Today is International Women's Day, and I wanted to take the opportunity to speak about the importance of women in our political system and society, and, despite the dramatic changes that have already taken place, we still have a long way to go.
The first female MP to take her seat in the House of Commons was Nancy Astor, who won a by-election for Plymouth Sutton in 1919. In the Chamber today, we have 226 female MPs, 7 female cabinet ministers, and 2 female Deputy-Speakers of the House.
A woman’s place is wherever she wants it to be: in the armed forces, the Houses of Parliament, in business and finance, or wherever else she chooses. Today is about celebrating the success and influence of women in the UK and around the world, and honouring the sacrifices that countless women have made so that we can be here today.
If anyone wants to get in touch to find out more, or for advice or help in becoming involved as a woman in politics, then don’t hesitate to email me on [email protected].
