The House of Commons threw open its doors to welcome hundreds of women from across the UK to Westminster to inspire them to stand for political office. The #AskHerToStand event celebrated the centenary of the Qualification Act, which gave women and all men the right to vote and stand for election. Maria was delighted to welcome Basingstoke’s Councillor Hannah Golding who took part in inspirational workshops, talks, Prime Minister’s Questions, and to get a full first- hand picture of an MP’s day.
Taking part in the Prime Minister’s Questions on Wednesday 21 November, Maria called for more women to stand for Parliament, Maria said, “All the evidence shows that diversity delivers better decision making, yet, over the past 100 years in this place, 4,503 men have been elected and just 491 women.
I am proud that two of those Conservative women became Prime Minister, but can the Prime Minister share with me what she feels that Parliament, as well as the political parties, can do to help encourage more of the women who are with us here today as part of the Ask Her To Stand campaign actually to go forward and stand for election and join us on these Green Benches?”
The Prime Minister responded: “I thank my right hon. Friend for championing this important cause. She is absolutely right that greater diversity in this place means that we get better decisions.
Being a Member of Parliament is one of the best jobs in the world. It is an opportunity to make a real difference to people’s lives, to be a real voice for those whose voice otherwise would not be heard, and to take decisions that will lead our country forward and provide a better future for people’s children and grandchildren.
It is a great job and I encourage all the women who are here today and thinking of standing to stand for Parliament, get elected and make a difference.”
Councillor Hannah Golding said: “The event was a great opportunity to see behind the scenes of Parliament and meet inspiring women who are making sure politics works better for women in the future.”
For more information about #AskHerToStand visit https://5050parliament.co.uk/ and to watch PMQs session visit https://goo.gl/egyvpR