Question

To ask the Secretary of State for Women and Equalities, what plans the Government has to use the centenary of the Parliament (Qualification of Women) Act 1918 to encourage more women to stand for public office.

The Government Equalities Office is providing financial assistance to ensure every MP in this House can invite a woman constituent to parliament for the day. Campaign group 50:50 Parliament’s #AskHerToStand event asks MPs to mentor a woman from their constituency for the day.

The Government Equalities Office is also hosting a conference to celebrate the centenary of the Parliament (Qualification of Women) Act on 21 November 2018. The conference will celebrate and learn from women law-makers who have made a difference to the country.

The women attending have been involved in the Suffrage Centenary year including grant recipients, grassroots groups, gender equality organisations, and aspiring politicians.