Oral Answers to Questions

Mary Macleod Excerpts

Thursday 16th October 2014 Commons Chamber

[Mr Vaizey]

As the hon. Gentleman knows, we have worked with internet service providers to supply free filters that can be fitted to consumers’ internet connections. They are working to put together a £25 million a year campaign called Internet Matters, but we should certainly examine the point that he raises as well.

[Mary Macleod (Brentford and Isleworth) (Con)]

The all-party group for women in Parliament produced a report a few months ago in which it examined sexism in the media. Will my hon. Friend look into that issue and work with the Minister for Women and Equalities to determine what we can do to hold the media to account?

[Mrs Grant]

My hon. Friend makes an important point and I am happy to do as she suggests.

--- Later in debate ---

[Mr Simon Burns (Chelmsford) (Con)]

6. What recent discussions she has had with the Secretary of State for the Home Department on tackling violence against women.

[Mary Macleod (Brentford and Isleworth) (Con)]

7. What recent discussions she has had with the Secretary of State for the Home Department on tackling violence against women.

--- Later in debate ---

[Nicky Morgan]

The new rape action plan will aid the Government’s drive to ensure that every report of rape is treated seriously and every victim given the help they deserve. I recently announced two new support centres, which will open in Grantham and Crawley, offering victims access to expert advice, support and counselling. That means that this Government have met their commitment to open 15 new support facilities across the country in this Parliament.

[Mary Macleod]

I recently held a London domestic abuse summit in Chiswick with the Home Secretary, and among the attendees were pupils from my local schools. Does my right hon. Friend agree that we have to involve schools in this message against domestic abuse?

[Nicky Morgan]

I entirely agree with my hon. Friend. Education is at the heart of this Government’s approach to preventing violence against women and girls. It is a topic that schools may include in personal, social, health and economic education. To further support teachers we have set up an expert group on PSHE and we are also extending funding to the PSHE Association to provide specific guidance on consent. Our prevention campaign, “This is Abuse”, encourages teenagers to rethink views about rape, consent and violence in relationships.