Updated 27 May 2003, 08.34

But when it comes to the election of politicians, lots of people don't bother to vote.

And that is causing lots of concern - which is why the powers-that-be have tried stuff like voting on the web and by text message.

One politician, Kevin Brennan, raised the popularity of shows like Big Brother in parliament last week.

"In the recent local elections fewer people voted than vote in many reality TV game shows," he said.

He wonders if the people in charge of elections can learn anything from that.....wonder if they're tuning in to the Big Brother house?!!

He says "grannies from New York" are happy to fly to Britain - but "swashbuckling" stars like Tom Cruise don't like the idea.

The star says that's just rubbish.

I bet Tom and his pals would like a little chat with Mr Howells - but will they dare fly over to see him?!!

Name:
Peter Viggers
Age:
65
Where are you from?
Gosport
Party:
Conservative
School nickname:
Viggie.
Greatest achievement:
As minister (one of the politicians who run things), the privatisation of two of the biggest companies in Northern Ireland. As an MP, winning pensions for 25,000 widows of people who served in the army, navy or air force.
Inspiration:
Lord Nelson - who led the British navy triumphantly before dying at the Battle of Trafalgar in 1805
Last movie I saw:
Russian Ark
Football team:
Gosport and Fareham Rugby Club
MP I admire:
Oliver Letwin - the Conservative spokesman on things like law and order.
Were you interested in politics as a child?
Yes
Job before becoming an MP?
Lawyer and banker.
Why does politics matter?
It deals with the big decisions about the future of the country.
What one thing would you change tomorrow?
Make people more considerate of each other.

Sophie also asks: We have a lot of problems around our local park, which kids vandalise. Is there any way you can sort it out? If Sophie lets me know which particular park she means, I will be happy to make enquiries.

MiP adds: You can write to Mr Viggers at House of Commons, London SW1A OAA. Or check out his website: http://www.peterviggers.co.uk/

Politicians are now having a short break - I'll be back on 10 June

Want to know who your MP is?

Got a question for our Man in Parliament?

Send stuff to him using this form!

Your first name

Your age

Your town

Your postcode

Any comments or questions for our MiP

Send us your details if you'd like us to hunt out your MP! We'll put a new one up each week.

More Info

Photos of the top MPs

How does Parliament work?

Past Stories
	The MiP files: Learning in your living room!
	The MiP files: Targeting the litter louts!
	The MiP files: Ban for TV ads aimed at kids?
	The MiP files: The man in charge of the money
	The MiP files: Bend it like Becks - at school!
	The MiP files: How many PCs in your school?
	The MiP files: How much should teens be paid?

Web Links
	UK Parliament site for kids
Note: You will leave CBBC. We are not responsible for other websites.