Conservative Women’s Annual AGM

On the 12th of November I attended the Conservative Women’s Organisation Conference in Westminster. It was a huge success and incredibly well attended with well over 600 women - and a few brave men!

Our morning session focused on Africa and the need to find long term solutions to Africa’s problems. We heard from an excellent panel including Baroness Chalker where the conclusion was that Trade not Aid is what’s needed.

We then heard from Zac Goldsmith on being greener and William Hague on the important role of women as peacemakers in areas of conflict. He cited Rwanda as an example of a democracy being built by women with 48% of their ministers being women.

David Cameron then joined us for the final speech which focused on our Conservative review of rape. Its astounding that of all reported cases only 5% will be convicted. Hearing David talk about the need to address this serious crime giving more support to the victim and seeing justice done was inspirational and made me very proud to be a Conservative.

Chairman Fiona Hodgson and her team did a fabulous job in putting together such a fantastic programme. It was lovely to see women of all ages represented and actively participating in policy debate. The CWO have an important role in encouraging women to get involved in politics and enabling them to stand for election.

Every member of the Conservative Party is automatically a member of the CWO and I would encourage those of you out there to contact your regional officer or local branch to get involved. I am helping to set up a new branch for the the Leicestershire Northamptonshire and Rutland area. Our first event is on the 8th December in Loughborough. For further details check out the Conservative Women’s Organisation website or click here to contact me.