LABOUR MP Jim Knight met air-training cadets for the first time at a special presentation evening.

Mr Knight spent two-and-a-half hours with the Weymouth cadets and watched a demonstration of the activities on offer, including drill instruction and shooting lessons.

The air training corps cadets then held a question and answer session with the MP, who sits on the Government's select committee on defence.

He answered questions ranging from how much he gets paid as an MP and the qualifications needed for the job, to the Government's view on Iraq.

The MP for South Dorset then told the cadets about his time spent in countries affected by war, including Afghanistan.

Mr Knight said: "The ATC have an important role in the community and what they are doing with the young people who go there in terms of the experiences is excellent.

"There is a very positive range of activities for young people and at a time when the armed forces are looking to improve their recruitment level, it's encouraging to learn that 50 per cent of cadets join the RAF.

"I fully support what they do and encourage any youngsters who want to have an active experience to join them."

Flight-Lieutenant Peter Pinckston, who was in charge of the presentation day, said: "We applied three months ago for special permission to allow Mr Knight to visit us, but it was worth the wait as the cadets really enjoyed meeting him and asking him questions."