International Women’s Day
- ashlingwilliams
- Apr 3
- 2 min read
On International Women’s Day, we reflect on how far we have come and the work still ahead. As the fifth consecutive female MP to represent Falmouth since Candy Atherton in 1997, I’m proud to serve my constituency. Before the 2024 election, only 564 women had ever been elected to the UK Parliament. Now, within this Government, 40% of the chamber is women, a significant step forward.
During the International Women’s Day debate, Jess Phillips read the names of women killed by men in the UK. The length of the list is deeply upsetting, but these women must be named in Hansard; their stories are a powerful reminder of the lessons we must learn and the challenges we face.
Women still lack basic rights around the world, and this government is committed to reducing violence against women and girls by half over the next decade, treating it as a national emergency under the Safer Streets mission.
Here are some of the steps we are taking:
New Domestic Abuse Protections: Domestic Abuse Protection Notices (DAPNs) and Orders (DAPOs) address all forms of abuse, including coercive behaviour, empowering police and courts with stronger powers to tackle perpetrators.
Serious Consequences for Violations: Breaching a DAPO is a criminal offence, punishable by up to 5 years in prison, a fine, or both.
Support for Victims: The Victims and Prisoners Act requires local commissioners to identify and address gaps in support for victims of domestic abuse, including accommodation-based assistance.
Tackling Online Abuse: £27m of government funding will help combat online violence against women through the Safe Online project, supporting survivors, gathering data, and reducing exposure to harmful content.
Let’s ensure the next generation of women is safe, seen, heard, and empowered to take their rightful place in all areas of life, including politics.
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