known he was interested in politics since then.

"He told me earlier this year he was hoping to speak at the Labour Party Conference.

"We're very thrilled he's done it."

Mr Moody said the school were thinking about organising a special assembly for their rising star on his return.

He added: "We're hoping he'll give a talk to the other students about his experiences.

"He's an example of the good things young people can do for the world."