‘Family friendly’ and ‘inclusive’ aren’t words often associated with the Houses of Parliament or UK democracy. But the Covid-19 pandemic and the move to virtual proceedings have proved to be a giant leap forward for our elected representatives.
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Whether it’s a blood-red study, attention seeking pets or curious toddlers, it’s unexpectedly achieved a welcome change in public perceptions. Our MPs are now seen as less remote and removed, facing the same challenges as families everywhere.
However, in 2021, just 34% of MPs are women, 10% are Black, Asian, or Minority Ethnic and less than 1% are disabled. Arcane and anti-social parliamentary working practices, as well as the glacially slow recognition of the need for parental leave, remain major barriers to women’s involvement in political life.
When given the option of some flexibility we have seen how much it is appreciated, particularly by women.
Allowing more flexibility in the way Parliament operates long-term would open the doors to a more diverse range of people who want to take an active part in our political life. This is needed, not just because it is the fairest way to proceed, but because the quality of policies developed will be so much better when a wider range of views are considered.
Parliament has been given a once in a generation opportunity to bring the House into the 21st century. We are calling on our parliamentary authorities to think of the long-term gains for UK democracy and seize the moment.