We aim to
Promote understanding of the protected characteristic of ‘sex’, as defined by the Equality Act and as stated in the Preamble to the Liberal Democrat Constitution
Research and develop pro-women campaigns, policies, events and conference motions
Ensure that any Lib Dem policies that undermine or compromise women’s rights receive appropriate scrutiny and opposition
Seek to ensure that the Liberal Democrats remains a home for open, respectful debate about issues that affect women
We believe
We endorse the Preamble to the Liberal Democrat Constitution and emphasise the statement: ‘We reject all prejudice and discrimination based upon…sex or sexual orientation and oppose all forms of entrenched privilege and inequality.’
Women and girls are female and, as such, have distinct needs and interests. Only by basing policy in such biological reality can women maintain their rights and combat sexism.
We also emphasise: ‘The Liberal Democrats exist to build and safeguard a fair, free and open society, in which no one shall be enslaved by poverty, ignorance or conformity. We champion the freedom, dignity and well-being of individuals, we acknowledge and respect their right to freedom of conscience…’
We are committed to open, transparent debate and an evidence-based approach to pro-women policy-making that takes all angles and perspectives into account.
We commend the attempts by the Campaign for Gender Balance to support and encourage women to advance within the party and within politics. But we also note that this is only half the battle. If female representation in parliament is to translate to proper representation for the most vulnerable women and girls in society, then there must be an expectation that our politicians defend their interests sincerely and courageously.