MP Shadowing Scheme was launched in Westminster fanfare

From 650 applicants 23 two people from around the country were chosen for this historic project.

Ammindeep Ghajr from Trafford, Manchester has one of the coveted places.

The six-month pilot project is part of OBV's wider programme to address the under-representation of Black people in local and national democratic institutions. It also aims to give politicians a greater understanding of the diverse communities they serve.

They will shadow a high profile MP or Peer for six months. Furthermore, the 'shadowers' will receive a comprehensive training programme, which includes 'how local, and national democracy works', 'how to get selected', 'Dealing with the media', and 'How policy is made'.

The Conservative Chairman the RT. Hon Michael Ancram, Labour's Rt. Hon Chris Smith and the Liberal Democrat Simon Hughes MP will be on hand for the launch at the House of Commons.

OBV Co-ordinator Simon Woolley stated: "I am extremely pleased that Ammindeep has won one of the prestigious places. I am absolutely convinced that that taking part will eventually take their place as elected representatives in public office."

Sir Herman Ouseley head of the CRE added: "Inclusion of ethnic minorities in the democratic process will ensure that British society makes the best use of all its talent in a multi-cultural and progressive society."

Notes for the editor:

Some of the Parliamentarians involved in the scheme. The Rt. Hon Charles Kennedy MP, Menzies Campbell MP, Simon Hughes MP, Richard Allen MP Jackie Ballard MP, Oona King MP, Fiona McTaggart MP, Barbara Follett, MP, Mike Wood MP, Lord Jeffrey Archer, John Gummer MP, and Peter Bottomly MP.