Question

What assessment she has made of trends in the number of incidents of intimidation and harassment of women in public life.

No one should feel afraid to participate in our democracy. Open, fair and safe participation is crucial. However, this freedom can never be an excuse to cause harm or spread hatred, and a line is crossed when disagreement mutates into intimidation, violence or abuse.

Intimidation in public life can stop talented people, particularly women and those from minority backgrounds, from standing for public office.

All of us in public life have a responsibility to challenge and report intimidating behaviour wherever it occurs.