Oral Answers to Questions

Caroline Voaden Excerpts

Wednesday 9th October 2024 Commons Chamber

[Jo White (Bassetlaw) (Lab)]

2. What steps she is taking with Cabinet colleagues to help tackle violence against women and girls.

[Caroline Voaden (South Devon) (LD)]

8. What discussions she has had with the Secretary of State for the Home Department on violence against women and girls.

[Mike Martin (Tunbridge Wells) (LD)]

11. What discussions she has had with the Secretary of State for the Home Department on violence against women and girls.

--- Later in debate ---

[Anneliese Dodds]

I completely agree with my hon. Friend that misogyny must be tackled, and I know the whole House will want to say how deeply concerned we are to hear about her daughter’s experience. It is clear that statutory relationships, sex and health education is essential to tackling misogyny. There must be clear guidance on teaching it, which is why we are carefully considering consultation responses and evidence to ensure that new guidance meets the needs of students and teachers. The independent curriculum and assessment review will carefully consider how RSHE fits in with the wider curriculum as part of its work. We must tackle misogyny from the start. That means in schools, online and across society.

[Caroline Voaden]

Given the recent high-profile allegations of appalling abuse that many women suffered in their —[Interruption.]

[Mr Speaker]

Order. Please, the Member is asking a question. You should not walk in front of her.

[Caroline Voaden]

Given the recent high profile allegations of appalling abuse of women in their workplaces that have been all over the news, what steps are the Government planning to protect women who come forward with allegations of such abuse in future, particularly in the workplace?

[Anneliese Dodds]

I am grateful to the hon. Member for asking that incredibly important question. Many of us have been deeply concerned by some of the stories that have come to public light. We are determined as a new Government to strengthen the legal duty around sexual harassment so that employers take all reasonable steps to stop it before it starts. We will also require employers to create and maintain workplaces and working conditions free from harassment, including by third parties.