Ms Abena Oppong-Asare

Ms Abena Oppong-Asare

Labour — Erith and Thamesmead

Speaking in the House of Commons on 14 November 2024

Debate

Lords Spiritual (Women) Act 2015 (Extension) Bill [Lords]

Contribution

My hon. Friend is absolutely right to raise the importance of female representation, particularly in the Church. The long history of women’s progress in this country teaches us one thing: it cannot be left to chance. That is why it is so important that we pass this Bill. Women must organise and keep up the pressure, and institutions must change. Our Parliament must also change; between 1918 and 2024, only 693 women have been elected as Members of this House. The hon. Member for Richmond Park mentioned female representation in Parliament. As of July 2024, there are 263 women in this House, the highest ever number. Female representation is at an all-time high of 40%, yet even now, we still need progress to be truly reflective of our society.

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