We wrote to Richard Tice MP, Deputy Leader of Reform UK. See below for the text of the letter:
Dear Mr Tice
I am writing to you on behalf of Centenary Action, a cross-party coalition that I helped to found and currently convene, dedicated to achieving a gender equal Parliament by 2028 – the centenary of all women gaining the right to vote. This aim is supported by all other parties with seats in Parliament, and we would welcome both your personal backing and that of Reform UK for this mission.
You will be aware that women are currently underrepresented in the House of Commons, constituting 40% of all MPs. Your own party does not have any female representation in Parliament. As someone who I know has an interest in trust and democracy, I’m sure you will agree that this matters.
For any party that seeks to speak for the general public, ensuring a representative range of voices is essential. Women make up over half of the population, yet they remain underrepresented in many areas of political and public life. If Reform UK is to be a serious contender in future elections, it must demonstrate that it is a party for all.
Having women MPs is not just about fairness; it strengthens political debate, policy-making, and voter engagement. Women bring different perspectives on critical issues such as the economy, healthcare, education, family policy, and crime – areas that affect everyone. Studies have also shown that when political institutions are more representative, they gain greater public trust and legitimacy.
I hope to see a clear commitment from Reform UK to delivering fair representation that includes strong female voices at every level and would request that you give formal backing to our aim of a gender equal Parliament by 2028.
I urge you to take proactive steps to recruit, support, and promote female candidates in your party and in upcoming elections. This could involve mentorship schemes, outreach to talented women across different sectors and ensuring that internal party structures do not inadvertently disadvantage female candidates.
As my Great Grandmother Emmeline said: “You must make women count as much as men.”
We would be happy to discuss this further with you, or any of your colleagues.
We will publish this letter and your reply.
I look forward to your response.
Helen
Helen Pankhurst
Convenor, Centenary Action
cc Zia Yusuf, Party Chairman