Women and Equalities

In the House of Commons debate, the Minister for Women and Equalities, Bridget Phillipson, outlined the government's position on several key issues. Regarding the impact of energy costs on disabled people, Phillipson acknowledged the concerns and stated that the government is working to support vulnerable customers, including by accelerating the transition to clean energy. She also highlighted ongoing discussions across government on the use of artificial intelligence and the need to ensure equity principles are integrated. In response, the official opposition, represented by Mims Davies, challenged the government's ambition to merely "halve" violence against women and girls, arguing that the total eradication of this "horrific criminality" should be the goal. Davies pointed to the previous government's £100 million strategy and initiatives to make streets safer for women and girls. The wide-ranging debate that followed covered several topics. On tackling violence against women and girls, the ministers emphasized the government's determination to strengthen legal protections, including through measures such as the introduction of buffer zones around abortion clinics and the creation of a new duty on employers to prevent sexual harassment. The discussion also touched on the need to address misogynistic attitudes and behaviors, particularly in schools and on social media. The debate also explored the government's efforts to tackle the impact of socioeconomic disadvantage on future earnings, with a focus on working closely with devolved administrations and addressing the specific challenges faced by coastal communities. The implementation of the Cass review's recommendations on gender identity services for children and young people was another key topic, with the government reiterating its commitment to implementing the review's evidence-based findings in full. The debate also covered the government's plans to support women in the workplace, including through measures to address maternity discrimination, strengthen equal pay protections, and improve access to flexible working. The discussion highlighted the importance of creating the conditions to encourage and support more women to return and progress in the workforce as part of the government's economic growth strategy. Overall, the debate demonstrated the government's focus on addressing a range of issues related to equality, women's rights, and the wellbeing of vulnerable groups, while also acknowledging the need for continued collaboration and action across government and with devolved administrations.