PUPILS from Burford School were among 32 students from schools selected to take part in a debate at the Foreign Office in London.

The students played the part of the 15 members of the UN Security Council, and debated a fictitious draft declaration on conflict in Africa.

Before the debate they questioned Baroness Amos, the Foreign Office Minister for Africa.

Baroness Amos said: "We wanted the students to experience international affairs at first hand, and find out what the work of diplomats around the world can involve. I also wanted to explore with them how the United Nations affects the lives of everyone. As the international community wrestles with such complex issues as tackling poverty in Africa or how to end Saddam Hussein's defiance of the UN, this event underlines the responsibility that rests on the shoulders of the United Nations."