James Duddridge, MP for Rochford and Southend East, welcomed 55 delegates from 21 Commonwealth countries for the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association’s Westminster Seminar.

Delegates came from countries as diverse as Australia, Zambia and Pakistan.

The seminar is aimed at first term Parliamentarians and newly-appointed clerks and officials from across the Commonwealth.

The programme included debates, panel discussions and networking events to encourage strong relationships between the Commonwealth countries.

Mr Duddridge,m who was elected chairman of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association in July, said: “It was a privilege to welcome the delegates to Westminster. It was fascinating to talk to many delegates about their experiences.”