Question Time for campaigner Paris

Paris Lees was the first out transgender panellist to appear on the BBC1 political programme which aired on Thursday night.

But it was her opinions and views and speaking from the heart that won over the studio audience and those watching at home.

“I was terrified as I didn’t know what questions would come up,” said Paris, who topped this year’s Pink List for the most influential lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender figures in the UK.

The panellists on the night included Labour MP Chris Bryant, Conservative MP Matthew Hancock, Liberal Democrat MP Jeremy Browne and the author Harriet Sergeant who debated the merits of the high speed rail link and privatisation of the Probation Service.

It was Paris’ first hand experience of the probation service that prompted the warm reception and support.

“I felt the audience were behind me because I was open and honest about my own experiences but I just told it like it was and spoke for working class people.

“By inviting me onto the panel it shows things are changing and my opinions and ideas count. I have a voice to be heard.”