Basingstoke MP Maria Miller hosted an “EqualiTea” at Beggarwood Community Centre.
EqualiTeas are a celebration of the 90th anniversary of the Equal Franchise Act 1928 which gave all people the right to vote on an equal basis.
Attendees covered a range of local charities, businesses, colleges and services.
The event also showcased the 50:50 Campaign which calls upon Parliament and political party leaders to act to ensure a better gender balance at Westminster. All the main political parties agree that a gender balanced Parliament consisting of around 50% men and 50% women would be more representative and better informed.
Maria commented; “It was wonderful to hold the EqualiTea at Beggarwood Community Centre and celebrate the 90th Anniversary of the Equal Franchise Act giving all people the right to vote on an equal basis. The 50:50 campaign continues to build on this legacy pressing for an inclusive gender balanced Parliament.
“50:50 launched the #AskHerToStand campaign in November 2016 and succeeded in inspiring and encouraging women to stand for election and gain seats in Parliament during the 2017 election. We are holding another event in Westminster later this year to ensure that more women are encouraged to stand for Parliament. We must also as individuals continue to encourage women in our communities to stand.”